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

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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dogs

New South Wales has finally ended blanket bans on pets in apartments, following in the footsteps of Queensland and the ACT.

Victoria made some progress last year, although not to the same extent with reforms preventing landlords from unreasonably restricting pets. The Northern Territory is following suit.

South Australia has pet agreements, required for any lease, allowing pets with ground rules in place for property maintenance and management.

Western Australia has a $260 pet bond, to be taken when a pet is named on the lease for fumigation at vacancy, Tasmania has a similar system albeit without the bond.

The NSW&rsquo;s reforms are related to strata title, as until these changes, most strata titles included a blanket pet ban. Historically NSW has had the most complex regulations surrounding pets and strata.&nbsp;

Now instead of strata laws, it&rsquo;s owners corporations and landlords. The NSW government has said they can still refuse to keep an animal if there is &ldquo;repeated damage of the common property, menacing behaviour, persistent noise and odour.&rdquo;

Owners corporations will also have the right to set conditions about how pets are kept, such as requiring supervision on common property or while entering and exiting an entrance or lift.

The government says these conditions must be &ldquo;reasonable&rdquo;, but there are currently NO guidelines.

Some actions such as restricting the size of a home&#39;s pet, not uncommon in the past, were found in a report prepared as part of the NSW legislation review to be unreasonable. However, this is not specified in the law that was passed.

Close to 2.5 million Australians are living in apartments and a third of Australian households rent their homes. So with the number of renter&rsquo;s rising in the wake of property prices continuing to outpace wage growth, there is a need for consistent, equitable and pet-supportive housing rental policies across the country.

With such inconsistencies across Australia, and changes only finally occurring in the past 2-3 years, there is a lot of uncertainty for renters and pets often become the victim, as more than 60% of households include a pet.

Pets are part of the family, and this he been demonstrated over and over, especially during lockdown with mental health studies and surveys demonstrating the benefits of an animal on mental health

Dogs are the best examples of this, shown to increase daily exercise across all age groups.

There are even benefits for landlords, with US research suggesting that households with pets stayed in rental properties longer than those that did not have pets. This brings longer-term, more secure rent to property owners.&nbsp;

In spite of this as recently as 2018/19 pet bans have been sweeping and widespread in many rental properties, apartment buildings in particular are the biggest offender.&nbsp;

Emma Power of WSU during a 2016 survey found,&rdquo; that pet ownership can trigger feelings of housing insecurity for Sydney&rsquo;s renter households.&rdquo;

Roughly half of those surveyed who declared their pets when they applied for properties had been given pet ownership as the reason their application was rejected.

Mrs Powers said, these figures are likely to represent only a small proportion of those who have been rejected for pet ownership as reasons for rejection are rarely provided.

Most doggedly concerned landlords are simply barking up the wrong tree with many studies showing that the majority of landlords who worried about pets had zero first hand experience with such problems. Even when damage occurred it was significantly less than the average deposit, or pet-bond.

jordan_55689

Barking up the right tree: A guide to renting with pets in Australia

Our furry friends are finally starting to get a say in whether they can stay in a strata apartment or not.

New laws have been introduced to make it easier than ever to have a&nbsp;pet&nbsp;in your apartment.

But beyond that, there are developments that welcome pets&nbsp;with open arms and even facilitate pet living and lifestyles.

Here are seven&nbsp;stunning Sydney&nbsp;apartments which welcome your dogs:

1. Beyond, Hurstville 
Address: 93 Forest Road, Hurstville NSW 2220 
Two-bedroom apartments from $850,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6798]

Beyond Hurstville is the latest project from the design-minded developer Fridcorp.

The $700 million project at 93 Forest Road, Hurstville in Sydney&#39;s south-west has 563 apartments across four towers and is set to be one of the best mixed-use developments in the suburb.

The development features a raised podium complete with a gym, yoga studio, sauna, tai chi meditation deck, community garden and a communal sports court.

Residents will be able to reserve spaces using the Beyond community mobile phone application, as well as access a virtual concierge, book a dog walking service or a personal training session.

2. Bloom Arncliffe 
Address: 213 Princes Highway, Arncliffe NSW 2205 
Two-bedroom apartments from $710,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201]

The recently completed Bloom Arncliffe, delivered by developer Wingate, offers one, two and three bedroom ready-to-move-in apartments, perfect for the eager first-time owner, the smart investor and the dynamic urban-dweller.

Dispersed over seven state-of-the-art buildings designed by Stephen Bower Architects, ranging from standard apartments to penthouses, every Bloom residence holds sweeping city views.

Exercise outside at the extremely walkable Gardiner Park or New Arncliffe Park, perfect for dogs.

3.&nbsp;Allium, Pagewood 
Address: 128 Bunnerong Road, Pagewood NSW 2035 
Two-bedroom apartments from $815,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7822]

Part of the master-planned Pagewood Green community, Allium offers 487 grand residences over four towers.

Developed by Meriton, the homes offer a unique opportunity to enjoy Sydney&rsquo;s eastern suburbs in a park-like community.

The residences are designed by SJB and feature fifth-floor podium gardens, an outdoor cinema and sensational vistas across the city, golf course and surrounding parklands.

4. Park Sydney, Erskineville 
Address: 149-163 Mitchell Road, Erskineville NSW 2043 
Three-bedroom apartments from $1,711,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5811]

One of the most significant new residential development Sydney-wide, Park Sydney offers considered design and communal amenities to families looking for a community feel and established neighbourhood.

Boasting an unbeatable location, the development is located just four-kilometres from the Sydney CBD and an easy walk to Erskineville Station. Close to top universities, major employment hubs and elite schools, such as Newington College, Park Sydney meets the needs of the whole family.

The masterplanned community includes 7,400 sqm of parkland and play areas with BBQ facilities, amphitheatres, walkways and cycleways.

5. Orchid, Eastgardens 
Address: 9 Oscar Place, Eastgardens NSW 2036 
Two-bedroom apartments from $835,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29389]

Orchid, the final stage of Meriton&rsquo;s masterplanned Pagewood Green development in Eastgardens, offers a &ldquo;residential oasis&rdquo; within Sydney&rsquo;s East, according to the project marketing.

Offering residents an ideal natural setting to recharge, the development is located nearby surrounding parklands, sporting fields and recreation facilities, including Centennial Park, Lakes Golf Course and the urban bushland at Moore Park.

Plenty of places to take the dog for a stroll, or to fetch a ball.

6. Reflections, Rhodes 
Address:44 Shoreline Drive, Rhodes NSW 2138 
Two bedroom residences from $840,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25478]

Meriton&rsquo;s final waterfront development at the Rhodes Peninsula is Reflections which has never to be built out views.

Designed by Meriton&#39;s in-house team, the low-density collection of 94 apartments feature enclosed balconies with floor-to-ceiling windows to take advantage of the surrounding views.

Just over 10 minutes&rsquo; drive from Macquarie Park, the project enjoys a real community feel with a 300 sqm private park, 25-metre heated pool, sauna and gym among its offerings.

7. 180 George Street, Parramatta 
Address: 180 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 
Two-bedroom apartments from $715,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8590]

Meriton&rsquo;s world-class 180 George development brings together beautifully designed residences with the ideal lifestyle amenities to suit everyone.

Designed by Woods Bagot, the 767-apartment development features communal open space, including rooftop gardens, a sundrenched podium terrace and a barbeque area.

The 1,200 sqm podium gardens complement the adjoining 58-level hotel suites tower.

Hailed as Parramatta&rsquo;s tallest residential tower, take your dog for a walk by the water in its shade.

Although many apartment building used to not allow animals, there are developments that welcome pets, dogs in particular with open arms and even facilitate pet living and lifestyles

Top seven Sydney apartments perfect for dogs

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GUEST OBSERVATION 
Feeling lonely? A dog may help. Our research out today confirms what many dog owners already know: dogs are great companions that can help you to feel less lonely.
Cuddles and slobbery kisses, meeting other dog owners in the park and a general lift in mood all likely help.
But our study, published today in <a href="https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-019-7770-5" target="_blank">BMC Public Health</a>, found dogs didn’t affect psychological distress, the type seen in depression and anxiety.
Why are we studying this?
<a href="https://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/report/pets-in-australia-a-national-survey-of-pets-and-people/" target="_blank">Almost two in five Australian households own a dog</a>. And although most dog owners will assure you, in no uncertain terms, their dog is a source of sheer happiness, scientific evidence is lacking.
Most previous studies have compared the mental well-being of dog owners to non-owners at a single point in time. The problem with these studies is they cannot tell if dogs actually make us happier, less lonely or less stressed. They also cannot tell us if dog owners are simply in a more positive state of mind in the first place.
So, in this study, we measured mental well-being at three points in time: before owning a dog, three months after owning a dog and eight months after owning a dog.
What did we do?
<a href="https://sydney.edu.au/charles-perkins-centre/our-research/current-research/physical-activity-exercise-and-energy-expenditure/dog-ownership-and-human-health" target="_blank">Our study</a>, known as the PAWS trial, involved 71 Sydney adults who were separated into three groups:
<ul>
<li>people who bought a dog within one month of starting the study</li>
<li>people who were interested in getting a dog in the near future but agreed not to get one during the study, and</li>
<li>people who had no interest in getting a dog.</li>
</ul>
People filled out surveys to measure their mood, loneliness and symptoms of psychological distress at the three different time-points. We then compared the mental well-being of the groups at the beginning of the study, to the mid-point and to the end-point.
Here’s what we found
New dog owners felt less lonely after they got a dog compared to the other two groups. The effect happened quite quickly, within three months of acquiring a dog. There was no further decrease in loneliness between three months and eight months.
We also found some evidence that dog owners had fewer negative emotions, such as nervousness or distress, within three months of getting a new dog but this finding was not as clear cut.
We found that symptoms of depression and anxiety were unchanged after acquiring a dog. Maybe the dog owners in our study already had low levels of psychological distress before they got a dog, so dog ownership didn’t lower these levels any further.
What does it all mean?
There are lots of possible reasons dogs can help to lessen feelings of loneliness. We know having a quick cuddle with a dog <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08927936.2015.1070008" target="_blank">boosts people’s mood in the short-term</a>. Maybe daily dog cuddles can also boost owners’ mood in the long-term which could help to lower feelings of loneliness.
Dog owners may also meet new people through their dog as <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1348/000712600161673" target="_blank">people are more likely to talk strangers if they are accompanied by a dog</a>. In our study, dog owners also said they had met new people in their neighbourhood because of their dog.
So far, there have only been two similar studies to look at mental well-being in new dog owners, one of which was conducted almost 30 years ago.
Of these studies, one found dog owners had <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1774745" target="_blank">fewer symptoms of psychiatric disorders</a> after they acquired a dog. The other study found <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.2752/089279307X245473" target="_blank">no difference in loneliness</a> after people brought a new dog home.
Dogs may also improve our <a href="https://ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/cir.0b013e31829201e1" target="_blank">physical health</a>, by reducing blood pressure, improving cardiovascular health and increasing the amount of physical activity their owners perform. But, as is the case with mental well-being, the scientific evidence is still limited.
So, what happens next?
One of the things our study cannot determine is how dogs affect men’s mental well-being. By chance, all the new dog owners in our study were women. So, we don’t know whether dogs affect men’s mental well-being in a different way to women’s.
Our next step is to look at mental well-being in a much bigger group of new dog owners to confirm these findings. A bigger study could also provide more insight into the relationship between dog ownership and mental illness, such as depression and anxiety.
If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/125495/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
Lauren Powell, PhD candidate, University of Sydney.
Emmanuel Stamatakis, Professor of Physical Activity, Lifestyle, and Population Health, University of Sydney.
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/dogs-really-can-chase-away-loneliness-125495" target="_blank">original article</a>.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Dogs really can chase away loneliness

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<h1>Riding in cars with dogs: millions of trips a week tell us transport policy needs to change</h1>
Having a pet dog turns out to be a highly car-dependent affair. Author provided <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jennifer-kent-13822" target="_blank">Jennifer Kent</a>, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841" target="_blank">University of Sydney</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/corinne-mulley-106" target="_blank">Corinne Mulley</a>, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841" target="_blank">University of Sydney</a>
Dog owners depend very heavily on their cars to transport and care for their pets. Our recently published <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965856417302161">study</a> estimates that dog owners make about 2.4 million dog-related trips a week in Sydney. We also found pet owners overwhelmingly want to be able to travel on public transport with their pets. So why are they still excluded?
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Further reading: <a href="https://theconversation.com/we-need-a-better-understanding-of-how-we-manage-dogs-to-help-them-become-better-urban-citizens-64749" target="_blank">We need a better understanding of how we manage dogs to help them become better urban citizens</a>
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Our study, involving more than 1,250 Sydney dog owners, looked at popular activities owners do with their dogs and how often these require a trip by car. Typical activities include:
<ul>
<li>walking</li>
<li>visiting the park or other recreational areas</li>
<li>dog training</li>
<li>going to cafés, bars or shops</li>
<li>visiting family, friends or the vet.</li>
</ul>
On average, we found people walk their dog twice or more a week. While this confirms <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091743507003775" target="_blank">existing research</a>, we found that one in four dog walks actually began with a drive in a car. Of the more than 75% of dog owners who go to a recreational area twice or more a week, 45% get there by car. And of the two-thirds of people who go to the dog park three times a week, more than half travel by car.
This demonstrates a surprisingly high reliance on private cars for dog ownership. The table below clearly shows this.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/194753/original/file-20171115-19841-1c1ibfb.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
Activities undertaken by dog owners and the number of dog-related car trips each week.
The survey also found that, on average, people visit a vet three times a year. They use a car for 86% of those trips.
However, 14% said lack of transport had prevented them from taking their dog to a vet. People who did not own a car were more likely to fall into this category.
<h2>So, why does this matter?</h2>
Our results indicate that enjoying and caring for a dog in Australian cities – which has <a href="https://theconversation.com/our-pets-strengthen-neighbourhood-ties-79755" target="_blank">proven health and social benefits</a> – is a relatively car-dependent affair. And car dependency is something urban <a href="https://theconversation.com/stuck-in-traffic-we-need-a-smarter-approach-to-congestion-than-building-more-roads-84774" target="_blank">planners want us to leave behind</a> for many reasons, including sustainability, health and <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/healthy-liveable-cities-44685%20in%20our%20cities" target="_blank">liveability</a>.
If we are trying to reduce car use, understanding activities that lead to car dependence is important. We are particularly interested in the unintentional, often negative, consequences for individuals who, by choice or circumstance, do not have access to a car. A compromised ability to enjoy and care for a dog is one such consequence.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/197467/original/file-20171203-5392-1lre7jv.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/197467/original/file-20171203-5392-1lre7jv.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
All European cities allow dogs on public transport but most cities in the US and Australia do not. <a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/chihuahua-arms-travels-public-transport-615671681?irgwc=1&amp;utm_medium=Affiliate&amp;utm_campaign=TinEye&amp;utm_source=77643&amp;utm_term=" target="_blank">TIF Fotos/Shutterstock</a>
A policy solution would be to allow dogs on public transport in Australian cities. Unsurprisingly, our survey of dog owners found an overwhelming 95% support this.
More than half indicated they would do more activities with their hound if this were allowed. And 20% said they would even consider getting by without one of their cars if they could take their dog on public transport.
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Further reading: <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-there-a-place-for-dogs-in-public-space-or-must-they-make-do-with-dog-parks-56147" target="_blank">Is there a place for dogs in public space, or must they make do with ‘dog parks’?</a>
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<h2>What are the rules in other countries?</h2>
With these findings in mind, we investigated public transport policies on pets in 30 cities across Europe, the United States and Australia. We found all European cities allowed dogs on public transport. Most cities in the US and <a href="https://transportnsw.info/travel-info/using-public-transport/travelling-with-animals-pets">Australia</a> did not.
The policies allowing dogs vary. Some apply limits on where on the train, tram or bus a dog may travel, on travel during peak hours, and on the size of dog. In cities such as Paris, dogs must pass a “basket test” for riding in a carrier or small bag.
Most cities charge a fare for dogs at a concession or child price. Zurich has gone a step further by offering an <a href="https://www.sbb.ch/en/travelcards-and-tickets/tickets-for-switzerland/dogs" target="_blank">annual travel card</a> for dogs.
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Further reading: <a href="https://theconversation.com/johnny-depps-dogs-show-evolving-ideas-of-animal-citizenship-41968" target="_blank">Johnny Depp’s dogs show evolving ideas of animal ‘citizenship’</a>
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It is interesting that in cultures where private cars are dominant – such as Australia and the US – dogs are restricted from riding on public transport. In Europe, where car ownership and use are less common and public transport use is more the norm, dogs are welcome on trains and buses.
This perhaps says something about how we see public transport in Australia: it is for predictable and “clean” trips, such as the journey to work.
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/87094/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">In reality, our lives are made up of messy trips, and to reduce car dependence we need to plan for this mess. This might include measures such as changes to timetables, making the interior of trains and buses more suitable for people carrying groceries, or allowing people to use the train to take their dog on an outing or to the vet. If public transport is for travel for all citizens and dogs are an important part of so many people’s lives, why should dogs be excluded from public transport?
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jennifer-kent-13822" target="_blank">Jennifer Kent</a>, Research Fellow, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841" target="_blank">University of Sydney</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/corinne-mulley-106" target="_blank">Corinne Mulley</a>, Professor; Chair in Public Transport, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841" target="_blank">University of Sydney</a>
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/riding-in-cars-with-dogs-millions-of-trips-a-week-tell-us-transport-policy-needs-to-change-87094" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Riding in cars with dogs: Public transport policy needs to change

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As Ray White continues its journey to be the leader in customer excellence, they have not forgotten one of their core customers - family pets - with the launch of a brand new specialist program featuring qualified agents selling homes to our furry friends.
It comes after a first for the industry saw Ray White agent Evan Williams sell what has been dubbed a ‘poochy palace’ in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hggp8qeCn9k" target="_blank">Sydney’s north for $1.25 million</a>. 
The new offering will work in conjunction with <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1T40RXW1oy0Sm-He6sqCqMU5PLeuGKDMxL89_Sx6o-HQ/viewform" target="_blank">Ray White Concierge’s pet care and transport service</a> - where Ray White’s human customers will be entitled to exclusive benefits to ensure their pets are comfortable and well looked after during their move.
The sale of the poochy palace came about when the new owners of the property decided they were not utilising the space because they had no pets of their own. 
They are taking advantage of a spike in land value in the north - where a car space was recently sold for $150,000.
Ray White agent Evan Williams said the demand has been high.
“There has been an incredible amount of interest in the property. It’s a market that has never before been given a second thought, but it was an obvious decision for Ray White to move into this space and take care of our four legged friends.”
“The new owners are thrilled to finally get their paws on the property ladder.”
Evan says that for those who missed out this time around, there will be plenty of stock on the market.
Sounds like an April Fools stunt!
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