Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

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Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Commercial Market

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A parcel of fully leased freestanding buildings with duel frontage including the prestigious Forest Road in Hurstville is up for sale.
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-hurstville-501968474" target="_blank">The commercial buildings</a> go to auction June 17 through Gunning Real Estate who expect a passive investor to have the winning bid.
The properties including international hotpot franchise Simmer Huang Hurstville, Eden Espresso Bar, gift shop EI Goods and Tongzhou Yoga studio.
Gunning associate director James McKenny said the 432.9 sqm site which has a combined building area of circa 577 sqm is perfectly located.
“It is a trophy location and ticks all the boxes with its position close to key infrastructure and strong customer foot traffic,” he said.
 
“Forest Road buildings are prized assets and rarely change hands.
He also said that it is a perfect deal for an investor.
"With an excellent mix of established tenants, coupled with its excellent position and potential this is the ideal investment opportunity."
“Investors can benefit in the short term from a secure income stream from the established tenants with an average weighted lease expiry of three years.
“With interest rates at record lows and development in strategic centers continuing to boom this will see the property continue to experience strong future growth in rents and capital values."
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Dual frontage Hurstville retail space hits the market

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Rents drive values in the retail sector, valuers Herron Todd White has noted.
"If your investment remains vacant, or is tied up under an unrealistic lease, the value of the asset is under threat.
"Understanding what’s driving rents, and where your holding sits within this market, becomes imperative to ensuring you’ve got your portfolio heading in the right direction.
NSW has two regions -- Central Coast and South East NSW -- that are at the peak of market in valuation firm Herron Todd White's retail clock for last month, May -- a simple broad means of suggesting where property prices are and which direction they are headed. 
<a href="/images/2016/06/08/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-08%20at%2012.48.53%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/06/08/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-08%20at%2012.48.53%20PM.png" alt="">
The report give a location-by-location analysis of rental markets, as well as some predictions on where they’re set to head.
Sydney
The retail market in Sydney has been strong over the past 12 months with increased demand from investors, increases in rental rates and lower vacancy rates.
Generally rents look likely to remain stable this year with evidence that increases in prime locations are probable.
The Sydney CBD continues to experience strong demand from local and international fashion retailers. The lack of available space has resulted in some rental growth. Smaller retail premises such as those suitable for cafes are also in demand, with rental rates showing signs of upward pressure. Recent examples indicate some small retail shops are now paying over $4,000 per square metre gross. Average rates tend to sit around $2,000 per square metre for conventional space. The demand is in part driven by increased tourism due to the low Australian dollar. Tourism generally increases demand for prime retail space.
Suburban strips have undergone a revival to some extent with increased demand driving up rental rates, particularly in areas renowned for food and beverage outlets, cafes and restaurants. Some pockets of fashion remain popular in suburban areas although retailers generally favour shopping centres. Suburban rental rates along prime strips such as Newtown, Balmain and Surry Hills are generally above $1,000 per square metre gross for well positioned, well exposed retail premises.
Discounting or decline of retail rental rates seems to be restricted to suburban strata lots. The increase in mixed use development across the Sydney metro area has increased supply. Rates here are typically negotiated on a weekly basis with incentives used to attract tenants.
The outlook for retail rental rates is positive with 2016 looking to be a year of further growth in rental values, particularly among prime locations where supply is limited.
Overall, the retail market in Sydney looks set to continue its pattern of growth for the rest of year. Demand continues, supply is limited and with low interest rates, investors are keen to secure properties with strong lease covenants. All these factors are likely to contribute to another steady year for the retail sector. 
Illawarra
Rents within the local retail property market continue to remain flat with little upward pressure due to the amount of supply and an evolving industry that continues to be impacted by online retailing and rapidly changing consumer demands.
In the Wollongong CBD, demand is mostly from local food and beverage retailers with the emergence of numerous cafes, small bars and restaurants over the years as part of a push by Wollongong City Council to activate the CBD and encourage the evening and night time economy. The number of residential unit developments taking place in the CBD should improve trading conditions for these retailers once these projects are completed. Crown Street Mall is yet to fully recover from the opening of GPT’s West Keira shopping centre and refurbishment works with a medium level of vacancies and softening rents. This precinct has seen a number of service and commercial businesses take space replacing traditional clothing and fashion retailers.
The variation in rents between prime and secondary retail tenancies remains high and this is expected to continue in the foreseeable future. Incentives remain common (10% to 20%) and letting up periods (three months to 12 months) have remained relatively consistent. In broader terms, market conditions are still skewed in favour of tenants.
Newcastle
Retail rents in the inner city of Newcastle are hot in a few localities around the city. The Boardwalk within the Honeysuckle precinct remains the most highly sought after retail precinct and consequently, the rental rates are the highest in the city on average on a rate per square metre basis. The older, more established eat street precincts along Darby Street, Cooks Hill and Beaumont Street, Hamilton are slightly secondary to Honeysuckle and while still very popular and with very low levels of vacancy, rental rates are lower on average than The Boardwalk. We should note that the Hunter Street Mall continues to reflect poor market fundamentals and high vacancy rates. Rental rates along this strip are low and have been falling for many years, though the decline in rents has slowed in recent years.
Suburban retail precincts that are secondary to these three primary retail localities obviously will show lower rental figures. There are a number of factors at play here, including local trade and demographic features and proximity to schools and regional shopping centres.
A strong secondary retail trade area is the Warners Bay precinct along The Esplanade which is adjacent to Lake Macquarie.
Our research indicates a nominal discount of 25% to 30% in the Lakeside Warners Bay retail precinct from the prime retail harbour side Honeysuckle precinct. This discount is considered typical in the market place for a strong secondary retail precinct. These rental rates are far stronger than say the Hunter Street Mall in the CBD for example.
Generally retail rents have been stagnant or even declining in secondary retail localities, while the prime spots are showing moderate rental growth due primarily to consistently low vacancy rates. This trend is expected to continue in the short term. 
NSW North Coast
Anecdotal evidence is that the retail sector remains in a state of flux with reduced sales and strong competition between retailers within market segments. The broader market is inconsistent with premium locations being well held with limited vacancies and static rents. Secondary locations are harder to lease with downward pressure on rents and lease incentives prevalent.
Ballina
Ballina CBD has experienced falls in retail rents from previous levels of $275 to $350 per square metre. Some recent leases have resulted in rents in the vicinity of $190 to $275 per square metre.
Lismore
Prime retail locations of Lismore previously would have achieved $290 to $350 per square metre. More recent evidence indicates $240 to $325 per square metre.
An example of this is 146 Molesworth Street, Lismore which was leased for $287 per square metre in 2010 and achieved $241 per square metre in 2015.
In secondary locations in Lismore, the fall has been less dramatic with rents expected to range from $90 to $175 per square metre.
Byron Bay
The exception to these broader observations is Byron Bay. Agents are reporting strong market interest from potential tenants with limited supply and upward pressure on rents. Agents are even reporting key money being paid to secure superior retail locations. At times this comes in the form of buying an existing business to secure the site. Byron Bay retail rents tend to be within the vicinity of $1,000 to $1,500 per square metre in premium locations, $700 to $1,000 per square metre for good locations and $400 to $600 per square metre for secondary locations. 
 
 
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

NSW prime retail sites to grow, tough for rest in 2016: HTW retail clock

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A booming population growth and an increasing development pipeline is pushing the commercial centre of Parramatta close to capacity.
CBRE Western Sydney agent Thomas Mosca said Liverpool was positioned to become the future capital of Sydney’s south-west amid a spate of new projects in the area, sustained population growth and low unemployment levels. 
“The current rate of growth in Sydney’s south-west is unsustainable," he said.
"We’re already seeing Parramatta experiencing extremely tight vacancy levels in the A-grade market, while future development potential enabling business growth looks limited." 
Mosca said Liverpool was on the cusp of a major transformation, with the next decade expected to see it accompany Parramatta as one of Sydney’s largest CBDs. 
“Currently, approximately 75% of Liverpool’s residents leave the area for work each day, which demonstrates the importance of cementing it as the commercial centre of Sydney’s south-west."
“While offering a plethora of opportunity, Liverpool is currently vastly underserviced. Liverpool needs more jobs for its residents – more commitment from government and large organisations.” 
He said that Liverpool offers a large development pipeline, healthy employment prospects and excellent transport connectivity and have an established and growing population.
Development is already underway across the Liverpool area, with a current supply pipeline of 16,000sqm for 2016, including several commitments from universities, local government and multi-national organisations. 
One of the newest developments underway is the Brydens law building at 100 Macquarie Street – and in immediate proximity to the Westfield shopping centre. 
The property, which is currently under construction, is already 100% committed, with Western Sydney University a major tenant in the 7200sqm A-grade building, after inking a lease on three floors, with potential for a fourth floor. 
Mosca said that due to the shortage of premium grade space in the area, Brydens law building was overwhelming.
He went on to suggest that the mooted extension of the metropolitan train line would further position Liverpool as the powerhouse of Sydney’s south-west. 
“Liverpool has the potential to become the region’s major transport interchange, with a number of proposed works set to make it one of the most connected and accessible suburbs in the south-west." 
Proposed transport works include the extension of the metropolitan line from Bankstown to Liverpool, making it just 35 minutes travel from Liverpool to the Sydney CBD; four train tracks at the new Badgerys Creek Airport –  enabling connections to areas like Leppington, Austral, Carnes Hill and Edmondson Park.
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Liverpool spotlight in Sydney's rapidly growing south-west commercial arena

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With elections announced for July 2, domestic gripes are back and Australians are facing a few weeks of spin from polarised think tanks, economists and shock jocks, according to Rita Avdiev, managing director of the Avdiev Group.
In Oz, the economic divide is between the healthy service sector economies in the East and the hard yakka states where falling commodity prices bring rising unemployment and property value collapse. 
The property bubble
"It’s back, the slow leak mended by the Reserve Bank," she writes in a post on avdiev.com.au.
The RBA has dropped interest rates to a new low, great for borrowers, especially negatively geared investors, but another blow for self-funded retirees. What will be the unintended consequences on investor behaviour? What impact on welfare needs?
The negative gearing debate is continuing. Removing it was tried and abandoned in the mid-1980s, but that was too long ago for the lessons of history to be remembered. The current government intends to keep it. 
According to Rita Avdiev, it was a win for the property industry which has been the stand out performer of the Oz economy.
"We’ve done well in the pay stakes too. Salary rises in other markets have been low to negligible, property is well ahead."
Although the 2016 Avdiev Property Industry Report findings show a 3% median rise overall, under the surface there are stand out market sectors where shortages are severe and the attraction and retention strategies aggressive. Contributors reported massive pay increases and forecasts in development and building companies, for development managers, project managers and architects with 3-D modelling software skills, all in short supply.  
There’s been lots of action at the top of the property food chain – the major listed property funds, she says. Profits are up, foreign investment continues. Amalgamations, joint ventures and a spectacular but unsuccessful takeover attempt has resulted in resignations and renewal in the senior echelons of both companies. 
Commercial property is doing well, spare space capacity is being absorbed, especially in Sydney. 
Retail is softening - unseasonal weather, consumer sentiment and sluggish sales impact on rents and yields. Regulation, the availability of local finance and a potential slowdown of foreign funds are a worry for developers, especially for the seasoned ones who have seen it all before.  But hope springs eternal for the young ones, they are joint venturing with their sources of capital and looking ahead.
Real Estate has been super busy, at the big end of the property market, and in residential as well. But listing on the stock market is a brave move and does not guarantee success, even if it’s a large franchised residential network and a well known brand name. Time will tell.
The built environment consultants in the active market sectors of property are doing well, but a recent study of business conditions for architects in South Australia tells a tale of woe – fee cutting, low salaries, not enough work. They are not unique, similar conditions exist in other states too, depending on opportunity, specialisations and feral tendering competition.
The Sydney v Melbourne rivalry is still on, she writes.
Both are magnets for foreign investment, both have a healthy economy, dysfunctional planning controls, and infrastructure and transport problems. But the solutions are very different. The NSW government will fund a second harbour rail crossing. Victoria, having abandoned the East West road link at the cost of $1.1 billion, is now focused on removing road and rail level crossings which should have gone a long time ago. What will living next to overhead rail do for the residents of the world’s most liveable city? Shades of Chicago? NSW has completed a review of planning regulations – the latest of how many? What’s the next step? The Victorian Planning Minister has stopped reviewing and started making decisions to allow large CBD developments with foreign funding proceed.
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Commercial property doing well, retail softening, but property still standout of Oz economy: Avdiev 

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An international campaign is being launched to find a tenant for a store in Melbourne CBD's upmarket Collins Street.
The 85 Collins Street store offers 400 sqm of retail space in the Athenaeum Club’s landmark city premises. Its neighbours include retail heavyweights Prada and Hermes and is directly opposite Cartier and Christian Louboutin.
CBRE's Zelman Ainsworth will be handling the leasing, said a media release.
The CBRE Melbourne team will work with CBRE’s offices in the US, Hong Kong and Europe to present the opportunity to luxury retailers around the world.
Ainsworth said the shop’s location in the city’s sought after retail pocket was expected to underpin significant global retailer interest.
“Overwhelming interest from international retailers seeking to secure space within this block of Collins Street has spurred the club’s decision to launch an on market campaign.”
Charter Keck Cramer’s national director Steve Kingston is advising the Athenaeum Club, one of Australia’s oldest clubs and a proud resident of Collins Street since 1868.  
The opportunity has arisen because of the impending expiry of existing leases to two separate tenants - Rolex and Ashley Opal Jewellers.
“Australia has been a top performer for international retailers in the past five years, with strong sales and a buoyant Asian tourism market being two of the key attractions for luxury brands seeking flagship retail space,” Ainsworth said.
The campaign at the Athenaeum Club coincides with news that a freehold office and retail building at 10-12 Collins Street, which has been on the market since earlier in the year, has been scheduled for a boardroom auction. The auction will be handled by the CBRE's Josh Rutman, Mark Wizel and Kiran Pillai.
Rutman said the building provides a terrific opportunity to invest passively, owner occupier or convert to residential or hotel accommodation, subject to relevant approvals.
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Athenaeum Club tempts global retailers with prized Collins St offering 

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Actor Ada Nicodemou and her brother Costa have sold their Potts Point retail investment.
It was sold at $1.3 million by the the Home and Away actor and her sibling.
They have owned the 54-square-metre property since 2001 when they purchased it for $600,000 on Macleay Street.
It is leased by Toni&amp;Guy Hairdressing.
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Potts Point retail space sold by Ada Nicodemou

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The Ballarto Village Shopping Centre Site in Melbourne's Cranbourne East is on the market on behalf of a private family.
The 21,185sqm site, 2 Adrian Street in Cranbourne East, is on the market through Colliers International’s Tom Noonan, Tim McIntosh and Hamish Burgess and is n the corner of Ballarto Road and Adrian Street - two major thoroughfares in the approved Cranbourne East Precinct Structure Plan.
Colliers International’s Tom Noonan said Ballarto Village Shopping Centre will be the only supermarket-anchored centre in the main trade area. 
The site comes with an approved Urban Design Framework (UDF) that incorporates a strategic mix of retail, commercial and residential uses.
Expressions of interest close Thursday June 2, 2016 at 2pm.
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Cranbourne East shopping centre site listed

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East Coast industrial vacancies have risen for the first time in a year, driven by a 6.2 percent increase in Melbourne, although Sydney and Brisbane recorded small declines over the quarter, according to the latest Industrial Vacancy Analysis research report by Knight Frank.
The total industrial vacancy on the East Coast currently sits at 2.19 million square metres, with a 2.3 per cent increase recorded over the past quarter. However, total vacancy fell by 8.3 percent over the past year, with Sydney driving this result, down a staggering 39 per cent over the year to April 2016.
Sydney was the standout market over the past year, recording a two per cent fall in vacancy over the past quarter to 482,820 square metres, said Knight Frank’s Group director of Research &amp; Consulting, Matt Whitby. 
Over the past year, however, vacancies have fallen from a peak of 807,485 square metres in January 2015.
“Sydney has seen a steady upward trend in leasing deal volumes, resulting in above-average stock take up for the past nine consecutive quarters. This is a result of a number of factors, including increased economic activity, particularly in the household goods and construction sectors, and high demand in the Sydney area due to the development of key infrastructure projects. However it is also due to large institutional owners moving tenants among portfolio assets,” he said.
Brisbane recorded a fall in vacancy for the third consecutive quarter, down by nine per cent since the recent peak in mid-2015, taking the total to 636,288 square metres. “Despite the recent improvement, the vacancy remains 51 per cent above the long-term average and tenant demand is still patchy. However, the vacancy level within existing assets should continue to decrease with tenants having the opportunity to upgrade their accommodation at lease end on competitive terms.”
“The Melbourne market continued its recent steady growth in vacancies, with a 6.2 per cent increase recorded over the past quarter to over a million square metres now available (1,074,788 square metres). This increase was dominated by prime stock (up 16 per cent), as secondary vacancy actually fell by two per cent over the quarter,” Whitby said. 
According to Whitby, although the level of vacant industrial space across the Australian East Coast market rose modestly over the past quarter, both prime and secondary vacancy fell over the past year, down by seven percent and nine percent respectively.
“Despite prime stock being highly in demand by industrial occupiers, given it is new and able to be tailored to individual businesses’ needs, the proportion of prime stock available now outweighs secondary stock across the East Coast.
“The key factors are due to current market conditions – cost-conscious occupiers are looking towards secondary stock. In addition, the emergence of new stock on the market has driven up availability.”
According to Whitby, “As at April 2016, the proportion of total vacancies made up of prime stock is now 53 per cent of East Coast industrial vacancies, up from 45 percent two years ago, and 37 percent three years ago.”
Whitby said that the preference in the market for prime space is clear to see, with 59 percent of take-up recorded being within prime accommodation over the 12 months to April 2016. The greatest bias to prime absorption was seen within the Sydney and Brisbane markets where 71 percent and 60 percent respectively of the annual take-up was prime space. In Melbourne, prime space accounted for only 48 per cent of take-up over the 12 months to April 2016.
Knight Frank’s head of Industrial, Greg Russell, said that following a softer pipeline of speculative stock over the past year, the April quarter saw the level of speculative stock available increase by 12 percent across the Australian East Coast market. 
“The interesting statistic this quarter, is that the level of speculative stock under construction has jumped 17 percent over the past quarter and more than doubled over the past year, from 53,500 square metres to 108,000 square metres currently, however, the speculative space completed but remaining vacant fell 31 per cent over the past year to 113,719 square metres.” 
“This has been predominantly driven by an increase in take-up for completed speculative product, coupled with new speculative commencements, as confidence returns in the markets, particularly in Sydney.
“The major institutional developers still have a healthy pipeline for further speculative development, and it will only take a few commitments to really see the speculative construction levels spike later this year and into 2017.”
Russell added that while the level of larger vacant options has been increasing in Melbourne, they have fallen in Sydney and Brisbane. The general trend towards upgrading accommodation by tenants means that prime, larger options will continue to attract solid demand and hence take-up. In Sydney, there are only eight prime opportunities above 10,000 square metres (down from 15 a year ago), while 23 over 10,000 square metres exist in Melbourne (up from 14 options a year ago), and there are 11 prime vacancies above 8,000 square metres in Brisbane (compared to 11 a year ago).
<a href="/images/2016/05/16/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-16%20at%2011.07.43%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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Brisbane
In Brisbane’s industrial sector (3,000 sqm+), total vacant space during the first quarter of 2016 fell by slightly to 636,288 square metres, but was down 6.4 per cent from a year ago (680,151 square metres).
Knight Frank’s joint head of Industrial Queensland, Mark Clifford and Chris Wright said, “The pre-lease market has been quite active and has contributed to the slow reduction in the vacancy levels. A flight to quality is evident and will continue whilst aggressive leasing deals are on offer.
“Pre-committed new construction is expected to provide further backfill vacant space over the course of 2016 with Beaumont Tiles, Couriers Please, Lindsay Bros Transport and OI all expected to make significant relocations during the year.
“We believe a series of imminent commitments will provide a solid boost to the leasing market. Tenants 6,000 square metres plus with a sufficient lead time will continue to be attracted to new construction as the low yield environment for long WALE assets supports construction at relatively lower rental levels."
Sydney
In Sydney’s industrial sector (5,000 sqm+), solid leasing activity has underpinned a decline in total vacant space, reducing 1.9 per cent during the first quarter of 2016 to 482,820 sqm.
Tim Armstrong, head of Industrial, NSW said, “Sydney’s industrial vacancies are now at a series low, which was the result of above average gross take up which measured 190,337m² over the past quarter, 35 per cent above the series average.
“Recent leasing demand has been primarily driven by 3PL groups as businesses continue to outsource logistic functions; however, there have been increased enquiry levels from pharmaceutical/medical operators in recent months.”
In terms of location, the Outer West continues to underpin leasing demand, accounting for 44 per cent of gross take-up over the first quarter of 2016 as four 10,000 sqm+ options were leased. However, a number of large backfill leasing options are starting to come back onto the market including the DHL backfill space at 227 Walters Road, Arndell Park which will partly offset above average leasing demand.
“While a number of speculative developments have been added to vacant stock levels over the past quarter, the reality is they aren’t remaining vacant for too long. In the first quarter of 2016, 25,442 sqm of under construction speculative stock was leased, highlighting the drive for operational efficiencies and demand for modern stock. Currently, unleased speculative stock measures 59,602 sqm, all of which is under construction with no vacant completed speculative stock available," said Armstrong.
“The generally positive outlook for the NSW economy is expected to see a continuation of solid leasing activity, particularly as there are a number of large briefs in the market which should crystallise into gross absorption throughout 2016,” said Armstrong.
<a href="/images/2016/05/16/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-16%20at%2011.10.18%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/05/16/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-16%20at%2011.10.18%20AM.png" alt="" width="720" height="481">
Melbourne
Knight Frank’s senior director, head of Industrial Victoria, Gab Pascuzzi, said the impact of the upcoming closure of the automotive manufacturing and supply industry will start to come into fruition at the end of 2016. “To date this has had minimal impact on the industrial market, however we anticipate this will put increased pressure on vacancy rates across traditional industrial locations in 2017; predominantly across lower-grade secondary stock.
“Over the past 12 months, we have seen an increase in pre-commitment activity across Melbourne. Given the shortage of prime existing options in the market combined with increased tenant demand, we anticipate prime backfill space from the likes of Target and The Reject shop coming to the market later this year will be will be absorbed quickly.”
According to Pascuzzi, “The south-east region recorded the highest level of leasing activity since Q1 2010, totalling 70,995 square metres. However, we are seeing pressure in the market with a lack of large existing options notably in the West, with just two vacant stock options above 20,000 square metres.”
<a href="/images/2016/05/16/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-16%20at%2011.12.47%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/05/16/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-16%20at%2011.12.47%20AM.png" alt="" width="760" height="504">
Perth
In Perth’s industrial sector (2,000sqm+), vacant industrial space in Perth increased by 16 per cent over the past quarter to 647,746 square metres, a series high.
Knight Frank’s senior director, head of Industrial WA, Jarrad Grierson, said Perth’s industrial market continued to be affected by the slowdown in the resources sector and relatively low market confidence with escalating levels of vacant space in the market.
“The Perth industrial market has a high correlation with the resources sector where companies are currently sitting idle or downsizing, triggering downward pressure on rental rates. Some businesses are taking advantage of the softer market conditions and looking to upgrade into better quality accommodation in a better location.
“Vacancy in secondary-grade buildings increased by 22 per cent over the past quarter and almost doubled over the past year and now accounts for 76 per cent of total stock. This is in stark contrast to the prime market, where vacancy was unchanged over the past quarter and actually fell by 24 per cent over the year.
“There continues to be a demand for sublease space in the market as these properties offer competitive rents and incentives in order to replace tenants. Activity in the market is also evident from pre-leasing activity that has occurred in the last 12-24 months.
“The market had 200,000 square metres of newly developed pre-lease space come on line, including a 42,000 square metres warehouse pre-leased to K-Mart in Jandakot in February. Moving forward this will continue to impact the level of backfill space once occupiers relocate into new industrial space,” concluded Grierson. 
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East Coast industrial vacancies rise for the first time in a year: Knight Frank

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A heritage building in Melbourne's Oakleigh has sold for $1.5 million to a local investor in a deal brokered by CBRE.
Located at 1527 Dandenong Road, the 369 sqm corner property was originally occupied by ES&amp;A Bank, built during the inter-war period.
The building’s red-brick façade and original bank vault was impacted with a heritage overlay, affecting the development potential of the corner site.
The sale price represented a land rate of $4,065 per sqm. The property is zoned commercial 1. 
The selling agents were CBRE’s Ed Wright, Sandro Peluso and Chao Zhang. 
“Despite the site’s development restrictions given the heritage building and lack of permits, the campaign still received strong interest due to the current investor confidence in the Melbourne market,” said Zhang.
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Heritage building in Melbourne's Oakleigh sells for $1.5 million

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The central NSW district of Narromine and Trangie have and a substantial increase in farmer to farmer sales due to what is described by HTW as good quality dry land cultivation country.
HTW cited the sale of Grainswood North as one such example. 
"This property is located 50 kilometres south-west of Narromine and is a 600 hectare open farming block with red brown and grey loam soils and sold under the hammer for just over $1.2 million," HTW said. 
"There were limited improvements and on an overall basis this equates to $2,042 per hectare or $826 per acre. The adjoining property Grainswood was also put to auction and was passed in however sold soon after at an undisclosed amount believed to be around the $1.5 million mark. This property is 826 hectares in size and at $1.5 million equates to approximately $1,815 per hectare overall.  
"This property included approximately 680 hectares of farming country with the balance open grazing. Both of these sales would be considered strong and indicate a strengthening of the underlying dry land cultivation values of approximately 15 percent over the past 12 to 18 months."
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