Sun Property Group (SPG) has taken a major step to reinforce its commitment to consumer trust by securing Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) from Resilience Insurance for its nearly completed Willoughby development on Sydney’s Lower North Shore.

The boutique project, Aurora, comprising 12 apartments and a ground-floor commercial space, is one of few in the region to adopt the forward-thinking insurance model—offering a point of difference in a competitive market.

For Cameron Johnson, General Manager at Sun Property Group, the decision to adopt LDI was rooted in the company’s long-standing philosophy of maintaining a highly personalised relationship with its end users.

“We’ve always taken ownership over our product,” Johnson said. “Introducing LDI is not just about peace of mind for the buyer—it’s about raising the internal bar. It becomes the baseline for how we do things going forward.”

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While hundreds of developers and builders have taken out an LDI policy from Resilience Insurance, the insurance is still relatively new to Australia. Johnson says he sees significant future potential with LDI nationwide, with both&nbsp;regulatory and market frameworks starting to evolve to support its wider use in class two buildings.

“When we started the Willoughby project, LDI was still just a concept being floated by the Building Commissioner’s office," Johnson says.

"Delays in the construction timeline gave us the unique opportunity to adopt it as the product became more available in late 2023."

That timing aligned with a shift in construction contractors on the project, which opened the door for a more collaborative and considered implementation of the insurance. According to Johnson, Resilience Insurance was proactive and solution-oriented.

“It wasn’t just about us buying a product off the shelf. It was a dialogue—how can we work together to deliver something that meets both of our needs?” he added.

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LDI covers major structural defects for up to 10 years post-completion and offers an alternative to the traditional developer bond held under the Department of Fair Trading’s scheme. SPG prudently factor in a two per cent cost profile for such measures into its feasibility, treating it as “business as usual.”

“What LDI does is show the consumer that we’re front-ending our responsibilities—design, delivery, documentation, execution. That whole chain of custody is assessed and independently reviewed throughout construction. It’s a rubber stamp on quality,” Johnson said.

In a region where no other nearby developments currently carry LDI, the move also creates a market differentiator. While some projects may carry an iCIRT rating, few offer the depth of protection and oversight that LDI provides, especially outside of publicly listed organisations.

Aurora is being brought to market by Henry Burke of McGrath Projects. With the recent cut in interest rates Burke expects that many first home buyers and investors will jump at the chance to buy in Aurora due to its convenient location, fantastic retail amenity, picturesque parks with leafy walks, and excellent transport connections with only one stop to Sydney CBD. He expects a local owner-occupier to secure the standout penthouse which offers 175 sqm of internal space and further 200 sqm of outdoor space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=205010]

Johnson says Aurora residents will not only benefit from the first right insurance policy, which means action is taken immediately rather than often long and complicated battles as developers and builders point fingers at each other as to who created the issue, but from how it can benefit the strata communities of the building.

Many buyers, especially first-time apartment owners, have limited understanding of shared infrastructure or the responsibilities of Owners Corporations. LDI adds an important layer of education, structure, and protection.

“People want to move in and enjoy what they’ve bought. But when things go wrong, that’s when emotions and stress levels rise. The insurance policy gives owners a clearer path to resolution—an assured, regulated compensation process. It also helps equip owners and managers with the knowledge they need to maintain the building properly.”

The insurance includes tools such as service penetration matrices and access documentation—going far beyond standard build drawings. Johnson says it’s about delivering not just a home, but a sustainable, manageable asset.

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Sun Property Group continues to build on its strong track record across Sydney’s Lower North Shore, with an upcoming major development of its Bowen Street, Chatswood landholdings and additional projects underway in Melbourne. The team recently completed its debut Melbourne apartment project, The Brookville in Toorak, showcasing their commitment to delivering high-quality, design-led communities.

In a region where no other nearby developments currently carry LDI, the move also creates a market differentiator

Joel Robinson

Sun Property Group approaches completion of Willoughby's first apartment development with 10-year Latent Defects Insurance

Renowned developer-builder DASCO has unveiled its much-anticipated new development in the heart of Epping.

The architectural brief for Turner Studio was to “create a community where residents are completely immersed in a paradise for the senses.”

The result is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/senso-epping-242-244-beecroft-road-epping-nsw-2121">Senso</a>, a series of buildings that have been oriented around an unrepeatable 10,000 sqm-plus site to create a facility-laden, landscape-first precinct, something of which Epping and its surrounds have not seen before.

There are 479 apartments available in a variety of floorplans across the five buildings, a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in addition to a curated penthouse collection.

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The apartments have been designed to appeal to the owner-occupier market, with generous floorplans, premium materials, and optional upgrades including integrated refrigeration, bespoke joinery, and motorised blinds.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, who builds its own developments, is once again bringing peace of mind to its clients by taking the 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy offered by Resilience Insurance, which protects buyers against any structural or waterproofing issues for 10 years post completion of the building. This insurance can only be taken out by the builder or developer and not by individual apartment owners.

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DASCO is known for creating more than just apartments — they create places where people connect. Senso will have over 4,000 sqm of resort-inspired communal amenity in the form of two rooftop pools, a celestial outdoor cinema, wellness club, sensory walk, and an observation deck, in addition to multiple BBQ and outdoor communal areas on multiple levels, intended to deliver a complete lifestyle offering within the residential environment.

There will be over 800 sqm of retail space on street level, which will likely be run as hospitality venues.

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Located adjacent to the new Epping Town Centre masterplan, and just a five-minute walk from Epping Metro Station, Senso offers seamless access to Macquarie Park, Chatswood and the Sydney CBD. Families who are interested in the large two- and three-bedroom apartments are within proximity to several regarded educational institutions including Macquarie University, James Ruse Agricultural High, and Cheltenham Girls School.

The project also leverages Epping’s growing dining and retail precinct, proximity to Macquarie Centre, and access to natural assets including Terrys Creek walking trails and Boronia Park.

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With a 33-year track record and over 7,000 dwellings delivered, DASCO continues to develop and build; a business model that enables integrated delivery and peace of mind, especially when Senso is backed by Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), providing 10 years of protection for buyers at no additional cost.

The launch of Senso Epping reinforces DASCO’s active pipeline of Sydney-based developments at a time when the market is increasingly focused on owner-occupier appeal, delivery confidence, and long-term quality.

DASCO is partnering on Senso Epping with leading Australian alternative asset management firm Metrics, which has more than $30 billion in assets under management.

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DASCO reveals Senso, Epping’s first resort-style apartment development

Preliminary data by research giant Charter Keck Cramer reveals a 54 per cent decline in Build to Sell apartments across Australia's capital cities, while the Build to Rent boom continues with a 378 per cent increase over the last five years.

Charter Keck Cramer's upcoming National State of the Market Report - Key Metropolitan Areas, scheduled for release in September, will reveal&nbsp;a dramatic transformation in apartment supply patterns across Australia's capital cities between FY2016-2020 and FY2021-2025.

The Build to Sell (BTS) apartment sector has experienced a substantial contraction, with total supply falling by 54 per cent compared to the previous five-year period. The decline represents a reduction of 149,200 apartments across all capital cities.

<img alt="BTS Charter Keck Cramer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3db2ddf3-e7c0-481f-b8b9-63efb365cb80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-20%20at%2011.26.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bsQl8inhZA7FeiPamnGvw1tse0obBdSd" />

Sydney led the downturn with a decrease of 73,600 apartments, followed by Melbourne (-42,800) and Brisbane (-26,800). Perth and Adelaide also recorded significant declines of 6,400 and 2,400 apartments respectively. Only Gold Coast and Canberra bucked the trend, with modest increases of 500 and 2,300 apartments.

In stark contrast, the Build to Rent (BTR) sector has emerged as a major force in the apartment market, recording a remarkable 378% increase in supply. This growth added 8,590 apartments across the capital cities during FY2021-2025. Melbourne dominated BTR growth with 6,160 additional apartments, while Sydney contributed 2,100 units. Brisbane and Canberra also recorded growth of 800 and 330 apartments respectively. Gold Coast and Perth recorded minor declines, while Adelaide maintained steady levels.

<img alt="BTR CKC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca13ffd4-ab93-4828-afd2-4c3dccbd2b51" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-20%20at%2011.28.54%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=SXNnpcJuFD36ViWOwF6izBBqcQc3NWao" />

“These preliminary findings indicate a fundamental shift in Australia's apartment development landscape, with traditional Build to Sell models giving way to institutional Build to Rent developments,” said Richard Temlett, Charter Keck Cramer’s National Executive Director of Research.

"This transition reflects changing investor preferences, regulatory environments and housing affordability challenges across major metropolitan areas.”

The complete Charter Keck Cramer National State of the Market Report – Key Metropolitan Areas will provide comprehensive analysis of these trends, their underlying drivers and implications for developers, investors and policymakers when released in September.

Build to Sell apartment supply drops 54% in five years across Australian capital cities

Verso Development Group is seeking to bring over 1,100 apartments to the heart of Brisbane's Toowong, with plans filed for a $1 billion, triple tower development known as Toowong Central.

The landmark urban regeneration project "aims to reshape the core of Brisbane’s inner-west riverside suburb."

Covering over 1.4-hectares across&nbsp;Sherwood Road, High Street, and Jephson Street, Toowong Central has been designed by KHA and will comprise three towers rising 49, 55, and 58 levels.

<img alt="Toowong Central" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48611e3d-7123-4b99-b2cb-bfa4bc98024f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenities.png?VersionId=yKBexB.BgCkq4OET8fHDkWs0d3DjxOKJ" />

According to the Urban Context Report prepared by Urbis, Toowong Central is positioned as a “city-defining precinct reclaiming Toowong as ‘the best destination in the west’,” with a vision to deliver density differently, strengthen Toowong’s identity, and lead subtropical urban design.

There will be a wide range of apartment configurations, from one-bedrooms to five-bedroom penthouses, as well as short-term accomodation offerings. The design prioritises pedestrian permeability, with an activated public realm featuring a central civic plaza, laneways, and street-level retail and dining.

“The central square’s structure, programming, scale and location creates a social anchor - shaped by its edges, flexible for use, and animated by a diversity of experiences throughout the day and into the evening,” the Urban Context Report noted, reinforcing the project's ambition to become a vibrant community destination.

Design excellence was pursued through an international design competition, attracting entries from renowned practices such as UNStudio and BIG. KHA’s winning design distinguished itself with a ceremonial approach to the public realm, integrating terraces, tiered seating, and green infrastructure to promote social interaction and resilience.

The development builds upon two existing approvals: the 25- and 20-storey towers of the Aviary Toowong proposal, and a separate 25- and 24-storey approval at 88 Jephson Street. Consolidation of these fragmented landholdings under a precinct-wide approach allows for increased community value and cohesive urban integration.

Urbis Director Nicholas Stevenson said Toowong Central will bridge the gap in Toowong's current experience, unlocking the potential of the wider precinct.

"Overcoming experiential constraints and leveraging contextual advantages – Toowong Central will redefine Brisbane's inner west.”

<img alt="Toowong Central" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73f7a702-625d-452d-9df2-30a0863ac1e8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/master.png?VersionId=TZdh6wxGC_8IIroXpdkZfuhlS8mFZnea" />

Toowong Central’s ambition extends beyond residential and commercial outcomes. Uses under consideration include a world-class hotel, university facilities, a museum, and health and wellness services, reflecting its role as a western gateway to Brisbane’s growing innovation corridor between the CBD and the University of Queensland.

Urbis Managing Partner James Tuma said Brisbane has no greater opportunity to showcase the future of urban living than Toowong – a sustainable, economically vibrant, and people-centric place that embodies the best of Brisbane.

[The plans] gives us a glimpse into our future as a globally relevant, youthful, entrepreneurial, and distinctly subtropical city.”

$1 billion Toowong Central to deliver 1,100 apartments to undersupplied Brisbane market

In <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/runaway-bay-qld-4216">Runaway Bay</a>, new townhouse-scale waterfront residences are rare - but ones built to the standards found on Sovereign Island are almost unheard of.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/ocean-suites-on-jennifer-10-12-jennifer-avenue-runaway-bay-qld-4216">Ocean Suites on Jennifer</a>&nbsp;changes that, delivering a calibre of construction and detailing that places its seven villas well above the typical market offering in this northern Gold Coast pocket.

Ocean Suites on Jennifer will be move-in ready before Christmas this year, giving buyers the chance to spend the summer on the water in one of Runaway Bay’s rare new waterfront residences.&nbsp;

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The development is a collaboration between <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/stuart-osman">Stuart Osman Design</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sand-side-developments">Sand Side Developments</a>, with construction by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/alroe-constructions">Alroe Constructions</a>.

Architect Stuart Osman says the intent from the outset was to create a home people would be drawn to. “When you build anything, the design is to make you want to go hang out in this house,” he says.&nbsp;

Ocean Suites on Jennifer’s design features a front façade softened with planter boxes, rear pool areas, and rooftop decks looking over the water.&nbsp;

Inside, voids and high skylights bring daylight deep into the centre of each home, while ceiling heights of 2.85 metres maintain a strong sense of volume.

Each four-level residence spans 345 to 388 sqm, with layouts accommodating multi-generational living - a ground-floor bedroom suite for older family members and upper levels for the rest of the household. A lift connects all floors.

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For Andrew Erwin, Director at NPA, the project’s appeal lies in both its location and the detail in execution.&nbsp;

"At Ocean Suites, you’ve got a canal-front setting with direct Broadwater access and a level of finish you’d normally only see in the city’s most prestigious addresses. The four-level layouts, the glass-framed living areas, the private pools, even the extended kitchens, every part of it has been designed with the buyer in mind,” he says.

Those buyers have so far been a mix of Gold Coast locals and interstate purchasers, many seeking a lock-up-and-leave holiday home or a downsized residence without sacrificing space for visiting family.&nbsp;

Older households with teenage children are a recurring profile, drawn to layouts that support multi-generational living and the ability to host extended stays.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214432]

Material selection reinforces the project’s quality-first ethos, with every home appointed to a premium standard. Kitchens and ensuites feature engineered stone surfaces, complemented by prestige oak engineered timber floors, Victorian ash hardwood staircases, and soft loop-pile carpet.

Premium lighting, statement pendants, ceiling fans, and Fujitsu ducted air conditioning elevate both comfort and design. Each residence also includes a suite of high-end appliances as standard - Fisher &amp; Paykel integrated fridges, Bosch ovens, induction cooktops and dishwashers, Vintec wine fridges, and Franke sinks.

Beyond the interiors, residents enjoy an enviable lifestyle with rooftop terraces, private plunge pools, fire pit areas, outdoor showers, smart home automation, laundry chutes, and private pontoons.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214452]

With no additional upgrade costs, Sand Side Developments underscores its no-shortcuts approach, delivering homes where luxury and amenity come as standard.

Osman adds that the kitchen has been designed as “the main hub of the house” with six metres high skylights above a galley-style layout that “makes it feel bigger, brighter, whiter” and “brings light into the centre of the home.”

Both architect and builder emphasise a shared commitment to delivering the intended design without compromise. “Working with Alroe’s structural team and their construction team, it’s been great to make sure that the look and feel that was originally intended is the result achieved at the end of the project,” Osman says.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214453]

Outdoor living has been given equal consideration, with rooftop terraces designed for entertaining with a fire pit and bar, and spacious undercover patios featuring private plunge pools.

The marine access is as carefully executed as the homes themselves. An eight-metre gangway leads to a six-metre private pontoon capable of mooring vessels up to 30 feet, just 300 metres by water from the Broadwater.&nbsp;

Even the orientation of each villa has been optimised to capture long views down the canal, across the Broadwater, and south to Main Beach.

With construction in its final stages, just three of the seven villas remain, priced from $3.365 million to $3.695 million.

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Sovereign Island standards come to Runaway Bay with Ocean Suites on Jennifer

Melbourne off the plan townhouses

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/beulah">Beulah</a>&nbsp;has unveiled its latest release of exclusive homes in its sustainable Brunswick townhouse development, Brunswick Established.

The collection, known as ‘The Courtyard House’, has been created in collaboration with Six Degrees Architects to meet the evolving needs of modern families.&nbsp;

With a central courtyard at its heart, the design reimagines the possibilities of multi-generational living, blending flexibility, sustainability and personalisation within a heritage setting. Distinct from a traditional garden, the courtyard delivers natural light, fresh air and a generous sense of space, without the upkeep of a backyard.

Comprised of 23 two-storey townhouses, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/brunswick-established-23-hodgson-st-brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick Established</a> offers multiple typologies of townhomes to suit different living requirements, allowing residents to grow in place - majority include ground-floor bedrooms for accessibility, while others, known as the ‘The Courtyard House’, provide a unique, flexible detached space separated by a courtyard.

Responsible for both the architecture and interior design, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/six-degrees-architects">Six Degrees</a>’ holistic approach enabled the team to ensure an intrinsic link between the design outcomes; a seamless, harmonious flow from the outside to within.

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“The modern home should flow from inside to outside - the courtyard provides a space which joins the different parts of the home together as the central outside space of the home,” explains Six Degrees Director, Peter Malatt.

“The courtyard is a model used since ancient times, transforming the home from an object within a space to an object enclosing space. It acts as both the visual and social heart of the home, a space to gather, reflect, or simply pause, offering a moment of calm within a busy urban context."

“Courtyards also offer a deeply cultural and emotional resonance, with their timeless presence across human history. They connect us to the past, while shaping how we live today

Malatt says the courtyard also operates as a micro-climate, which can retain heat in winter and be a shaded haven in summer.

"The ability to take warmed or cooled air into the home from the courtyard space is a great way to improve internal health and minimise energy use through heating and cooling. In a compact urban environment like Brunswick, courtyards are also a clever solution - bringing light, greenery and nature into denser living formats while maintaining a strong sense of privacy and connection."

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This concept resonated strongly with early downsizers who recently purchased one of the Courtyard homes at Brunswick Established for themselves and their two adult sons, aged 21 and 24.

“We’re excited to have a home that gives us flexibility as our lives evolve, whether it’s our sons living with us as they finish university, or us being able to lock up and travel. Having separate spaces connected by the courtyard is perfect for our family dynamic, especially as we value our independence but also want to stay close,” they shared.

The couple, who also share their home with two dogs and two cats, highlighted the benefits of multi-generational living in a courtyard home.

“Our sons help care for the pets, we enjoy cooking and spending time together, and the courtyard means we have light, greenery, and privacy all in one. We love that Brunswick Established has thought about sustainability and customisation in such a detailed way, it’s rare to find that in a project.”

Beulah’s approach to design customisation at Brunswick Established, allowing residents to adapt layouts to their lifestyle, has been a major drawcard for buyers seeking homes that evolve alongside them. The detached living space offers flexibility to suit changing needs, whether as a studio, guest retreat, or home office, while maintaining a close link to the main residence, allowing family members to come together or enjoy privacy when needed.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136451 project_image_fid=275570]

Malatt added that the&nbsp;homes have been designed for residents’ well-being, allowing couples and families to ‘grow’ in their own homes while ensuring they meet their needs for generations to come.

"Purchasers usually experience multiple lifestyle stages within one home, and we’re looking forward to seeing these unique homes come to life."

As part of this forward-thinking approach, Beulah will also host an exclusive event, The Property Market Decanted, on Wednesday 27 August at The Commons Café &amp; Cocktail Bar, Melbourne. The evening will feature insights from leading property and finance experts on Melbourne’s market outlook and long-term wealth creation strategies, particularly for multi-generational households.&nbsp;

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Beulah release sustainable courtyard townhouse collection at Brunswick Established

Melbourne developer <a href="/developers/beulah">Beulah</a> has seen an uptick in interstate buyers at its sustainable, heritage-focused townhouse project, <a href="/new-townhouses/brunswick-established-23-hodgson-st-brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick Established</a>.

Five recent purchasers are looking to move to Victoria and into the homes when they complete in late 2026.

The purchasers come as&nbsp;homebuyer sentiment in the state reached a three-year high just last month, rebounding to outright optimism in March. The Westpac Consumer Sentiment Index showed a 15.3 per cent jump to 106 points. This followed an 11 per cent gain in February - the biggest across all states.&nbsp;

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Brunswick Established’s new interstate residents comprise a mix of early downsizers, professionals, business owners, retirees, and multigenerational families.

Although buyer demographics vary, purchasers were drawn to the project for its focus on sustainability and circular living and the rare level of customisation encouraged. This allows residents to shape homes around evolving life stages, from complete kitchen redesigns to home pottery studios and intergenerational layouts.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136451 project_image_fid=270371]

Beulah co-founder Adelene Teh said she was confident the project would be well-received by prospective buyers looking for sustainable, circular, and customisable living, but the team was thrilled with the rapid uptake of the townhomes, from both local and interstate buyers.&nbsp;

“To be able to accommodate a vast array of family make-ups, each with individual needs and preferences, all within the one cohesively-designed development, is a triumph the team is very proud of," Teh says.

"We haven’t yet seen this done to such a degree, especially with Brunswick Established’s deep commitment to sustainable and circular living at each touchpoint."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136451 project_image_fid=278310]

There has been a buyer who wants to live around the corner from her family and grandchildren who has installed a lift to suit her physical needs. A Queenslander family is moving out of their family home to enjoy the Melbourne lifestyle and be closer to their family&nbsp;in Brunswick and their business’s head office.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Located at 23 Hodgson Street, Brunswick Established comprises 23 unique townhomes designed by <a href="/architects/six-degrees-architects">Six Degrees Architects</a>.

Beulah and Six Degrees have created a residential precinct that celebrates Brunswick’s historic character and champions an advanced model for sustainable urban living.&nbsp;

Brunswick Established is currently under construction. A limited number of three and four-bedroom townhomes remain, priced from $1.87 million, with up to $146,000 in stamp duty savings available.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136451]

Brunswick Established’s new interstate residents comprise a mix of early downsizers, professionals, business owners, retirees, and multigenerational families

Beulah’s Brunswick Established draws interstate buyers as VIC sentiment surges

As Melbourne’s population continues to grow and demand for housing intensifies, large-scale, well-connected developments close to the CBD are becoming increasingly important.&nbsp;

One project leading the charge is <a href="/new-apartments/bradmill-yarraville-355-359-francis-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Bradmill</a> in <a href="/developments/yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville</a> — a landmark regeneration of the former denim factory site into a thriving, masterplanned neighbourhood.

I recently caught up with&nbsp;Theo Della Bosca, Development Director at <a href="/developers/frasers-property">Frasers Property</a>, for an in-depth conversation about one of Melbourne’s most anticipated communities.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W9nu7DBsUHE?si=9tD9zRL7rDbHIDgU" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Bradmill Yarraville, on an unrepeatable 26 hectares just six kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, will become a&nbsp;vibrant, walkable neighbourhood, blending heritage, sustainability, and modern convenience.&nbsp;

It will deliver up to 1,500 new homes, a mix of townhouses and apartments. The first homes being brought to market are three and four-bedroom townhouses designed by <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, which are already attracting significant interest, <a href="/news/vic/why-families-are-flocking-to-townhouses-in-bradmill-yarraville?hash=92f39f1bd10345c973a925313699a08bdbad509d">particularly from families and downsizers</a>.

Families are drawn to the project for its variety of housing options, generous open space, proximity to quality schools, and the convenience of having a shopping centre within the community. Investors see strong potential in the area’s rental market and appreciate the low-maintenance, high-quality homes on offer. First home buyers are also showing strong interest, particularly because opportunities to purchase this level of housing so close to the city are rare.

Later stages will introduce a range of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with all homes&nbsp;within the community to be fully electric, as part of Frasers Property’s commitment to sustainability.

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A key feature of the Bradmill masterplan is its mix of residential, retail, and lifestyle amenity — much of it set within repurposed heritage buildings.&nbsp;

The upcoming Bradmill Quarter retail precinct, which will front Francis Street and include a major supermarket, 15 specialty shops, a childcare centre, and a medical centre, will bring a convenient hub to Bradmill residents.

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Another standout feature of the community is Bradmill Social — a resident-exclusive lifestyle precinct that will breathe new life into the site’s historic buildings.&nbsp;

“We’ve got a proofing house down there which will be converted to a wellness centre that will feature a yoga Pilates space, gym, pool, sauna, spa, outdoor barbecue area, basketball half court — so it’s got it all going on,” Theo says.&nbsp;

The iconic boiler house, a well-known landmark in Melbourne’s inner west visible from the West Gate Freeway, is set to be transformed into a vibrant lifestyle hub. The space will include areas for children’s play, a cinema, media and co-working spaces, lounge and dining facilities, bookable rooms for family events, an outdoor barbecue terrace, a community garden, and even dog-washing facilities — offering a wide range of amenities designed to foster connection and convenience for future residents.

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Green space is also central to the project’s design, with an open space reserve threading through the community from west to east and connecting directly to the expansive 18.5-hectare McIvor Reserve.

Bradmill is being delivered in stages, with <a href="/builders/figurehead-construction">Figurehead Construction</a> currently working on stage one. Residents are expected to move into the first townhouses&nbsp;before Christmas.

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Michael Bird

Everything a buyer needs to know about Bradmill Yarraville: Five minutes with Frasers Property Development Director Theo Della Bosca

Golden Age Group&nbsp;has appointed Figurehead as the construction partner for its Box Hill South townhouse development, Wembley Hill.

The first release of the 143 townhouses at the Hay Street development will start construction soon, and are expected to be completed in Q3 2026.

The appointment of <a href="/builders/figurehead-construction">Figurehead Construction</a> is the second time Golden Age has partnered with the Melbourne-based firm to deliver a residential community, following the successful completion of the Floret townhome project in Glen Waverley.

&nbsp;

"We are excited to partner again with Figurehead Construction for the construction of <a href="/new-townhouses/wembley-hill-15-hay-street-box-hill-south">Wembley Hill</a>, a development that embodies our commitment to creating sustainable, high-quality living spaces," Golden Age Group Development Director, Damien Hehir, said.

"This project is set to redefine modern living in Melbourne's eastern suburbs, supplying families and home buyers an opportunity to invest in a vibrant, connected community."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104627 project_image_fid=222327]

<a href="/developers/golden-age-group">Golden Age</a>&nbsp;has released the next stage of Rothelowman-designed townhouses. The new collection, Amber, draws&nbsp;inspiration from the liquidambar trees planted throughout the streetscapes, creating vibrant green links that connect different sections of the community masterplan.

Families and couples have been the most active buyers at Wembley Hill, drawn to&nbsp;its prime location amenities, sustainability focus, and design-led, cost-effective living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104627 project_image_fid=222319]

Sustainability and design are at the heart of the project, imagined by <a href="/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> and acclaimed landscape architects <a href="/landscape-architect/tcl">TCL</a>. The expansive 13,000 sqm of landscaped gardens, tree canopies, and native greenery create a transition into the nearby Gardiner’s Creek Trail.

TCL’s design responds to the adjacent KooyongKoot (Gardiners Creek) corridor, with a planting scheme that supports local biodiversity, flora and fauna. A rich mix of new trees, shrubs, and grasses contributes to the project’s long-term ecological and community value.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=104627]

Families and couples have been the most active buyers at Wembley Hill, drawn to its prime location amenities, sustainability focus, and design-led, cost-effective living

Golden Age Group appoints Figurehead to build Wembley Hill, Box Hill South townhouses

Construction has commenced on&nbsp;Brunswick Established,&nbsp;Beulah’s sustainable, heritage-focused townhome project.

<a href="/developers/beulah">Beulah</a>&nbsp;has appointed&nbsp;<a href="/builders/level-10">Level 10</a>&nbsp;to build the 23 townhouses on Hodgson Street which recently won Gold at the International Design Awards in the Residential Architecture/Sustainable Home category.

Designed by <a href="/architects/six-degrees-architects">Six Degrees Architects</a>,&nbsp;Brunswick Established has been designed to "celebrates Brunswick’s historic character and champions an advanced model for sustainable urban living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136451 project_image_fid=333959]

Throughout the construction phase, the project team will aim to recycle and repurpose components of the existing building on site, historically home to one of the earliest clothing factories in Brunswick from the 1920s.&nbsp;

Bricks, where possible, will be recycled and used for architectural features, while salvaged timber will be repurposed and incorporated into pergolas. Collectively, this will not only significantly reduce construction waste but will actively reduce the project’s carbon footprint and reduce embodied carbon from using new materials.&nbsp;

A team of structural engineers and heritage specialists have started working together with Level 10 to retain essential heritage walls, using a delicate process of propping the building and integrating it into the new architecture.&nbsp;

Adelene Teh, Co-Founder of Beulah, said <a href="/new-townhouses/brunswick-established-23-hodgson-st-brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick Established</a> embodies Beulah’s commitment to creating homes that harmonise with their surroundings and reflect the unique character of Brunswick.&nbsp;

“With Level 10’s exceptional craftsmanship and alignment with our vision, we are excited to see this project come to life, delivering multi-generational residences that will become a meaningful addition to the Brunswick community," Teh says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136451 project_image_fid=270371]

"The project has seen strong interest from buyers, with a mix of downsizers, business owners, and professionals snapping up the majority of the project, and we expect to see the remaining townhomes to sell quickly within the coming months off the back of recent State Government announcements, including savings to stamp duty.

"This, coupled with the forecasted interest rate cuts, is helping to increase buyer sentiment, with a buzz returning to the market and consumer confidence growing. "

Teh says there has been local and interstate buyers purchase, with majority drawn to the sustainable features of the project as well as the ability to completely customise their home.

"This unique and personalised approach is really what matters to the residents, and we are excited to see their visions come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136451 project_image_fid=277190]

Beulah’s decision to engage Level 10 for Brunswick Established was driven by their proven expertise in townhome development and shared values in sustainable construction.&nbsp;

“The team at Level 10 brings extensive experience in managing heritage sites and excels in building quality homes with thoughtful precision, aligning seamlessly with Six Degrees Architects’ vision for a progressive yet heritage-sensitive design. The result will be a collaboration that sets new standards for environmentally responsible construction, blending timeless architectural elements with the forward-thinking principles of circular living."

A limited amount of three and four-bedroom townhomes remain, priced from $1.87 million, with up to $146,000 in stamp duty Savings available*.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136451]

Adelene Teh, Co-Founder of Beulah, said Brunswick Established embodies Beulah’s commitment to creating homes that harmonise with their surroundings and reflect the unique character of Brunswick

Construction commences on Beulah’s Brunswick Established 

Above Zero and joint venture partner Wilbow Group are set to launch Glyndon, 13 architecturally designed homes in Camberwell.

Designed by&nbsp;Cera Stribley with interiors by Lauren Tarrant, <a href="/new-townhouses/glyndon-64-66-glyndon-road-camberwell">Glyndon</a> has been over three years in the making.&nbsp;Rooted in the area’s rich architectural heritage,&nbsp;Glyndon reinterprets Federation-era elegance through a contemporary lens.

Classic European influences merge with modern principles to create timeless yet low-maintenance homes that prioritise both form and function.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146719 project_image_fid=341549]

Nestled on a quiet and prestigious tree-lined street, Glyndon enjoys a sought-after position within walking proximity to Fordham Village, with boutique shopping, dining, and leafy parklands just a short walk away. Families and downsizers are likely to show the most interest given how close some of Melbourne’s leading private and public schools are.

Glyndon marks Lauren Tarrant’s debut in multi-residential design. The interiors were inspired by classic Parisian residences and will feature intricate stonework, bespoke flooring patterns, and an elevated material palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146719 project_image_fid=341542]

AJ Batra, Managing Director of Above Zero, says Glyndon is designed for living, and a sequal to their&nbsp;Rondure House project.

"We’ve drawn on Camberwell’s architectural heritage to create homes that seamlessly blend modern elegance with timeless Federation-era influences, all elevated by interiors inspired by classic French design," Batra says.

"These residences redefine multi-residential living, delivering a level of detail and materiality that hasn’t been seen before in this space. Glyndon is a home for those who appreciate design, craftsmanship, and enduring quality.”&nbsp;

Each home offers a private, flexible retreat in the secure basement. The&nbsp;customisable area allows residents to create a private health and wellness sanctuary, complete with a sauna and plunge bath, or a multi-dimensional family retreat with a wine bar and cinema.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146719 project_image_fid=341544]

Designed with longevity and sustainability in mind, Glyndon maximises natural light and achieves a 7.5-star energy rating for an effortlessly efficient home.&nbsp;

“Designed for living, built for life—Glyndon encapsulates our commitment to crafting homes that are not only architecturally striking but also enduring and secure," Batra added.

"These are residences designed to evolve with our residents, offering a foundation for a beautifully considered lifestyle."

Priced from $2.4 million, Glyndon officially launches in May 2025. Construction is set to begin in Q3 2025.&nbsp;

Jellis Craig Projects Director Stephen Bowtell is selling Glyndon.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146719]

Above Zero to launch Glyndon in Camberwell

Sales have launched at Hali Dromana, the rare beachside townhouse development by Samuel Property on the Mornington Peninsula.

Samuel Property, led by Illan Samuel, once again partnered with the architectural excellence of Cera Stribley, one of Melbourne's most sought-after architecture firms, to design the 70 three and four-bedroom townhouses. The two worked together on Louise, Samuel's other development just off St Kilda Road.

Samuel says <a href="/new-townhouses/hali-dromana-105-111-point-nepean-road-dromana-vic-3936">Hali Dromana</a> is a homage to the beloved 1960s holiday home where Australian summers were defined.

"Hali will give <a href="/developments/dromana-vic-3936">Dromana</a> a fresh identity that will stand the test of time," Samuel says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147112 project_image_fid=330350]

There have been three distinct buyer groups since the project launched, according to Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair.

The most active group has been those who already live on the Mornington Peninsula and are looking for lower-maintenance living, closer to the beach.

"These buyers have been locals for years, whether from Rosebud, Safety Beach, or Red Hill," Blair says.

"They want to rid themselves of maintaining a 1,000-plus sqm block and downsize to something brand new, closer to the beach. They're approaching retirement and want a more connected, lock-up-and-leave lifestyle—they don't want to get in their car and drive to the beach anymore."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147112 project_image_fid=330358]

There's also been interest from those living in Melbourne's affluent eastern suburbs, who are planning for both a weekender and, potentially, a future beachside retirement home.

"These buyers will likely rent the home in the short to medium term and use it as their weekender throughout the year, but they're buying for a future permanent bolthole on the Mornington Peninsula."

What’s notable is that most of those who have shown interest have a significant connection to Dromana, Blair says.

"They either holidayed or grew up in Dromana as children, and they have historic ties to the area. Hali gives them the opportunity to buy something of this quality, which was previously unavailable anywhere on the Mornington Peninsula."

Samuel recently secured the permit for the near two-hectare block that was formerly the Kangerong Holiday Park. The few buildings that were on the prime site have started to be demolished, and civil works on the land will begin in the coming months. Completion of Hali is slated for mid-2027.

Buyers are already walking through the display suite at 9 Pier Street, 700m from Hali.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147112]

Buyers are already walking through the display suite at 9 Pier Street, 700m from Hali

Hali Dromana strikes a chord with locals and Melbourne buyers looking for low maintenance beachside living

Developer Golden Age has started to welcome buyers to its recently completed Glen Waverley townhouse development, Floret.

<a href="/buildings/floret-glen-waverley-583-ferntree-gully-road-glen-waverley">Floret</a>, 77 townhouse designed by Rothelowman, is Glen Waverley's largest townhouse community. The majority of two and three-level townhouses are spoken for.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104680 project_image_fid=207725]

<a href="/developers/golden-age-group">Golden&nbsp;Age</a>&nbsp;Development Director,&nbsp;Damien Hehir, highlighted the strong market response, noting that Floret delivers what Glen Waverley buyers are looking for.

“These luxury townhomes are in demand as we are catering to what the market and neighbourhood needs," Hehir says.

"Glen Waverley is dominated by family homes, and the success from our completed <a href="/developments/glen-waverley-vic-3150">Glen Waverley</a> project,&nbsp;Sky Garden, lends to our track record with Floret in providing the neighbourhood with architecturally designed residences, curated for several buyer demographics.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104680 project_image_fid=207713]

Designed by&nbsp;Rothelowman and Aspect Studios, the two and three-level townhomes provide flexible, multi-generational living.&nbsp; Some&nbsp;of&nbsp;the townhomes come with ground-level ensuite bedrooms offering private courtyard access, while the upper floors create a seamless blend&nbsp;of&nbsp;communal and private spaces.

The 1,000 sqm landscaped central park, featuring a walking track, fitness station, children’s play area, and barbecue facilities, is anticipated to be completed by&nbsp;April 2025.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104680 project_image_fid=207730]

With an entry price&nbsp;of&nbsp;$1.36 million for a four-bedroom townhome, Floret has attracted young families, downsizers, and first-home buyers looking for a premium lifestyle in a prime location. Positioned near Monash University, The Glen Shopping Centre and in close proximity to the upcoming SRL Monash train station, the development offers both convenience and connectivity.

Construction at&nbsp;583 Ferntree Gully Road&nbsp;remains on track, with&nbsp;final completion scheduled for Q2 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=104680]

Construction at 583 Ferntree Gully Road remains on track, with final completion scheduled for Q2 2025

Golden Age welcomes buyers to first stage of Floret, Glen Waverley townhouses

The Allan Labor Government is introducing a ‘townhouse code’ that will rapidly approve new home buildings up to three storeys tall, so long as they are appropriate for the community that surrounds them and the residents that will live in them.

Premier Jacinta Allan joined Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny in Brunswick to release the new code, which is all about turbocharging the approval of more duplexes, townhouses and low-rise apartments for workers and young people – especially in established suburbs close to transport, jobs and services.

If a project ticks all the boxes in the townhouse code, it gets a green light and speeds past a complex planning system – with no costly delays, no VCAT limbo, and no unnecessary bureaucracy – delivering more homes, faster.

The status quo system is plagued with delay and uncertainty

Too many people trying to build a home in Victoria face a system that seems designed to say no. The ‘snakes and ladders’ game of obtaining a planning permit is one of the reasons why Victoria still doesn’t have enough homes – with those who do manage to finish the game often spending too much money absorbing its delays.

The average assessment time for a planning permit is 145 days – well over the statutory deadline. There can be constant requests for ‘more information’ throughout the process, plus notice periods. Then there’s appeals: the average time frame at VCAT from lodgement to hearing is 175 days.

This may be appropriate for a large development. But it’s stifling the kind of new, low-rise, good-quality home building that will fit in with all communities and won’t detract from local character.

The townhouse code

The townhouse code sets basic but important standards for good development, like enough setback and tree coverage so a building suits the neighbourhood, and well-sized bedrooms and decent sunlight so it’s a nice place to live. The standards include, but are not limited to:

<ul>
	<li>Neighbourhood character rules like six metre setbacks at the front, and setbacks at the side and rear</li>
	<li>Tree canopy and open space requirements, including protecting trees that are a certain size</li>
	<li>A mix of 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments in projects of a certain size, to support families</li>
	<li>Protection for neighbours from overlooking and overshadowing</li>
	<li>Enough sunlight, storage, room size, ventilation and private open space for residents</li>
	<li>Buildings that are sustainable and energy efficient</li>
</ul>

A planning permit application will have to include all the evidence it meets the code – which is formally called the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code. When an application is submitted, councils will assess if it meets the code.

If the code is met, the application is ‘deemed to comply’. No more assessment is required. It is fast-tracked. Affected neighbours will be notified and can have their say – but there are no third-party appeals at VCAT.

If the code is not met – for example, because of an issue that affects neighbours – then a normal planning process will then apply. The project may still get the green light at the end of that process, but it won’t be on the ‘deemed to comply’ fast-track and third-party appeal rights will be maintained.

If there are additional permit triggers locally such as heritage or flood overlays – or if there’s a two-storey height limit in a zone – an application will have to comply with these rules as well as meeting the code. But the application won’t have to comply with rules that are already standardised by the code, such as setbacks, design and tree cover.

The code will support significant housing supply across Melbourne and regional Victoria. There are some 1.45 million lots in the key residential zones in Melbourne alone.

The code was developed in conjunction with 148 stakeholders and 61 submissions from Victorian councils. It builds on the 14 ResCode standards introduced in 2023. The Government is also developing a code for buildings between four and six storeys – and hasn’t ruled anything in or out for how that code will work.

Until then, the Government is also updating the standards for four-storey apartments to align with those in the new 1- to 3- storey code – however, ‘deemed to comply’ provisions will not apply through this technical update.

The Townhouse and Low-Rise Code will come into effect via an amendment to all planning schemes, subject to gazettal. You’ll be able to lodge an application through this code in April.&nbsp;

A Planning Act from the 80s needs to enter the 2020s

The 606-page Planning and Environment Act 1987 has been criticised as complex, inconsistent and old-fashioned. It is the definition of the status quo. The Government will rewrite it so good homes aren’t blocked by bad process.

The Government pledged to review the Act as part of its landmark Housing Statement. Now the rewrite can begin around clear goals that will get young people and workers into homes, faster – and we will consult with all 79 councils on it. As part of the rewrite, the Government confirms it will look at:

The time and costs associated with structure plans and rezoning, with possible legislative change to replace the current one-size-fits-all planning scheme amendment process

Focusing on further reducing planning permit delays and blockages, including different assessment and approval processes for projects that have a lesser impact.

Premier Jacinta Allan said the townhouse code is "about a system that says yes."

“Homes don’t get built when they’re lost in the snakes and ladders of the planning system – so we’re fixing it," Allan says.

"The status quo isn’t cutting it, and people trying to build homes for young people keep hearing the word ‘no’. The townhouse code is about a system that says yes."

Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny said the code can&nbsp;reduce planning permit assessment times by at least 60 per cent, in addition to the time saved at VCAT.

“We believe in good, comfortable, well-designed homes – that’s why we’re codifying them.”

Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny said the code can reduce planning permit assessment times by at least 60 per cent, in addition to the time saved at VCAT

‘Automatic’ approvals to deliver townhouse revolution across Melbourne

Pembrook Homes has delivered over 1,000 homes across Melbourne's inner-city suburbs for over two decades.

Their latest pursuit of delivering contemporary, low-maintenance townhouses to family-friendly suburbs has taken them to REservoir, where they've previously completed several boutique developments in recent years.

The new townhouses at <a href="/new-townhouses/41-home-street-reservoir-41-home-street-reservoir">41 Home Street</a>, a row of just four, sit in the sought-after Oak Hill Estate, one of the most premium pockets in <a href="/developments/reservoir-vic-3073">Reservoir</a>.

Not subject to owners corp like the majority of townhouse developments, 41 Home Street townhouses are priced between $1,125,000 for the three-bedroom homes, and $1,195,000 for the sole four-bed townhouse.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148861 project_image_fid=319809]

The homes feature open-plan layouts that connect the kitchen, dining, and living spaces, leading to private courtyards designed for additional outdoor living.

Kitchens are equipped with 900mm Bosch stainless steel appliances, stone benchtops, and sleek cabinetry, anchored by a kitchen island which forms a versatile additional dining or entertaining space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148861 project_image_fid=319811]

Each home also meets a 6-Star NatHERS energy rating, designed to minimise their environmental impact without compromising on quality or comfort.&nbsp;

Landscaping has been thoughtfully planned to enhance privacy and integrate greenery throughout the site.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148861 project_image_fid=319808]

The Oak Hill Estate is an attractive area to live in Reservoir because within its small four-kilometre square boundary it has the likes of&nbsp;Darebin Community Sports Stadium, Reservoir Leisure Centre, Summerhill Village Shopping Centre, Broadway Shopping Centre, C.H. Sullivan Memorial Park, C.T. Barling Park, and several schools.

Home Street runs adjacent to Plenty Road where the 86 Tram heads into the city to Docklands or north to Bundoora RMIT.

<a href="/developers/pembrook-homes">Pembrook Homes</a>, who build all of their own developments, are expecting to complete the townhouses later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=148861]

Pembrook Homes, who build all of their own developments, are expecting to complete the townhouses later this year

Melbourne off the plan townhouses

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