ASX-listed developer Cedar Woods is progressing its plans for its Southbank arts precinct site.&nbsp;

The developer has filed plans, which are now with the&nbsp;Department of Transport and Planning, for a new 20-level tower at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/141-151-sturt-street-southbank-vic-3006">141–151 Sturt Street</a>, a 2,718 sqm block opposite the Habitat Filter sculpture.

The proposal seeks to demolish the two-level&nbsp;commercial building, including a small supermarket and medical tenancies, and create a new building with 180 apartments and a focus on an&nbsp;active public realm and arts integration.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Southbank site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="76a72db6-91ef-43ae-827d-a9cfa72893d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Site.png?VersionId=DZgtB4K6BswVh0QtCs3iLjXaLp0CbcEb" />

&nbsp;

There will be a full mix of apartment configurations, including 28 studio apartments, 16 one-bedroom, 104 two-bedroom, and 32 three-bedroom units.

Retail, creative arts, and residential amenity functions are integrated across the lower levels. A food and drink tenancy is planned to front Dodds Street, while a retail tenancy fronting Sturt Street will be accessed via an elevated walkway. The first floor includes a substantial 734 sqm creative arts space, envisioned to support Melbourne’s growing cultural and digital industries.

Architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has put together the plans. In their&nbsp;Urban Design Report they highlighted the project’s ambition to embed itself within Southbank’s evolving cultural fabric.

A central feature of the design is a through-block link connecting Sturt and Dodds Streets, landscaped with native plantings and embedded with universal access ramps.

“The ramp has been thoughtfully integrated as the primary access point, ensuring universal accessibility for all users,” the report noted, with the link offering “a direct response to the urban planning scheme of creating more green spaces within our communities”.

<img alt="Southbank podium" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4d24b1b2-d69c-4a11-a11d-ec6df432221c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium.png?VersionId=geWoJyZDmPSLODZ_.PNJ0LvpOmyyCdpo" />

The building’s podium form responds to the mandatory height limits along Dodds Street and maintains a fine-grain interface to adjoining developments. Above the podium, the tower is articulated with recessed balconies and a focus on views toward the CBD and surrounding arts institutions. A communal rooftop recreation deck and indoor lounge are positioned on level four, adjoining seven apartments and providing over 900 sqm of resident amenity space.

Vehicle access and loading will be provided via Dodds Street, with 155 resident car spaces located across two basement levels and the first three above-ground floors. Bicycle storage is more generous, with 226 spaces distributed across resident, staff and visitor needs.

Rothelowman describes the architecture as “humanist,” with ground-level interfaces designed to encourage social interaction and provide a dignified entry for both residents and passers-by. “All street interfaces are crafted to invite and nurture human connections,” the design report states. “The façade transitions to a human scale, providing an approachable and engaging streetscape”.

Cedar Woods, while well-known for its large communities it develops outside of Australia's capital cities, they have recently developed in Melbourne's inner-ring before. They are approaching completion at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/88-leveson-north-melbourne-88-leveson-street-north-melbourne-vic-3051">88 Leveson</a>, just 15 townhouses in the heart of North Melbourne.

Joel Robinson

Cedar Woods progresses with new apartment plans in Southbank arts precinct

Brisbane developers Core Property Partners and Vector Property Australia has teamed up for Brisbane's newest apartment development.

The duo identified <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/east-brisbane-qld-4169">East Brisbane</a> as their preferred suburb, on the fringe of the Gabba Precinct, where they've just revealed BANKSII, 72 apartments opposite Raymond Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5481]

The one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments will sit in a glass-wrapped building that will also feature a rooftop with an&nbsp;infinity-edge pool, a BBQ area and alfresco dining spaces, sun lounges, and a sauna, as well as a resident-only gym and a ground-floor cafe.

Rhett Williams, Director of Vector Property Australia, said the project will lift the quality of the East Brisbane community and set a new benchmark.

"In Brisbane’s current property landscape, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/banksii-east-brisbane-169-wellington-road-east-brisbane-qld-4169">BANKSII</a> stands out through its emphasis on lifestyle-oriented living, connectivity and sophisticated design," Williams says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5479]

The 10-level building has been designed by MAS Architecture. Their designs were inspired by the native Banksia flower, with the architecture and interiors reflecting the organic symmetry of its namesake flora. MAS has interpreted this throughout the building’s curved form, façade detailing and interior palette.&nbsp;

The building’s flowing geometry and natural tones are complemented by large balconies and floor-to-ceiling glazing, maximising cross-breezes, daylight and views over the city, parklands and river.

“Having a strong narrative for a building helps us architecturally,” MAS noted. "We can choose colours that come off that species of flowers. The trunk and the trees and the flower elements all are now visible in our joinery on the inside and in our architectural finishes on the outside."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5485]

Apartments will feature timber floors, soft porcelain tiles, brushed bronze fittings, and stone benchtops with warm veining.&nbsp;

Kitchens feature premium SMEG appliances and generous storage, while bathrooms have been designed as calming retreats with curved cabinetry and twin sinks in the master ensuites.

The building will feature a suite of rooftop and wellness amenities. Residents will have access to an infinity-edge pool, BBQ and alfresco dining areas, sun lounges and a rooftop sauna.&nbsp;

A residents-only gym will be located on the podium level, while a ground-floor café and landscaped laneway will further activate the site and improve neighbourhood connectivity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5488]

BANKSII will rise from a prime Wellington Road site, with the building oriented to overlook the adjacent Raymond Park and take in extensive city views. It is also on the doorstep of key&nbsp;lifestyle infrastructure, including the future Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, The Gabba stadium, and the planned Brisbane Live arena.&nbsp;

Public transport options, including ferry, bus and rail - including the future Cross River Rail Woolloongabba station - are all nearby, supporting a car-optional lifestyle just minutes from the CBD.

Williams said the team spent over a year searching for the ideal site before securing this location.

"We were attracted to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/east-brisbane-qld-4169">East Brisbane</a> as it is a vibrant and growing community that offers a perfect balance of urban convenience and natural beauty with the parklands and river on our doorstep.”

The project is part of the broader Woolloongabba Games precinct, which is undergoing significant investment in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. This urban renewal, coupled with infrastructure upgrades, is expected to enhance long-term liveability and capital growth in the area.

Given the wide max of configurations, BANKSII is expected to suit everyone from first home buyers and investors to families and downsizers.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136432]

BANKSII sales launch in booming East Brisbane apartment market

The Minns Labor Government will deliver Sydney’s first new heavy rail station in more than a decade – enabling up to 10,000 new homes by rezoning land around Woollahra and Edgecliff stations, right next to the CBD, to tackle the housing crisis and rebalance growth across the city.

Recent reports by the NSW Productivity Commission have warned that Sydney is losing twice as many young people as it is gaining, while also finding that Woollahra is the most feasible Local Government Area (LGA) in New South Wales to build new housing.

Despite this, housing approvals in Woollahra consistently lag well behind other LGAs, and the population has declined by 11 per cent over the past 50 years while Greater Sydney as a whole has grown by 74 per cent.

The new station that will be an eight-minute trip from Sydney CBD, will be located on the Eastern Suburbs train line in Woollahra, where a station build was started in the 1970s but never completed.

To enable the delivery of new homes the NSW Government will lead a rezoning of Woollahra and Edgecliff stations similar to other state led rezonings to allow additional homes to be built around the stations.

Affordable housing will also make up a proportion of development on the site with the final amount of affordable housing required, to be determined as part of the rezoning process.

The area surrounding the new station is within walking distance of major green and recreational space including Cooper, Trumper, Rushcutters Bay and Centennial Parks.

The Eastern Suburbs train line between Bondi Junction and Sydney CBD also has the lowest passenger usage rates during the AM peak of any line on the Sydney network, with only 43 per cent of operating capacity during the AM peak currently being utilised by passengers.

Sydney Water and Infrastructure NSW have confirmed there is capacity in the water and wastewater systems to accommodate the proposed 10,000 dwellings without major upgrades.

The rezoning is expected to take around two years and will further support the Government’s housing targets that rebalance the delivery of new homes around existing infrastructure.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Next stop Woollahra train station - delivering up to 10,000 new homes in the heart of Sydney

<section data-element_type="section" data-id="b086848">
Fresh off completing its mixed-use Malvern project Malvern Collective, Kokoda Property Group has acquired a prime site on Richmond's Bridge Road.

They are planning a mid-rise residential development with&nbsp;integrated wellness amenities and a vibrant ground-floor retail and dining offering.

The site, at&nbsp;487–495 Bridge Road, spans&nbsp;1,650 sqm with 50 metres of dual frontage across Bridge Road and Palmer Street. It is currently leased to Adairs, and has a large retail building and 20 onsite car parks.
</section>

<section data-element_type="section" data-id="534a164">
Kokoda Property Group’s acquisition forms part of a broader phase of growth in Melbourne, building on momentum from the completion of Malvern Collective and the recent purchase of a Burnley Street site for the developer’s first commercial project.&nbsp;

Mark Stevens, Kokoda Property Group’s Founder and Managing Director, said that the company’s Bridge Road site acquisition signals confidence in a city that is re-accelerating.

“Melbourne is regaining momentum,"&nbsp;Stevens said.

"After a cautious period post-COVID, we’re seeing buyer sentiment stabilise and capital leaning back into well-located, quality projects. Victoria now benefits from deep builder capacity and competitive delivery pricing, creating a rare opportunity to bring design-led inner-city developments to market without compromising on craftsmanship.

“Richmond ticks all the boxes for us – connectivity, culture and everyday amenity – making Bridge Road the perfect address for an amenity-rich, multi-use development."

<img alt="Kokoda" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a8de51d-8092-480a-8b7e-e081816692c2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-29%20at%208.54.27%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VRHpV5.6beOu2cieKHWrw3ErMPuVOAuj" />

Envisioned as an “urban lantern” the building will bring a distinctive new presence to Bridge Road with a sculptural retail frontage, designed to honour the street’s heritage character while contributing to its renewal.

Stevens said the acquisition reflects the developer’s commitment to design-led addresses in Melbourne’s inner city.

“Drawing on Richmond’s rich heritage and dynamic character, we’ve envisioned a contemporary building that respects the past while elevating the way people live today. With dual frontages, curated ground-floor spaces, and a focus on wellness, this project will contribute to the neighbourhood’s evolution, appealing to both downsizers and a new generation of professionals.”

Kokoda Property will now progress concept design ahead of a future planning process.
</section>

Mark Stevens, Kokoda Property Group’s Founder and Managing Director, said that the company’s Bridge Road site acquisition signals confidence in a city that is re-accelerating

First look: Kokoda secures Richmond site for new apartment development

Gold Coast developer Drew Group is fast approaching sell-out at its Main Beach apartment development, Lagoon Main Beach.

In the last nine months, Drew Group and sales partner Pezet Matheson have secured 31 sales totalling over $75 million, as the two-tower development advances towards completion under the expert eye of Hutchinson Builders.

“Today's buyers are more discerning than ever," Drew Group Managing Director Jon Drew says.

"It's essential to provide something truly unique that sets a development apart, and we believe Lagoon has achieved just that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=193023]

Just over 50 per cent of recent&nbsp;sales have been to local buyers, reflecting the deep trust and connection within the Gold Coast community that Drew Group has developed over the years.

Demand has been particularly robust at the top end, with two of the three exclusive penthouses already sold, alongside five sub-penthouses. Only seven apartments remain in Lagoon's Signature Series — one&nbsp;penthouse and six sub-penthouses.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=284864]

Drew Group has also removed the much-maligned sunset clause from all contracts at Lagoon. The sunset clause — although rarely invoked, yet on occasion known to have been — allows developers to take back contracts on apartments should the building not be completed within the timeframe specified in the contract.

Pezet Matheson Co-Director Jayde Pezet says the fact Lagoon is&nbsp;within a year of completion, and has no sunset clause in contracts, provides certainty to buyers.

"This is paramount in the current market," Pezet says.

Drew Group has committed to providing the highest level of security inclusions — none more impressive than the Ubiquity Access Control System, a cutting-edge facial recognition technology that is one of the most state-of-the-art keyless entry systems on the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=190743]

One of the biggest drawcards to Lagoon has been the size of the apartments.

"It is unlikely that any future new development in Main Beach will be able to offer such spacious living at this price point," Drew says.

"Today's buyers are more discerning than ever, carefully evaluating amenities like gyms, spas, workspaces, and beach lockers, along with quality finishes. It's essential to provide something truly unique that sets a development apart, and we believe Lagoon has achieved just that."

Lagoon is set to complete construction in mid-2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108747]

Lagoon Main Beach approaches sell-out as local buyers drive $75m in sales

Malcolm Turnbull

<html><body>
Former prime minister Malcolm and his wife Lucy Turnbull didn’t find a buyer during their midweek online auction of their Hunter Valley property, Scotts Creek.
It ended on a $6 million vendor bid. Meares &amp; Associates agent Chris Meares had expected the two-day auction to attract several bids of between $6.5 million to $6.75 million.
The 2000ha farm, 330km from Sydney, has had a history of running merino sheep and breeding quality beef cattle.
The Murrurundi property is in the foothills of the Liverpool Ranges just north of Scone.
In recent years it has carried 500 to 600 breeding cows along with 1000 to 1500 merino ewes and wethers. It is well watered, with creeks, springs and surface dams, complementing the rainfall.
The farm improvements include the three-bedroom manager’s home, two sets of cattle yards, a six-stand wool shed, two sets of sheep yards and two machinery sheds.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/18/SCOTTS3.jpg" alt="">
Another farm, East Rossgole at Aberdeen — inherited from Turnbull’s father Bruce who died in 1982 — will be retained by the Point Piper-based family.
The Turnbulls recently offloaded their redundant Canberra penthouse for $2.06 million, given his departure from parliament.
The two-level, three-bedroom Kingston apartment was bought by Sydney barrister Keith Rewell and is now a $1185-a-week rental. The Turnbulls had bought it off the plan in 2006 for $1.95 million.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
 
 
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Malcolm and Lucy Turnbull's Scotts Creek farm passes in on vendor bid

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Malcolm and Lucy Turnbull are selling one of their Hunter Valley properties, Scotts Creek.
It is <a href="https://www.meares.com.au/search-properties/details/Scotts-Creek" target="_blank">located in the foothills of the Liverpool Ranges</a> above the township of Murrurundi. The couple have asked rural agent Chris Meares at Meares &amp; Associates to conduct an online auction.
The 2000ha farm has had a strong history of running merino sheep and breeding quality beef cattle.
In recent years it has carried 500 to 600 breeding cows along with 1000 to 1500 merino ewes and wethers. It is well watered, with creeks, springs and surface dams, complementing the rainfall.
Over the past 27 years it has average 813mm, with three years, including 2018, where the rainfall has fallen under 600mm.
Meares expected the two-day auction to attract bids of between $6.5 million to $6.75 million.
The couple will retain their East Rossgole property, near Aberdeen, which Mr Turnbull inherited from his father, Bruce, in 1982. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Malcolm and Lucy Turnbull list one of their Hunter Valley properties, Scotts Creek

<html><body><div class="_1665V undefined">
Malcolm Turnbull's former Kingston Foreshore, ACT penthouse has been listed for rent after its recent sale.
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.allhomes.com.au/ah/act/sale-residential/78-11-eastlake-parade-kingston-canberra/1317577780511" target="_blank">Eastlake Parade apartment</a> was sold<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.allhomes.com.au/ah/act/sale-residential/78-11-eastlake-parade-kingston-canberra/1317577780511" data-track-relatedarticle="inarticlelink"> </a>by Berkely Residential, which now <a href="https://www.allhomes.com.au/rent/78-11-eastlake-parade-kingston-canberra-176389368" target="_blank">has it for rent</a>.
<div class="_1665V undefined">
The two-level, three-bedroom penthouse features marble bathrooms.
There is a huge terrace with a covered outdoor kitchen, in-slab heating and polished hardwood floors.
</div>
<div id="plista_widget_outstream">It is described as a "very lightly lived in" with the "most sensational views over Lake Burley Griffin, East Basin and the city".</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The apartment is up for rent for $1,350 to $1,550 a week.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It was tipped to fetch at least $2.5 million, but reported to have been sold for $2 million plus.</div>
The Turnbulls bought the apartment off the plan for reportedly about $1.95 million in 2006.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/turnbull2.jpg" alt="">
Turnbull spent his first four months as prime minister there before moving into The Lodge in January 2016 after renovations.
 
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Malcolm Turnbull's former Canberra penthouse up for rent by recent buyer

<html><body>
<div class="_1665V undefined">
Malcolm Turnbull has had an offer for his "very lightly lived in" Kingston Foreshore, ACT penthouse.
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.allhomes.com.au/ah/act/sale-residential/78-11-eastlake-parade-kingston-canberra/1317577780511" target="_blank">Eastlake Parade apartment</a> had been listed<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.allhomes.com.au/ah/act/sale-residential/78-11-eastlake-parade-kingston-canberra/1317577780511" data-track-relatedarticle="inarticlelink"> </a>by Berkely Residential on AllHomes last September.
It was tipped to fetch at least $2.5 million, but reported to have been sold for $2 million plus.
The Turnbulls bought the apartment off the plan for reportedly about $1.95 million in 2006.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/turnbull2.jpg" alt="">
Turnbull spent his first four months as prime minister there before moving into The Lodge in January 2016 after renovations.
The two-level, three-bedroom penthouse features marble bathrooms, a huge terrace with a covered outdoor kitchen, in-slab heating and polished hardwood floors.
</div>
<div id="plista_widget_outstream">It is described as a "very lightly lived in" with the "most sensational views over Lake Burley Griffin, East Basin and the city".</div>
<div> </div>
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Malcolm Turnbull gets offer on Canberra penthouse

<html><body>
<div class="_1665V undefined">
Malcolm Turnbull has listed his "very lightly lived in" Kingston Foreshore, ACT penthouse for sale.
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.allhomes.com.au/ah/act/sale-residential/78-11-eastlake-parade-kingston-canberra/1317577780511" target="_blank">Eastlake Parade apartment</a> has been listed<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.allhomes.com.au/ah/act/sale-residential/78-11-eastlake-parade-kingston-canberra/1317577780511" data-track-relatedarticle="inarticlelink"> </a>by Berkely Residential on AllHomes.
It is tipped to fetch at least $2.5 million.
The Turnbulls bought the apartment off the plan for about $1.8 million in 2006.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/turnbull2.jpg" alt="">
Turnbull spent his first four months as prime minister there before moving into The Lodge in January 2016 after renovations.
The two-level, three-bedroom penthouse features marble bathrooms, a huge terrace with a covered outdoor kitchen, in-slab heating and polished hardwood floors.
</div>
<div id="plista_widget_outstream">It is described as a "very lightly lived in" with the "most sensational views over Lake Burley Griffin, East Basin and the city".</div>
<div> </div>
<div class="_1ysFk">
<div class="_1665V undefined">
<div class="_1lwW_">The property is open to expressions of interest until October 11.</div>
</div>
</div>
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Malcolm Turnbull lists Canberra penthouse

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The Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and wife Lucy are getting new neighbours in Point Piper.
The neighbours Tiffany and Ben Tilley have found a near $20 million buyer.
It was the Point Piper home that Malcolm and Lucy Turnbull built.
The home, originally known as Gwandalan, was built after the Turnbull's excised some of the land for habrourfront access.
The Turnbulls had paid $7.1 million in 1999, already owning, Le Gai Soleil next door, with the intention of an expansion of their land holding for more harbourside and the jetty.
Ben and Tiffany Tilley paid $13.6 million for the Wunulla Road home in 2011, so the price reflects just shy of six percent annual price growth.
Set on 590 sqm, the Michael Suttor designed home offers unrestricted harbour views across Felix Bay.
The three level entertainer with lift features living spaces that spill on to balconies and landscaped gardens, complete with pool.
The private lowel level is dedicated to a self-contained two bedroom retreat with living space and kitchenette.
.It has been a regular summer rental for the artistic McGrath family
Brad Pillinger at Pillinger Double Bay was marketing the home with $25 million hopes.
Last December the home on the other side of the Turnbulls was sold. The luxury car importer Neville Crichton and wife, Nadi bought the incomplete beachfront property for about $45 million. It was the Mediterranean residence, Deauville that was sold by Michele and Dr Glenn Haifer, a healthcare businessman.
Scotts Honda Motors former owner Paul Scharrer and his wife Pam recently spent $30 million nearby on the south facing O'Neil boathouse, ending almost 60 years of family ownership.
The article was first published in The Sunday Telegraph.
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<div id="google_ads_iframe_/31694718/domain.com.au/news/prestige_4__container__"><iframe title="3rd party ad content" name="google_ads_iframe_/31694718/domain.com.au/news/prestige_4" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" width="1" height="1" data-integralas-id-265028d2-3275-0b2c-5cdc-09391de080ad=""></iframe></div>
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PM Turnbull gets new neighbours as Point Piper's Ben and Tiffany Tilley sell

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GUEST OBSERVER
On Monday night Four Corners asked Australia to consider “What’s wrong with the NBN?”.
Prior to the episode airing, a lot of the debate focused on the NBN’s business model, and that it may not be profitable.
I, however, am not sure if the financial returns need be our biggest concern when referring to public service and critical infrastructure. My answer to the question “what’s wrong with the NBN?” is quite simple: the NBN is inequitable.
A “train wreck”
This week started with a fiery speech delivered by the Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull. He said the NBN was a mistake, blamed the former Labor government for the set up, and described the NBN’s business model as a “calamitous train wreck”.
Turnbull’s remarks triggered a number of responses, including one from former Labor Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd. He attached responsibility of NBN’s failure to the current government, as they “changed the model completely” compared to the original design.
More broadly, the Four Corners program itself created mixed reactions on social media. It was criticised for being “weak”, and not “challenging enough”, but also praised as “exceptional”.
I find it incredibly frustrating to see a national critical infrastructure project diminished to political ping pong. In my opinion, bipartisan commitment is required in order to deliver an equitable NBN for all Australians.
Inequity from the start
Introduced by Labor, the original NBN was announced in April 2009. The plan was to provide terrestrial fibre network coverage for 93% of Australian premises by the end of 2020, with the remaining 7% served by fixed wireless and satellite coverage. In other words, Labor’s NBN was mainly equitable in terms of the advanced technology adopted across the board.
However, research on the early NBN rollout pointed out the issue of timing. Even under the most optimistic estimations, it was going to take over a decade to build the nation-wide infrastructure. So, there were always questions about who was going to get the infrastructure first, and who had to wait over a decade for a similar service.
The results of the 2013 Federal election changed the fate of the NBN. The elected Coalition government decided the NBN rollout should transition from a primarily fibre-to-premises model to a mixed-technology model.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/175122/original/file-20170622-3031-jt1gt9.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
Various/The Conversation, CC BY-D
FTTP = fibre to the premises; FTTN/FFTB = fibre to the node/basement; HFC = Hybrid Fibre-Coaxial
This added to the complexity of the NBN, and created new layers in the inequality concerns around the NBN. In the Coalition’s NBN, many could be waiting quite some years and yet still only receive a lower quality level of access to the service.
Now we’re past the halfway point of NBN delivery, and inequality of the service is clear at two levels.
Large scale
Recent research shows there is a clear digital divide between urban versus regional Australia in terms of access to the NBN. Regional Australia is missing out, both in terms of pace and quality of delivery in the mixed-technology model. This pretty much means that WA and NT are the worst off parts of the nation, because of the spread and dominance of regional and remote communities within them.
“Fine grain” scale
As described on Four Corners, mixed-technology NBN within local government areas and neighbourhoods means some people are better off than others.
Some receive fibre-to-premises service while others have fibre-to-node. The quality of the service also depends on how far someone lives and works from a node, which basically suggests even people on the same fibre-to-nodes service could have varied level of (dis)satisfaction with their internet and phone services.
Research published in 2015 captured some of the frustrations on the ground at the local government level. Differing qualities of internet services available were perceived to have direct implications for local economic development, productivity, and sense of community at the local level.
The two layers of NBN inequality mean that while some customers may be happy with their NBN, many experience a frustrating downgrade of service after moving to the NBN. This may help explain the increase in the number of NBN complaints across the nation.
Let’s start moving forwards
Politicising the NBN and blaming one party over another has been part of the national misfortune around the NBN. But, I believe, the inequality of the NBN is part of a bigger trend in infrastructure decision making in Australia that fails to fully account for the socioeconomic implications. Other examples of this trend are seen in major (controversial) transport projects around the nation (e.g. East West Link in Melbourne, WestConnex in Sydney).
Current and future Australian governments must accept responsibility, and find a way forward for the NBN that is built on the notion of equitable service.
We can start with questions such as who needs the service the most, and who can do the most with it. These two questions refer to the social inclusion and productivity implications of the NBN.
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/86221/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">The NBN, as a publicly funded national infrastructure project, has to be equitable to be a truly nation building platform. As long as it is failing some, it is failing us all as a nation.
Tooran Alizadeh, Senior Lecturer, Director of Urban Design, University of Sydney
This article was originally published on <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/turnbulls-government-must-accept-responsibility-for-delivering-an-equitable-nbn-for-all-australians-86221" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Turnbull's government must accept responsibility for delivering an equitable NBN: Tooran Alizadeh

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The Point Piper home that Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull built, which sits next to their current home, has been listed for sale.
The home, originally known as Gwandalan, was built by Turnbull during his brief fling as a smalltime property developer.
The Turnbulls had paid $7.1 million in 1999, already owning next door. An expansion of their land for more harbourside and jetty was the desired outcome.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/10/19/Turnbull2.jpg" alt="">
It now belongs to Ben and Tiffany Tilley. Ben has been a long close friend of casino mogul James Packer.
The couple had paid $13.6 million for the Wunulla Road home in 2011.
Set on 590 sqm, the Michael Suttor designed home offers unrestricted harbour views across Felix Bay and is moments from Lady Martins Beach.
The three level entertainer with lift features living spaces that spill on to balconies and landscaped gardens, complete with pool.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/10/19/Turnbull3.jpg" alt="">
The private lowel level is dedicated to a self-contained two bedroom retreat with living space and kitchenette.
An upper level master suite features a marble bathroom, bespoke dressing room and its own balcony. 
Brad Pillinger at Pillinger Double Bay is marketing the home with a reported $25 million asking price.
 
 
 
 
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Tilley-owned Point Piper house Malcolm Turnbull built listed

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/77478/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-advanced" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s 2015 National Innovation and Science Agenda was a call to arms for Australia’s research and industry sectors to collaborate and drive our economy.
One and a half years on, you’d be excused for thinking a few pages of notes were missing from Budget 2017. Specifically no comment was made about the vision of where our great “ideas boom” was taking us - setting the scene to unite industry and researchers alike.
For manufacturing there was a glimmer of hope in the announcement of A$100 million to boost innovation, skills and employment in advanced manufacturing.
It addresses people, know-how, process and partnerships. If connected into a strategic plan there could be benefits for businesses as the manufacturing sector redeploys into new activity.
However, it does appear narrowly focused on the here and now for closed and closing automotive manufacturers.
In the absence of linkage with the National Innovation and Science Agenda, the pending 2030 Roadmap from Innovation and Science Australia, and comment on the research and development tax incentive review, the A$100 million may be an expensive band-aid.
Capital upgrades
The funding announcement refers to A$47.5 million for a new Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund to support South Australian and Victorian manufacturers for capital upgrades to “make their businesses more competitive through innovative processes and equipment”.
My experience of project work with manufacturing companies is that capital cost of equipment (capital expenditure, or “CapEx”) has never been a roadblock to growth and success.
When the business case stacks up, CapEx is easily justified. The business case is built upon having the right people and know-how in the business.
In isolation the drive to purchase new equipment presents no value to business, and may even lead to stranded assets. But coupled with people and know-how, opportunities may come.
It’s important to recognise that right now, existing manufacturers are looking at how to utilise and/or redeploy their existing assets. In particular the automotive parts manufacturers are seeking new opportunities that match with existing equipment.
An example is a company that I am working with, Precision Components in South Australia. They are redeploying their large metal presses previously used in car component manufacturing to create components for capturing solar energy at HeliostatSA. It’s a project that has contributed to export capability for HeliostatSA.
Redeployment is the focus for many businesses today, not new equipment.
Small scale research projects
The funding announcement refers to A$4 million to support small scale and pilot research projects in advanced manufacturing, administered through the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre.
This seems like a good move.
Boosting innovation requires broadening the base of businesses looking to grow, and collaboration with university research programs is one way to achieve this. Small grants build confidence in collaborative partnerships, and help to clarify what the innovation is and its future return on investment.
For example, the government’s Innovation Connections scheme has had success in seeding innovation and collaboration.
A recent recipient of an Innovation Connections grant, company Sentek Pty Ltd, is utilising this scheme to fund new product development, and to underpin justification for future and larger investment. I am collaborating with Sentek on this project.
Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) Projects
The funding announcement refers to A$20 million under the Cooperative Research Centre – Projects initiative for larger scale advanced manufacturing research projects.
This funding should be warmly received.
The CRC program links researchers and industry, with the aim of delivering economic value to the industry partner and the sector more broadly. This scheme funds the real costs of research, develops skills in people, and incentivises transitioning knowledge out of the university.
The newly formed CRC Projects scheme is in its infancy, with industry firmly in the driving seat for administering the projects.
From the first two rounds of funding under the CRC Projects, a total of 28 projects have been funded. Each project has seen a co-investment from industry, universities, other research institutes, and the federal government.
Crunching the numbers for the funded projects shows, on average, the government invested A$2.04 million per project. This indicates that the new A$20 million of funding could support around an additional ten projects. This will stimulate activity and add value to our advanced manufacturing sector.
Innovation Labs
The funding announcement refers to A$10 million to establish Innovation Labs in South Australia and Victoria to serve industry.
It’s difficult to know what this means in reality.
Perhaps the purpose is to provide facilities for early stage innovation to be tested at minimal expense, and reduce the risk of the business making significant investment in infrastructure.
Perhaps it will allow researchers or companies to shore up concepts before seeking investment and raising capital. Maybe existing facilities will seek financial support to expand their remit across a diverse advanced manufacturing sector.
A topical example relates to additive manufacturing – generally known as 3D printing. Businesses producing 3D-printed products need a testing ground to conduct certification and accreditation of products prior to sale. The Innovation Labs could fill this void, and complete the link between laboratory research and commercial product.
Engineering excellence
The funding announcement refers to A$5 million investment in engineering student research at universities, technology institutions and in industry to maintain the flow of highly trained engineers to the automotive design and engineering sector.
At the heart of innovation are people.
Engineers represent one discipline that contributes to the pipeline of innovation. An investment to see the continual training of excellent engineers may address the loss of traditional career pathways.
Perhaps the funds will aid in restructuring of engineering education towards emerging opportunities in the health and medical, agriculture, renewable energy and other sectors.
As more details come to light in the coming weeks and months, the Turnbull government’s vision for Australia’s manufacturing future may become clearer.
But the sense from the manufacturers themselves is that they will just get on and do it anyway.
Drew Evans is associate professor of Energy &amp; Advanced Manufacturing, Australian Research Council Future Fellow, University of South Australia and author for The Conversation. He can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/drew-evans-22485" target="_blank">here</a>.
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A glimmer of support for innovation and advanced manufacturing

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/63455/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has sternly told the banks they should pass on the whole of Tuesday’s rate cut - or their chief executives must explain why they are not doing so.
After the Reserve Bank cut the cash rate by 25 basis points to 1.5 percent, the four big banks said they would pass on only part of the reduction. They have also said they are putting up their term deposits rates, to a greater or less extent.
Turnbull said the banks should be fully accountable. “It is up to them. They are big institutions. They operate with a very substantial social licence and they owe it to the Australian people and their customers to explain fully and comprehensively why they have not passed on the full rate cut and they must do so,” he said.
“They can’t just say ‘oh, it’s none or your business. Please don’t tell us how to run our business’.”
The banks should pass on the cut because it reduced their cost of funds, Turnbull said.
His tone was considerably tougher than that of Treasurer Scott Morrison on Tuesday - while Morrison said the banks should pass on the cut, he allowed them more slack than Turnbull has done.
“There is no real argument based on cost of funds that would mean that they shouldn’t pass [the cut on],” Morrison said. “But I do note that they have actually taken another action and that is to lift deposit rates. So you’ve got to look at the deposit rate increase and the mortgage rate decrease as a package of response from at least the two banks that have done that. But it’s for them to make that decision.”
The government is under some pressure on the broad issue of banks' behaviour, with Labor running hard in the election campaign on its call for a royal commission into the banks.
Michelle Grattan is professorial fellow, University of Canberra, and author for The Conversation. She can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/michelle-grattan-20316" target="_blank">here</a>.
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