Rockdale has long been characterized as a suburb on the cusp. Well-located, well-connected, but historically underserved by modern apartment offerings.

It has everything going for it: outstanding connectivity to the Sydney CBD, just four train stops to Central Station, strong local amenity anchored by Roc​kdale Plaza and a growing main-street dining scene, and enviable proximity to Brighton-Le-Sands. The six-kilometre beachfront is lined with bayside restaurants, cafés, and walking paths, giving residents a lifestyle typically associated with much more expensive coastal suburbs.

What Rock​dale has lacked is high-quality contemporary apartments. Most existing developments date back several decades, with floorplans that no longer support modern living needs, and buildings constructed long before today’s standards in engineering, efficiency, and sustainability.

Lender, fund manager and apartment developer Princeton identified the gap early. Seeing all the right ingredients in Rockd​ale, transport, lifestyle, retail, and affordability, they set out to deliver what the suburb was missing. Their answer is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale-nsw-2216">Marque Rockdale</a>, a collection of 58 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments now nearing completion just a short walk from Ro​ckdale Plaza, home to over 50 specialist retailers and anchored by&nbsp;Woolworths, Big W and Aldi.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=355216]

Understanding they would be resetting the benchmark for the area, Princeton focused on ensuring buyers received best-in-class quality, longevity, and protection.

A major step was securing the sought-after Latent Defects Insurance policy from Resilience Insurance. This policy protects apartment buyers from structural or waterproofing defects for the first 10 years of the building’s lifecycle. Crucially, it is first-response insurance, meaning that if an issue arises, the insurer pays immediately for remediation—rather than waiting for lengthy investigations to determine fault before work can begin. For purchasers, it offers an unprecedented layer of security rarely seen in Sydney apartment projects.

During construction, independent building inspection firm SDSS has been providing Technical Inspection Services, bringing highly specialised construction experts on-site at key stages to ensure workmanship meets the highest standards. The project is being built by Coplex, an iCIRT-rated construction company, and throughout the build SDSS has frequently referred to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale-nsw-2216">Marque Rockdale</a> as one of the best projects currently on their books.

Princeton also doubled down on comfort, acoustics, and livability.&nbsp;As well as being the only building along Princes Highway with a landscaped buffer between the building and the road, Princeton has purposefully included double-glazed windows in all apartments to reduce noise.

Apartments feature double-glazed, noise-reducing windows and ducted air conditioning in every residence.&nbsp;In addition to the project’s transport convenience, Princeton has partnered with GoGet Car Share to provide a dedicated GoGet vehicle housed permanently within the building. Residents will receive a free annual GoGet membership, paying only usage fees, offering a flexible alternative to owning a second car and enhancing the project’s sustainability credentials.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=277075]

Residents will enjoy an exclusive rooftop oasis, purpose-designed as an extension of their living space. The communal rooftop includes BBQ facilities and outdoor entertaining areas, a&nbsp;pergola-shaded dining zone, a dedicated children’s play space, and a landscaped herb garden.

Princeton and Coplex is approaching completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale-nsw-2216">Marque Rockdale</a>, and are expecting residents to move in early in the new year. The mix of apartment configurations and price points have been a hit with young professionals, those who need to commute to the CBD, and families who appreciate doorstep amenity.

“Marque is a place where residents will be proud to call it home," Princeton Head of Development George Young says.

"We’ve worked really hard with Coplex and our design team to deliver an incredible building for the future home owners to make their own. The homes are all designed to allow the residents to make it their own, a place to belong and live a stylish urban life."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136442]

Joel Robinson

Marque Rockdale sets a new standard of apartment living in Sydney's south

Plans to revitalize the&nbsp;long-established Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre into a mixed-use community combining living, shopping, dining, health and wellbeing facilities, have been proposed to the Gold Coast City Council.

The Benowa Gardens Urban Village proposal by Benowa Gardens Holdings seeks to transform the 17,660 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/203-ashmore-road-benowa-qld-4217">203 Ashmore Road</a> into a contemporary, sustainable destination that reflects global trends in modern community design while retaining the familiar local character residents value.

The site is bordered by Ashmore and Benowa Roads and Carrara, with ready access to Pindara private hospital, four schools, TAFE, sports fields and the nearby Botanic Gardens.

Benowa Gardens Holdings is seeking a preliminary Council approval only for its proposed masterplan and variations to the site’s Neighbourhood Centre zoning.&nbsp; 
Formal Public Exhibition commenced Friday and also marks the start of comprehensive community consultation with surroundings residents, schools, P&amp;Cs, existing retailers, nearby sporting clubs, arts groups and Botanic Gardens volunteers.

Designed by Neylan Architecture, the masterplan envisions around 413 new apartments, complemented by upgraded retail, dining, and wellness amenities as part of 10,000 sqm of retail, and 9,630 sqm of office space/medical suites.

The development will feature green open spaces, shaded promenades, landscaped terraces, pedestrian walkways, and expanded healthcare and lifestyle services in synergy with the neighbouring Pindara Private Hospital and local schools.

<img alt="Benowa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="244f4d54-2e67-4141-92b8-78d5735f47c2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-26%20at%2012.47.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=FmF5lzhpwVZc7POsdB770TJ_Bf2c0od8" />

“This concept embraces the way people increasingly want to live - safely, conveniently, and within strong local communities,” said Patrick Lu, Director of Benowa Gardens Holding.

“Benowa Gardens will set a new benchmark for integrated living on the Gold Coast. It’s a thoughtful, community-minded evolution that brings global best practice in urban design to one of the city’s most established areas.”

Lu said this isn’t just a redevelopment, it’s a renewal with purpose.

“Benowa Gardens has served the community for decades. Our goal is to ensure it continues to do so for generations to come, as a lively, connected Urban Village where people can truly live, work and thrive. We’re already talking to school leaders and the community to seek their feedback on our proposal, and have taken on board their ideas to improve student safety with additional “traffic calming” measures on Carrara Street. We’re conducting meaningful and sincere consultations and want to play our role in preserving and enhancing the local community."

The proposed redevelopment aims to deliver tangible benefits across the Benowa and wider Gold Coast community, including:

<ul>
	<li>Improvement of retail amenity, to capture the under-served local market demand and keep the local business at their local shopping centre.</li>
	<li>Housing diversity; offering a range of apartment types for key workers, downsizers, and local families who wish to remain in the area.</li>
	<li>Enhanced shopping and dining; revitalised retail spaces designed to support local businesses and attract more visitors.</li>
	<li>Health and wellbeing access; additional medical and wellness amenities to complement existing local facilities.</li>
	<li>Improved traffic flow and access; two new access points, upgraded intersections, upgrade pedestrian pathway’s signal and proposed upgrade of pedestrian and cycle connections/space to improve safety and convenience, especially for school children.</li>
	<li>Environmental sustainability; energy-efficient design, green rooftops, and water-sensitive landscaping to reduce emissions and enhance comfort.</li>
	<li>Local jobs and investment; supporting hundreds of construction and long-term roles while stimulating local economic growth.</li>
</ul>

The group behind the project boasts extensive experience in the property development industry, both in Australia and international markets. Over the past 23 years, the group has been involved in the development and management of a diverse portfolio of assets including residential dwellings, shopping centres, bulky-goods stores, community and medical facilities, childcare centres, offices, hotels, and taverns, across Brisbane, Ipswich, and the Gold Coast.

Benowa Gardens to become new mixed-use urban village

Demand for townhouses in Melbourne’s inner west has surged as buyers seek the elusive combination of space, affordability, and location.&nbsp;

With family-first apartments increasingly rare and standalone homes often out of reach, townhouses have emerged as the new sweet spot, delivering generous living areas with lower maintenance needs within close proximity to the Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/kings-lane-south-kingsville-50-58-new-street-south-kingsville-vic-3015">Kings Lane</a>, the new under-construction townhouse development by the family-owned developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/blue-run">Blue Run</a>&nbsp;in South Kingsville, responds directly to this trend. Comprising just 25 residences designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project offers a compelling alternative to both apartment downsizers and family upsizers. With three-bedroom homes priced under $1 million, it presents one of the area’s rare attainable pathways to townhouse living less than eight kilometres from the CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145042 project_image_fid=355147]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/south-kingsville-vic-3015">South Kingsville</a> itself is quietly becoming one of Melbourne’s most dynamic pockets of urban renewal. Flanked by the established appeal of Yarraville, Newport and Williamstown, the suburb balances quiet, village-like streetscapes with major infrastructure upgrades and a growing slate of retail, dining and lifestyle amenity.&nbsp;

Kings Lane occupies a well-connected site at 50–58 New Street, just off Blackshaws Road and within walking distance of the emerging Union Quarter precinct, a major retail destination anchored by Woolworths, specialty food outlets and wellness services.

A 400-metre stroll brings residents to the Vernon Street shops, a local favourite known for its mix of independent grocers, cafes and family-run eateries. For broader shopping options, Altona Gate Shopping Centre and Yarraville Square are both within a short drive. Spotswood IGA and the Williamstown retail strip further broaden the convenience of daily essentials.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145042 project_image_fid=355139]

Dining options in the area lean toward eclectic and community-driven, with standouts like Rocco’s Deli, Dad and Dave’s, and Pizza d’ASPORTO offering a range of casual and elevated menus. Cafés such as Hudson Road Wine &amp; Beer and Blacksheep Coffee add to the lively yet local feel of the neighbourhood.

Green space is another hallmark of life at Kings Lane. Edwards Reserve is close enough for morning walks or casual sport, while larger parks like Newport Lakes, Yarraville Gardens, and Cruickshank Park are all a few minutes’ drive away. More than half of the nine-hectares of new green space or parkland being created as part of the West Gate tunnel works is located just at the end of New Street, the same street as Kings Lane.

&nbsp;

For those with school-age children, South Kingsville is home to a range of quality childcare centres and schools, including Kingsville Primary, Spotswood Primary, and Williamstown North Primary. Community Children’s childcare and South Kingsville Preschool are nearby, making the suburb particularly attractive to young families.

Transport links continue to improve, with Spotswood Station and the West Gate Freeway both within a five-minute radius. Future upgrades, including the proposed sky rail for Newport and Spotswood, and the delivery of the West Gate Tunnel project, promise even better access to the CBD and Melbourne Airport in the years to come.

Kings Lane's 25 all-electric townhouses are currently under construction, and will complete in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145042]

Staff Writer

Kings Lane townhouses offers rare value in Melbourne's thriving inner west

Developer-builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> has set a new apartment price record for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a>, a suburb the company has been instrumental in transforming over the past two decades.

The milestone follows the delivery of thousands of apartments across the harbourside peninsula, culminating in the $4.5 million sale of a 220 sqm penthouse in the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/rhodes-central-oasis-39-marquet-street-rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes Central Oasis</a> building, which Billbergia completed earlier this year. It is the first apartment in Rhodes to surpass not only the $4 million mark for settled sales, but also the $3 million mark, eclipsing the previous $2.75 million record set in 2021.

The purchaser had originally secured several apartments in the 40-storey tower off the plan as investments. During settlement, she spent more time in the Rhodes area and was so impressed with the building that she decided to downsize from her Northbridge home into the four-bedroom plus MPR penthouse.

The sale underscores the long-term work Billbergia has undertaken in Rhodes since the early 2000s. The company, rated 4.5 Gold Stars under the NSW iCIRT system, identifying it as one of the state’s most trustworthy and financially secure developers, was a pioneer of the area’s urban renewal. What was once a heavily industrial waterfront has become one of Sydney’s most successful examples of transit-oriented development.

<img alt="Billbergia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="56093d7f-db18-42f4-bf9b-115bdf76f5f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-26%20at%2011.10.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pca77Mr.H83nwXbJexmaLUAqBewtQ7d9" />

Billbergia is now driving the peninsula’s next major evolution: the most ambitious project in its nearly four-decade history. They are planning the Rhodes Bay Masterplan, an eight-tower, mixed-use precinct on Leeds Street. Currently with the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority which is now championing large-scale projects across the state, the Rhodes Bay Masterplan lays the groundwork for a generational reshaping of this important pocket of Sydney’s Inner West.

The masterplan spans more than 31,000 sqm of amalgamated industrial land along the foreshore, land that has been privately held and inaccessible to the community for more than a century. According to Billbergia’s Development Director, Saul Moran, reclaiming this land for public use is central to the company’s vision. 
 
“What’s so exciting is that we have over 300 metres of privately-held industrialised waterfront, land that’s been locked away for more than 100 years, which we’re bringing back to the community,” he says. “It’s taken many years to assemble sites like these, and the goal now is to transform them into meaningful public space where new homes can be built in an integrated, amenity-rich setting.”

At full completion, the Rhodes Bay Masterplan is expected to deliver over 2000 apartments, with the first 1000 to be completed by 2029. Billbergia’s design focused on nine slender towers, so they could give back more to the ground plane. There will be more than 16,000sq m of new parkland and recreation space, including sports fields, a foreshore play area and waterfront green links. Around 14,600 sqm of retail is also proposed, extending the precinct’s role as a true mixed-use hub.

<img alt="Rhodes Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="240ffc41-4f26-421a-9606-5c56f6fc2d93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-26%20at%2011.05.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=BkBxZr7S8CAt1vgNa8AF3zjdc3YuVh0L" />

“Density only works when it’s paired with amenity, transport and open space, and that’s what’s made Rhodes such an amazing success story,” Moran says, adding that the demographic shift Billbergia has seen over the last two decades has informed their future development pipeline in the suburb.

“Rhodes has moved from being largely an investor market to a strong owner-occupier community,” Moran says. “There’s real demand for three-bedroom homes, flexible intergenerational layouts, and apartments people can grow into.”

&nbsp;“We’re designing taller, more slender towers to free up the ground level for sport, recreation and green space. High-density communities thrive when people have the best backyards in Australia, and that’s what we want to create here.”

Demand remains robust, evidenced by Billbergia’s recent results. “We achieved a record sale across the entirety of Rhodes Central just last week,” Moran says. “It shows the depth of confidence buyers have in what’s being built here.”

Billbergia’s vertically integrated model allows them to overcome the recent cost escalation and challenges in the build environment. “Having an in-house construction team lets us control feasibility, value management and quality from day one,” Moran says. “It’s critical in the current market, where construction escalation is at the forefront of every project’s viability.”

The company is also leveraging the NSW Government’s new Housing Delivery Authority process, which Moran describes as a more efficient pathway without compromising design standards. 
 
“We’re really applauding the NSW Government for its efforts to increase housing supply. There’s been a remarkable improvement in how they’re helping deliver more homes, more quickly.”

Billbergia has already commenced construction of Stage One of the Rhodes Bay masterplan. They will be lodging the State Significant Development Application before Christmas.

“We’re moving quickly, but with due care,” Moran says. “This is a generational precinct, and it needs to be done right.”

Billbergia smashes suburb record as Rhodes transformation continues

The sheer scale of the two skyscrapers at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/victoria-albert-broadbeach-20-albert-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">Victoria &amp; Albert</a>, soaring 40 and 64 storeys above the heart of Broadbeach, was always destined to deliver some of the highest and most luxurious apartments ever built in the suburb.

Now, builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/iris-capital">Iris Capital</a> has unveiled the Horizon Collection, a selection of residences with the largest floorplans and most commanding views in the towers. The three-bedroom apartments, starting from $4.64 million, include butler’s pantries, multi-purpose rooms, and, in some layouts, master retreats with private sitting areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=3944]

The most prestigious apartments in the Horizon Collection are the sub-penthouses and penthouses. The two sub-penthouses on the 38th level of the Albert Tower are priced at $8.85 million.

Each features three bedrooms, a study, and a flexible multi-purpose room with a sliding partition that allows half the space to function as a games room.

The open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, complete with a butler’s kitchen and private wine cellar, flows onto a full-width balcony framing panoramic coastal views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=3943]

There is now just one sub-penthouse for sale on the 62nd level of the Victoria Tower, with one already secured by an expat owner-occupier. The remaining sub-penthouse, priced at $8.95 million, offers four bedrooms and a wraparound balcony that captures panoramic views up and down the Coast. vistas from every angle.

Crowning each tower is a full-floor penthouse offering multiple expansive indoor and outdoor living and entertaining spaces. Atop the Victoria building is Oceania, which measures over 735 sqm of living space, and Kurrara atop the Albert Tower, which is almost 800 sqm. They each have four bedrooms, including a master and guest suites, a full 360-degree panorama of the Gold Coast, and all the bells and whistles expected of a luxury penthouse. They are priced from a little over $18 million.

“Every detail, every finish has been thoughtfully considered to imbue the penthouses with the ultimate sense of luxury,” says Susan Rossi, Director of Interior Design at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, who led both the architecture and interiors for V&amp;A. “We shaped these skyhomes to embody the spirit of Gold Coast luxury.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=234091]

Victoria &amp; Albert, colloquially known as V&amp;A, is the flagship Gold Coast development by the Sydney-based Iris Capital. Led by developer and hotelier Sam Arnaout, Iris Capital acquired the landmark Niecon Plaza site in 2021. At the time, Arnaout described the company’s expansion into Queensland as a strategic move to capitalise on one of Australia’s strongest growth markets.

“We were initially looking to expand into Victoria, but the massive migration to the regions that followed the pandemic created a new dynamic across the Australian market,” Arnaout said.

“From a strategic point of view, Queensland — and the Gold Coast in particular — is the perfect fit for our business. The fundamentals here are strong: genuine employment growth, high net migration, and an undersupply of apartments driven by strong demand. The Gold Coast has matured into a thriving, progressive regional city with a fantastic future.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=234097]

Across its two towers, V&amp;A will deliver 425 luxury apartments, supported by a suite of resort-style resident amenities. These include a subtropical podium featuring a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga deck, residents’ lounge, kids’ play area, zen garden, and barbecue terraces with outdoor dining spaces.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> Queensland Director David Higgins, who has managed sales at V&amp;A since its 2021 launch, says the project has set a new benchmark for Broadbeach’s luxury apartment market. Colliers Queensland Director David Higgins, who has managed sales at V&amp;A since its 2021 launch, says the project has set a new benchmark for Broadbeach’s luxury apartment market.

“The premium market has definitely spoken, with V&amp;A having now reached over half a billion dollars in presales since our launch,” Higgins says, adding that over 65 per cent of V&amp;A is now sold.

“Our buyers continue to validate the success of the Victoria &amp; Albert development vision and the luxury amenity that comes along with their apartment purchase. Of course, Broadbeach’s most walkable location, just 100m from the Broadbeach surfing beach, makes this luxury apartment a compelling addition to your real estate portfolio.”

Last year, Iris Capital brought construction in-house through its new arm, Iris Built. Completion of the 40-level Albert Tower is scheduled for late 2027, with the 64-level Victoria Tower, the taller of the two, expected to follow in mid-2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107928]

Victoria & Albert’s Horizon Collection takes Broadbeach living to new heights

Historic

The landmark Coogee mansion, Ballamac House, is set to undergo a redevelopment into luxury apartments.

Sydney developer Central Element are seeking to transform the historic house, which has been flats for the last six decades. The building at 39 Arcadia Street, just 350 metres from the beach, will be restored and revived to its original glory, creating a collection of just eight apartments&nbsp;to be added to the east of the house.&nbsp;

The group’s vision of fusing old and new will bring the Ballamac House estate into a new era, with the restoration and new build designed by acclaimed architects, Tonkin Zulaikha Greer (TZG), who have collaborated with Central Element on a number of previous projects, including 25Hours Paddington and The Metro-Minerva Potts Point.&nbsp;

TZG’s Director, Tim Greer said their approach was to design both spectacular but also comfortable residences, which spoke to the site’s coastal location and embraced the natural elements of the surrounding environment.&nbsp;

“With Ballamac’s rich Coogee history and Central Element’s expertise, TZG Architects are making a new story. The things we chase in our stories as we craft them are timeless, rational and beautiful but the things that you remember are the small moments of wonder and delight that stay with you long after you have departed” Greer said.

All eight residences will feature three-bedrooms, with the rooftop and penthouse apartments to be split across two levels of living.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two of the residences will sit within the original 1860’s house with the remaining six situated in the added apartment building, which will feature a communal outdoor entertaining area and garden.

Each of the residences will enjoy the locale of the waterfront location with uninterrupted views out to Wedding Cake Island.

The two apartments within the original house are set to be an ode to old-worldly living, with the retention of the external and internal walls of the original house, along with original fireplaces, mantel pieces, and decorative ceilings.&nbsp;

The residences will also see the reconstruction of the wrap-around verandah with the original rectangular cast iron columns, allowing for indoor to outdoor living.

The repair and conservation of the sandstone walls of the original house will be continued in the new apartment building, blending old and new.

There will be new landscaping by&nbsp;award-winning landscape architecture practice JILA, which will also see a communal plunge pool added.

Central Element’s Managing Director, Nathan Chivas said Ballamac House is a hallmark project for the group, designed to make a lasting impact on the celebrated beach lifestyle in one of Sydney’s most sought-after addresses.&nbsp;

“The legacy and famous history of the building will be preserved as we transform the former residence and add further luxury living spaces that will deliver an elevated lifestyle dimension to the landmark site,” he said.&nbsp;

Completion of the redevelopment is slated for 2024.&nbsp;

The building at 39 Arcadia Street, just 350 metres from the beach, will be restored and revived to its original glory

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Central Element to redevelop Coogee's 1860’s Ballamac House into luxury apartments

EXPERT OBSERVER

Employment fell by 594,300 in April – the biggest monthly decline in jobs on record. Full-time jobs fell by 220,500 and part-time jobs fell by 373,800.

The unemployment rate rose from 5.2 per cent to 6.2 per cent in April – the biggest lift on record. It was the highest jobless rate since July 2015.

Hours worked fell by 9.2 per cent - the biggest monthly decline on record.

Participation rate: The participation rate fell from 66 per cent to a near 16-year low of 63.5 per cent – the biggest fall on record.

Spare capacity: In April, the underutilisation rate increased by 5.9 percentage points to a record 19.9 per cent. The underemployment rate increased by 4.9 percentage points to a record 13.7 per cent.

Unemployment across states in April: NSW 6.0 per cent (March 4.9 per cent); Victoria 6.0 per cent (5.2 per cent); Queensland 6.8 per cent (5.7 per cent); South Australia 7.2 per cent (6.3 per cent); Western Australia 6.0 per cent (5.4 per cent); Tasmania 6.2 per cent (4.9 per cent); Northern Territory 6.0 per cent (5.5 per cent); ACT 4.2 per cent (3.2 per cent). A record 221,500 jobs were lost in New South Wales; 129,500 jobs were lost in Queensland; and 127,100 jobs were lost in Victoria.

A raft of companies is affected by the employment data but especially those dependent on consumer spending.

What does it all mean?

If you went back a year ago, no one would have imagined that more than half a million jobs could be lost in the space of a month. The terms ‘unprecedented’ and ‘extraordinary’ are used regularly to describe the effects of COVID-19 on the economy. But when discussing the impact on the job market, the terms are appropriate.

What is happening in the figures is that almost 600,000 weren’t registered as employed in April – they didn’t work more than hour a week in the reference week. But those JobSeeker and JobKeeper recipients didn’t join the dole queue rather they “left” the workforce – they were neither employed or unemployed in the month. Rather the JobKeeper and JobSeeker beneficiaries stayed home, and waited for the economy to re-start so they could return to workplaces.

The fact that the jobless rate rose to 6.2 per cent and not 8.2 per cent is very positive. It shows that those on the sidelines are confident of returning to their jobs. The longer that an unemployed person stays out of work, the harder it is for that person to eventually find work. The great hope is that the job losses were only temporary and that the re-opening of the economy is indeed successful.

The best way to describe the impact of COVID-19 on the job market is in terms of the number of hours worked. Hours worked slumped by a record 9.2 per cent, and that accords with expectations that the economy will contract 10 per cent in the first half of 2020.

Many people have kept their jobs because of the JobKeeper program. So while those on the program are still ‘employed’ and deriving an income of sorts, they are not working, not adding to the output of businesses, and not adding to overall economic activity. The JobKeeper program keeps people connected to their employers, which is positive for the recovery phase. But the payments also ensure that people can spend and therefore serve to keep others in jobs and keep the economy moving.

The jobless rate is expected to peak near 10 per cent. And the Reserve Bank and Federal Treasury expect the economy to contract 10 per cent in the first half of 2020. But provided social distancing is maintained with good hand hygiene and significant COVID-19 testing, there is no reason that a ‘V-shaped’ economic recovery can’t occur as lockdown restrictions ease.

Looking ahead, the closure of our foreign borders will have a range of effects on the economy which also represents the value of Buying Off-The-Plan. Around 150,000 people come to Australia each year on different visas and do the jobs that Australians can’t or won’t do. If the jobs aren’t filled, then this could slow business output and economic output. But the absence, or reduced number, of migrants could serve to keep the jobless rate down if Aussies take up the jobs that they have shunned in the past.

The drop in jobs masks the impact - and future impact - on incomes. People have lost income and there is little hope for a lift in wages in the months ahead. Add in the deferral of dividend payments by listed companies and little or no interest income and there may be scope for ‘top up’ cash handouts by the Government.

CRAIG JAMES is the&nbsp;Chief Economist at CommSec

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Historic Aussie job market unemployment spike: CommSec's Craig James

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A nineteenth century heritage-listed property in Taroona has sold.
The historic Tasmanian house, known as Hillgrove, is built on a 4.8 hectares, and features uninterrupted views over the Derwent Estuary and Storm Bay.
It has five bedrooms, three bathrooms, formal living areas, a library, five fireplaces, and large gardens.
Built in the 1860's, the home is listed on the Tasmanian Heritage Council and National Trust of Australia.
It previously traded in 2014, when it fetched $1.058 million.
Gayle Walker, from Sotheby's International Realty Greater Hobart, marketed the property. It was asking $1.4 million this time last year.
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Taroona's Hillgrove property finds buyer

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Former Stockland boss Matthew Quinn and wife Julie have completed their property re-shuffling, having settled on a historic homestead at Berry.
The couple been buying and selling at Kirribilli and recently sold their former Berry home to upgrade.
They've settled on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-berry-127483950" target="_blank">Mananga Homestead</a>, the 1890s property which has a history stretching back to the times of agriculturist David Berry, the suburb's namesake.
It had been ran as a successful bed and breakfast accomodation before the purchase. Over the years it has also lent itself to holiday letting and has been used as a family home.
Overlooking the farms and hills of the South Coast, Mananga has seven bedrooms. There is a country kitchen.
It has been restored since it last traded for $1.25 million in 2003, but maintains some of its original features such as its high ceilings, ornate cornices, hardwood flooring and fireplaces.
A wide wrap around verandah with undercover entertaining area overlooks water features, the manicured lawns and established gardens.
The original dairy with rustic hand hewn timbers, a silo and horse paddocks sits on the near two hectare parcel.
Carrie Bond at South Coast Prestige Properties Kiama sold the home in just 26 days.
The Quinn's recently flipped their Kirribilli townhouse for $3.45 million, having bought it just 15 months earlier for $2.6 million.
They were downsizing at the time, having sold their former Kirribilli home for $7.2 million.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Matthew Quinn and wife Julie buy historic Berry, Mananga Homestead,

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Malaysian property developer UEM Sunrise Berhad has started construction of Conservatory, a 446-apartment project in Melbourne that will reflect the importance of the archaeological finds from the site.
Digging at the 9-23 McKenzie Street site uncovered over 250,000 artefacts in the former Mistletoe Hotel dating back to 1855.
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/Sunrise2.jpg" alt="" width="718" height="525">
Treasures from Melbourne’s Gold Rush era such as a gold nugget, early silver coins, Rising Sun military badges and other artefacts were recovered. The excavation was carried out by consultants TerraCulture Pty Ltd.
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/Sunrise3.jpg" alt="" width="727" height="486">
Jeremy Smith, principal archaeologist at Heritage Victoria, emphasised the importance of the excavation in unravelling a piece of Melbourne’s history.  
“These items signify the influx of wealth coming into Melbourne during the time of European settlement and the gold rush. We are incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity to uncover these artefacts.” 
The $330 million Conservatory is UEM Sunrise Berhad’s second project in Melbourne and will comprise 446 units of one, two and three-bedroom residences on 42 levels. It will also have three levels of residential facilities including a pool, gym, private cinema and jacuzzi. 
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/i1.jpg" alt="">
Its first was Aurora Melbourne Central.
Hickory Group Pty Ltd (Hickory) has been appointed the builder for Conservatory, with construction expected to be completed by end 2018. Ninety percent apartments have been sold to date.
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/i2.jpg" alt="">
UEM Sunrise Chief Operating Officer (Commercial), Raymond Cheah, said “It is fitting that Conservatory’s history is rooted in the opulent Gold Rush era – positioned next to the lush Carlton Gardens. This project epitomises luxury, park-side living with its quality interiors and all the finer things in life such as a private jacuzzi, observation skydeck, private cinema and golf simulator.” 
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/i3.jpg" alt="">
Conservatory is nestled between the UNESCO World Heritage listed Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens.
Taking inspiration from the park, the exterior of Conservatory will resemble an elegant glasshouse, designed by Cox Architecture Pty Ltd, that will change colours with the seasons.
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/i4.jpg" alt="">
In paying homage to the site’s history, builder Hickory will incorporate some of the bluestone uncovered in the excavation into the building as a permanently installed piece of art, as well as display cases to showcase the selection of findings in Conservatory’s lobby. 
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/i6.jpg" alt="">
“Conservatory will no doubt be an amazing place to live, even more so knowing that we are all contributing to the next chapter of the area’s already rich history,” said Michael Argyrou, Hickory’s managing director.  
 <img src="/images/2016/10/13/i7.jpg" alt="">
 
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Construction starts on Conservatory, an apartment project with archaeological twist  

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The philanthropic former newspaperman James Fairfax has now moved to formalise the gifting of his now subdivided historic Retford Park estate in the NSW Southern Highlands.
The Italianate 1887 residence will sit within a protected 32-hectare heritage curtilage to be owned by the NSW National Trust.
Retford Park will be another heritage property on the National Trust Heritage Trail, which will run along the Old Hume Highway 31, including Harper's Mansion at Berrima, Golden Vale at Sutton Forrest, Riversdale at Goulburn and Cooma Cottage at Yass.
The Old South Road property, which sits on the southern edge of Bowral’s rapidly suburban expansion, comes with about 100 hectares including land zoned for subdivision which is being conducted through Savills.
The project director, Allen Robinson said Mr Fairfax was determined to maintain the integrity of Retford Park with plans that were sympathetic to the heritage property and surrounding areas.
The philanthropic former chairman of the ailing publishing company that bears his family name had long advised he would bequeath Retford Park for the benefit of the public.
The story was written by me in 2009 in the Sydney Morning Herald. It was his idea for at least three decades.
Retford Park has been the country home of the arts patron since he paid £15,000 in 1964 for it on a then four-hectare holding.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/retfordmarch1two.jpg" alt="retfordmarch1two" width="470" height="468">
Retford Park, with an Italianate revival-style mansion, dates back to the 1880s when it was the summer retreat of the <a href="https://www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/uploads/1721/w_appendix-7-sue-rosen-final-retford-park-report_resize.pdf" target="_blank">retailing Hordern family</a>. It sits in well maintained gardens that include three Wollemi pines and a Guilford Bell swimming pool pavillion.
"I think Retford Park is an important part of the heritage of the Wingecarribee Shire area and provision has been made in my will for the house and the immediate surrounding land, including the garden, to be left in trust to be viewed by future generations," Mr Fairfax told me in 2009.
Listed on the register of the national estate since 1980, Retford Park takes its name from the village in Nottinghamshire, the northern England town from where Anthony and Ann Hordern immigrated in 1825.
The grounds have many heritage oaks, an enduring association with the Hordern's retailing business, whose emblem was an oak tree under which were the words "While I live, I'll grow".
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/retfordmarch1three.jpg" alt="retfordmarch1three" width="470" height="310">
It was first sold after Anthony's great-grandson, Sir Samuel Hordern, died in 1956, leaving an estate of $279,000. It was briefly owned by the cattle stud operator King Ranch (Australia), of which Edwina Hordern's husband, Peter Baillieu, was managing director.
In his 1991 book, Regards to Broadway, Mr Fairfax recollected he'd had no plans to buy a country house. "But chatting to Peter Baillieu at a cocktail party in December 1963, I learned that Retford Park and 10 acres [four hectares] of land were to be sold." 
It occurred to James that it might be a suitable place for his mother to stay on her annual six month visits from England.
Mr Fairfax, the eldest son of the late Sir Warwick Fairfax and his first wife, Betty Wilson, then set about regularly buying adjoining rural land.
He also set about enlivening the house. 
"When my offer of £15,000 for the house and 10 acres with an option to buy another 10 in three years was accepted, I went into the usual ‘What on earth have I taken on?’ syndrome, but soon
recovered as I got involved in the redecoration which was being done by Leslie Walford," he recalled to Sue Rosen in 2011.
"Some six months later, in the winter of 1964, I commissioned Donald Friend to paint a mural in the dining room," he said.
Photos courtesy of <a href="https://www.highlifemagazine.com.au/" target="_blank">Highlife Magazine</a>, which reports on life in the Southern Highlands of Australia
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

James Fairfax to gift historic Retford Park estate

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The Singaporean construction company Lian Beng has emerged as the buyer of Newspaper House, on Collins Street, Melbourne.
It sold recently for around $24.9 million. Established in 1973, Lian Beng Group is one of Singapore's major home-grown building construction groups with integrated civil engineering division. It is headed by Ong Pang Aik.
The historic Newspaper House, at 247 Collins Street, Melbourne comes with mosaic mural on its front facade designed by Napier Waller in 1932.
Mervyn Napier Waller's "I'll put a girdle about the earth" features heroic human figures appear among scenes of commerce, construction and communication.
There's lots of gold, an echo of the Byzantine era, in the 1933 commission by Sir Keith Murdoch from the Herald &amp; Weekly Times who needed more than their empire on Flinders Street.
<img class="img-responsive" src="/images/2015/05/08/700_mural.jpg" alt="Newspaper House, Collins Street under offer">
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It was the former WH Rocke Ltd building on a 478 square metre holding. The purchaser was considering both leasing and subdivision plans for the building.
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<div class="row article-content">The ground floor of 247 Collins Street had been previously leased to the House of Cashmere, and the upper levels to Sydney International College.  </div>
HIDDEN TREASURES OF NAPIER WALLER
1926-27 MURALS Melbourne Town Hall, Swanston Street.
1927 MURAL Menzies Hotel, cnr Bourke and William streets (building demolished in 1969, mural sold privately).
1928 MURAL Better Than to Squander Life's Gifts Is to Conserve Them and Ensure a Fearless Future T&amp;G Life Building entry foyer, cnr Collins and Russell streets.
1928 MURAL Peace After Victory State Library of Victoria, first-floor landing near La Trobe Reading Room, cnr, Swanston and La Trobe street.
1933 MOSAIC I'll Put a Girdle Round the Earth Newspaper House facade, 247 Collins Street.
1934 FLORENTINE MURALS Florentino Restaurant, now Grossi Florentino, first floor, 80 Bourke Street.
1935 STAINED GLASS WINDOW Wesley Church, Pioneers window, upper gallery, north wall, 148 Lonsdale Street.
1935 STAINED GLASS WINDOW Ian Potter Museum foyer, Swanston Street on university campus. (Designed for Wilson Hall, University of Melbourne, which was destroyed by fire in 1951. Window was retrieved from the ruins.)
1935 MUIRALS Myer Melbourne Mural Hall dining room, sixth floor, 314 Bourke Street.
1937 STAINED GLASS Orchid Window University of Melbourne Botany School.
1940 MURAL Australian Symbolic Figures University of Melbourne Achitecture, Building and Planning Library (Orginally on display at Royal Insurance Company, 414-418 Collins Street, but donated to university after building was demolished in 1969.)
1963 MOSAIC The Eight Aboriginal Tribal Headmen Temple Court foyer, 422 Collins Street.
1967 MOSAIC Prometheus Monash House foyer, 15 William Street.
List Source: Fairfax Media
 
 
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