<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:ca872054-bfe3-4cc5-a2c8-b373d4dfeafb-2" dir="auto">
A completed Castle Hill apartment development is returning to market with an uncommon level of financial backing, positioning it as one of the more secure options for buyers in Sydney’s north-west.

Skyview in Castle Hill, originally developed by Top Place and now overseen by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, is being relaunched following a full remediation process. Central to its repositioning is a substantial financial reserve designed to provide ongoing protection and reduce uncertainty for incoming purchasers.

At the core of this offering is an $11 million bond secured during the project’s remediation phase, negotiated by former NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler. With less than $4 million required to complete the works, approximately $7.2 million remains in reserve, with around 15 years left on the term.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359134]

Rather than a typical insurance-backed structure, the remaining funds are held as cash, creating a readily accessible financial buffer should any future building issues arise. The structure is intended to provide buyers with an added layer of certainty, differentiating the development from more conventional apartment offerings.

Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure provides a level of security not typically seen in apartment developments.

“The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers,” Huxley said.

“Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359135]

The remediation process has now been completed in full, with no active rectification orders or outstanding directives linked to the project on NSW Government registers. This outcome reflects the broader tightening of building oversight across the state, while also highlighting the project’s transition into a completed, compliant asset.

In a market where many buyers remain cautious about apartment quality, initiatives like this are designed to restore confidence, giving purchasers greater certainty and a stronger sense of security in their investment.

Equitifund has since acquired the remaining apartments and is managing their reintroduction to the market. With the works finalised and a significant financial reserve in place, the project now presents with a markedly different risk profile compared to its initial release.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359137]

Beyond the added security, the development is positioned in one of Castle Hill’s more established pockets. The Gay Street address places it within close proximity to Castle Towers, one of the country’s largest retail centres, as well as Castle Hill Metro Station, which now connects directly to the broader Sydney Metro network.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said buyer demand in the area continues to be driven by access to transport and amenity.

“Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre,” Hamblett said.

“There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359145]

The apartments also enter the market at a relatively accessible price point for the area, with two-bedroom configurations starting from $995,000 and rental demand for similar stock reaching around $900 per week. This combination of pricing, connectivity, and completed status is expected to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors seeking lower-risk entry into the Hills District apartment market.

For eligible buyers, a limited 3.50 per cent p.a. two-year fixed interest rate is currently available through Equitifund’s lending partners, providing an additional layer of affordability.

EquitiCredit Pty Ltd ACN 676 363 769 holds ACL 559289 and provides credit assistance. Finance is arranged through EquitiCredit and funded by its lending partners. Interest rates are subject to change and eligibility criteria apply. Terms, conditions, fees and charges may apply. This is not financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. Prospective buyers should seek independent financial advice.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]
</section>

Joel Robinson

Castle Hill apartments offering unmatched buyer protection through dedicated fund

A State-Assessed Rezoning Proposal for the Kurnell Peninsula is now on public exhibition, setting out a plan to deliver up to 4,300 homes alongside new retail, tourism and public open space on a 210-hectare coastal site.

The proposal, backed by the Minns Labor Government, would transform a former sand mining area along Captain Cook Drive into a mixed-use precinct delivered over approximately 20 years.

In addition to housing, the plan includes more than 7,000 sqm of retail and commercial space, new community facilities and approximately 116 hectares of open space, equating to more than half the site.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce1c6567-1df0-4de0-9fe5-a76be0367834" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.11.51%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=dbbTmYaJvROA5fkQbgaxis8cmFwtpB5_" />

<hr data-end="849" data-start="846" />
<h2 data-end="902" data-section-id="ony3l3" data-start="851">Rezoning framework enables mixed-use development</h2>

The rezoning application seeks to amend planning controls under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Precincts—Central River City) and the Sutherland Shire Local Environmental Plan 2015.

Its primary objective is to enable a broader range of land uses across the site, including residential, employment, tourism and community uses, while also formalising environmental protections and land management outcomes .

The proposal has progressed through the state-led rezoning pathway after being identified as a project of regional significance, supported by several years of technical studies and agency consultation .

Development would occur in stages, aligned with the progressive closure and remediation of the existing sand mine.

<hr data-end="1718" data-start="1715" />
<h2 data-end="1768" data-section-id="krwii9" data-start="1720">Master plan structured around three precincts</h2>

The accompanying urban design report outlines an indicative master plan that divides the site into three primary precincts, anchored by a town centre in the western portion of the site.

The town centre is planned as the first stage of development, located on land that has already been remediated. It is intended to accommodate higher-density housing, retail, and community uses.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4bfd5873-4847-4105-b220-0a30c96f5573" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.20.09%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7aVaSsZLAc6mElSH4g6Ct5bGsNxZcnPL" />

Additional precincts extend toward Bate Bay and Boat Harbour, with built form responding to environmental conditions and proximity to the coastline.

The design framework identifies distinct local character areas, with the master plan structured to reflect “unique natural qualities” across the site.

<hr data-end="2495" data-start="2492" />
<h2 data-end="2544" data-section-id="1vitwqn" data-start="2497">Open space forms core of the design approach</h2>

A key component of the proposal is the allocation of approximately 116 hectares to open space and ecological land.

This includes:

<ul data-end="2846" data-start="2678">
	<li data-end="2702" data-section-id="d96caj" data-start="2678">Three district parks</li>
	<li data-end="2723" data-section-id="17y6uz6" data-start="2703">Nine local parks</li>
	<li data-end="2741" data-section-id="14hui00" data-start="2724">Sports fields</li>
	<li data-end="2778" data-section-id="ts7psx" data-start="2742">Coastal and ecological corridors</li>
	<li data-end="2846" data-section-id="agduax" data-start="2779">Two kilometres of publicly accessible beachfront along Bate Bay</li>
</ul>

The urban design report positions this open space network as central to the structure of the development, rather than ancillary to it.

It is intended to support ecological regeneration, provide recreational amenity and create a connected network across the peninsula.

The plan includes north–south ecological corridors, expanded wetland systems and pedestrian and cycling links designed to connect residential areas to the coastline and open space areas .

<hr data-end="3347" data-start="3344" />
<h2 data-end="3381" data-section-id="ql66rt" data-start="3349">Housing mix and affordability</h2>

The proposal includes approximately 4,300 dwellings across a range of housing types.

This includes high-density apartments, medium-density housing, townhouses and seniors housing.

Affordable housing provision is identified at approximately 240 dwellings, alongside a smaller component of social housing.

The master plan emphasises housing diversity, with the intent of accommodating a range of household types and age groups within the development.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d4baba4d-b5b0-4a86-bcad-5d319b036184" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.11.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=udYFz0q8tjEPR3pmKLHRSFRJN4dKakPO" />

<hr data-end="3877" data-start="3874" />
<h2 data-end="3919" data-section-id="rgckdv" data-start="3879">Built form controls and height limits</h2>

Proposed building heights across the site range from three to 12 storeys.

These controls are set out within the rezoning application and are intended to manage visual impact, maintain view corridors and ensure compatibility with the coastal landscape.

Floor space ratios and height limits are applied across different parts of the site to reflect varying environmental conditions and proximity to open space and the coastline .

Higher density is generally concentrated within the town centre, with lower-scale development toward the coastal edge and environmentally sensitive areas.

<hr data-end="4548" data-start="4545" />
<h2 data-end="4588" data-section-id="1minlda" data-start="4550">Retail, tourism and employment uses</h2>

In addition to residential development, the proposal includes retail, commercial and tourism uses.

This includes:

<ul data-end="4896" data-start="4706">
	<li data-end="4775" data-section-id="1jrun76" data-start="4706">Approximately 7,000–9,800sqm of retail and commercial floor space</li>
	<li data-end="4803" data-section-id="10kyifw" data-start="4776">A full-line supermarket</li>
	<li data-end="4830" data-section-id="fz1hdg" data-start="4804">Food and beverage uses</li>
	<li data-end="4896" data-section-id="1aqg2fj" data-start="4831">Tourism accommodation, including hotel and short-stay options</li>
</ul>

The proposal also identifies employment outcomes, with the development expected to support jobs both during construction and in ongoing operations.

These uses are concentrated within the town centre and key activity areas across the site.

<hr data-end="5142" data-start="5139" />
<h2 data-end="5172" data-section-id="162x2kt" data-start="5144">Infrastructure and access</h2>

The proposal includes upgrades to Captain Cook Drive, which provides the primary access to the peninsula.

These upgrades are intended to improve traffic flow and support emergency access.

The transport strategy also incorporates:

<ul data-end="5529" data-start="5407">
	<li data-end="5433" data-section-id="fanquy" data-start="5407">Internal road networks</li>
	<li data-end="5469" data-section-id="o6y80y" data-start="5434">Walking and cycling connections</li>
	<li data-end="5529" data-section-id="jgraft" data-start="5470">Proposed public transport routes and bus stop locations</li>
</ul>

The rezoning report includes detailed analysis of transport, flooding, and infrastructure requirements to support the staged development of the site .

<hr data-end="5723" data-start="5720" />
<h2 data-end="5769" data-section-id="14urh3" data-start="5725">Environmental and cultural considerations</h2>

The site is identified as having environmental and cultural significance, including areas of ecological value and Aboriginal archaeological sensitivity.

The proposal includes measures to protect and enhance these areas, including:

<ul data-end="6230" data-start="6004">
	<li data-end="6056" data-section-id="1pzyouo" data-start="6004">Retention and regeneration of coastal vegetation</li>
	<li data-end="6100" data-section-id="bjn2vz" data-start="6057">Strengthening of biodiversity corridors</li>
	<li data-end="6148" data-section-id="1bpeyoj" data-start="6101">Protection of riparian systems and wetlands</li>
	<li data-end="6230" data-section-id="lg0cka" data-start="6149">Integration of cultural interpretation and recognition of Indigenous heritage</li>
</ul>

The urban design report also outlines opportunities for incorporating Indigenous cultural elements into public spaces and landscape design.

<hr data-end="6893" data-start="6890" />
<h2 data-end="6908" data-section-id="w7rk5f" data-start="6895">Next steps</h2>

The proposal is currently on public exhibition, with submissions open to the community. Feedback received during this period will inform the Department of Planning’s assessment of the rezoning.

If approved, the rezoning would establish the planning framework for future development applications across the site.

<hr data-end="6893" data-start="6890" />
<h2 data-end="6908" data-section-id="w7rk5f" data-start="6895">What the NSW Government says</h2>

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the planned closure of the sand mine and remediation of the Kurnell Peninsula presents an exciting opportunity to transform the area.

“This proposal envisions a vibrant new beachfront community with thousands of new homes, jobs and great open space in the Sutherland Shire. I encourage the community to have their say during the public exhibition period. Feedback from the community will play an important role in the assessment of the proposal.”

Sydney's newest beachfront city: NSW Gov to unlock 4,300 new homes on Kurnell peninsula

A long-awaited transformation of a former industrial site in Holroyd has been given the green light, with the NSW Government approving the $1.2 billion Crescent Parklands masterplan that will deliver more than 1,200 new homes just south of Parramatta.

The State Significant Development approval clears the way for a large-scale mixed-use precinct at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-crescent-street-holroyd-nsw-2142">1 Crescent Street</a>, replacing an underutilised site with a coordinated residential community anchored by new open space, retail, and commercial uses.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> for WA-based developer Tiberius, the approved scheme comprises seven buildings arranged across two precincts. In total, the development will deliver 1,227 apartments, including 201 allocated as affordable housing, alongside approximately 2,500 sqm of retail and 5,000 sqm of commercial space within a mixed-use podium.

<img alt="Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver 1,200+ homes in major Holroyd transformation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1cc82dd2-8184-4b86-8665-90653147820d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crescent%20buildings.png?VersionId=2ZmVDc_Rfc4AzQ6ShzZJlvdZnACLerVM" />

The project is structured as a masterplanned precinct rather than a standalone tower. Buildings 1 to 4 will rise from a shared podium with shop-top housing, while Buildings 5 to 7 are positioned closer to the northern park interface as residential flat buildings. The built form has been carefully modulated to balance density with amenity, with the design resolving building separation, solar access, and wind impacts at a precinct scale.

A significant focus of the design is the activation of Crescent Street and the integration of public domain. The submission notes that “individual townhouses [were] removed for community based functions to Crescent Street to increase activation and surveillance,” reinforcing a more urban and publicly engaged street edge. Retail, commercial tenancies, and resident amenity spaces are concentrated along this frontage and within the podium to support day-to-day activity.

The landscape strategy underpins the project’s identity, with a network of pedestrian connections, landscaped corridors, and open spaces linking the site internally and to its surroundings. The design prioritises permeability, delivering “increased uninterrupted flow between spaces for pedestrian access” and improved connections through to the adjoining parklands.

<img alt="Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver 1,200+ homes in major Holroyd transformation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19282454-ab2f-4e2c-866f-4b35cf4283d4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crescent%20masterplan.png?VersionId=JQdWGYI5B5R1lzmK4omYOp_8KLPkT4Bv" />

Buildings within the western precinct are oriented toward the park, shaping a residential offering defined by proximity to open space. The design describes this approach as creating apartments “immersed in nature with apartments facing the park,” positioning the landscape as a central organising element of the masterplan.

The broader architectural response addresses both infrastructure and context, with taller elements capturing long-range views toward Parramatta while setbacks and separation distances mitigate impacts on surrounding residential areas. Sustainability initiatives, including solar optimisation, cross-ventilation, and integrated landscape systems, are embedded across the scheme.

Located approximately one kilometre south of Parramatta CBD, the 3.6-hectare site is bounded by Crescent Street, Woodville Road, and Holroyd Sportsground. It benefits from strong access to public transport, including nearby bus routes and train stations, and sits within a rapidly evolving corridor earmarked for increased residential density. The design also strengthens connections between surrounding green spaces, including Holroyd Sportsground and Parramatta Parklands.

The approval follows several years of planning, including a rezoning process that enabled significant uplift in height and density across the site. With determination now secured, Crescent Parklands is positioned to play a major role in delivering new housing supply within Greater Parramatta’s growth area.

Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver over 1,200 homes in major Holroyd transformation

A new State Significant Development application has been lodged over land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/33-43-marion-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">33–43 Marion Street</a>, Parramatta, proposing a high-rise mixed-use tower that leverages planning incentives to deliver a substantial pipeline of new housing, including a dedicated affordable component.

The scheme, currently on exhibition, combines a shop-top housing development with a concurrent rezoning, positioning the site for a significant uplift in density within Parramatta’s evolving southern CBD fringe.

The proposal, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fuse-architecture-0">Fuse Architects</a> for CN Marion, would replace the existing buildings with a 37-storey mixed-use tower, delivering 296 apartments above a retail podium with six basement levels on the 2,376 sqm site.

The residential mix comprises 58 one-bedroom, 207 two-bedroom, and 31 three-bedroom apartments, with communal facilities located on the second level and the rooftop. Ground-level activation is driven by retail and food and beverage tenancies, alongside a publicly accessible through-site link designed to improve pedestrian permeability.

The project includes 194 car spaces, five motorcycle spaces, and 348 bicycle spaces, reflecting a transit-oriented approach in a location directly adjacent to the rail corridor and within walking distance of Harris Park Station.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for 37-storey mixed-use tower with affordable housing at 33–43 Marion Street, Parramatta" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3db873ea-62f0-437b-8a6a-eeda154d2dee" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Marion%20building.png?VersionId=YwzBv8OVHwyRnMLGX4slU7QyhTyMZeOX" />

The design adopts a podium-and-tower composition, with a three-storey street wall addressing Marion Street and a reduced two-storey interface responding to adjoining heritage cottages.

A key component of the proposal is the integration of affordable housing under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing pathway, with units to be retained for a minimum of 15 years. This is paired with a broader public domain strategy that emphasises permeability, deep soil planting, and a landscaped through-site link.

“The strategy prioritises a permeable, well-activated public realm and supports a compact tower form to minimise the building’s footprint while enhancing the quality of the ground-level experience,” the design report states.

The proposal includes a central landscaped courtyard, rooftop communal areas, and planting strategies aligned with local environmental conditions and cultural narratives.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for 37-storey mixed-use tower with affordable housing at 33–43 Marion Street, Parramatta" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f0e6c165-9967-4d20-9216-e5b8357c85ba" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Marion%20site.png?VersionId=SRod222LwgDmGZJmJY0wTbK39UrWZLSD" />

The site occupies a prominent corner of Marion and Station streets, roughly 100 metres from Harris Park Station, within a precinct earmarked for significant intensification. While the immediate context is characterised by low- to mid-rise buildings and heritage dwellings, planning controls and recent proposals point to a transition toward high-density development.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:c78224e4-1dd1-48ac-afda-97fe23bac47e-0" dir="auto">
Parramatta has been starved of new apartment supply in recent years. Builder-developers Deicorp and Coronation are the only two currently progressing projects in the suburb. Coronation is nearing completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/8-phillip-street-2-10-phillip-street-parramatta">8 Phillip Street</a>, which will be the tallest building in Western Sydney once finished, while Deicorp is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cosmopolitan-by-deicorp-parramatta-34-hassall-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">Cosmopolitan</a>, a development comprising over 600 apartments.
</section>

First Look: Plans lodged for 37-storey mixed-use tower in Parramatta

A substantial uplift in height and density is being tested in Lane Cove, with a 225-apartment scheme at 300 Burns Bay Road now on public exhibition as a State Significant Development alongside a concurrent rezoning.

The proposal by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> would see the demolition of an existing commercial building and associated structures, replaced by a residential development ranging from seven to 15 storeys.&nbsp;

The scheme delivers 225 apartments, including 34 designated as affordable housing, positioning it within the NSW Government’s accelerated Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The development is arranged as three interconnected residential flat buildings, a response to the site’s long, narrow configuration and sloping topography.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: 225-apartment Lane Cove tower proposal enters exhibition under State Significant pathway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c325d40c-ead5-45f4-9d77-5a446b23acc0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Lane%20Cove%20pers.png?VersionId=hsCJxT5hj.5kzA6AMInyan1x8mcHeRez" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, the project’s designer, describe a built form that is “divided into three sections, each connected by intermediate infill slots which are recessed to establish greater setbacks and further articulate the development.”

Across the scheme, apartments are supported by communal amenity at ground and rooftop levels, including landscaped open space and a rooftop pool. Basement and lower ground levels accommodate parking, storage, and building services, while a new public park is proposed along the eastern edge of the site, replacing part of the existing built form.

The architectural response has been shaped by the site’s pronounced fall towards the Lane Cove River, with building heights stepping down from west to east to reduce visual bulk and respond to adjoining bushland.&nbsp;

The design report notes that “the development has been carefully designed to integrate with the existing topography with the placement of massing and floor levels adjusted respecting the site’s inherent characteristics.”

<img alt="First look: 225-apartment Lane Cove tower proposal enters exhibition under State Significant pathway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31cc13a5-bc8b-4dc3-b9b1-07c6ec33a82b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Lane%20cove%20site.png?VersionId=NiyH3LimQwiHsE6Q7I5g4Grpr5fRdZaX" />

The project is being advanced through a concurrent rezoning process, seeking to increase the permissible height and floor space ratio beyond current Lane Cove LEP controls of 21 metres. Under the proposal, height would reach up to 54.5 metres, reflecting a shift toward higher-density outcomes in well-located urban areas.

Located on a 7,595 sqm site, the development sits within an established high-density residential pocket characterised by mid-rise apartment buildings set within a bushland setting. The site is within close proximity to Burns Bay Reserve, the Lane Cove River, and an extensive network of open space, reinforcing its strategic positioning for increased housing supply.

Level 33 is doing through the Housing Delivery Authority to try and get its Homebush project of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/level-33-adds-to-2-000-unit-pipeline-with-new-two-tower-homebush-plans">more than 300 apartments approved</a>.

The developer has over 2,000 apartments in the pipeline, predominantly in Wollongong.

First look: Level 33 proposes 225-apartment Lane Cove tower

Mortgage Delinquencies

<html><body>
S&amp;P Global Ratings has reported that Australia's prime SPIN 30+ day delinquencies declined a little further from 1.08 per cent to 1.04 per cent in October 2017.
<div id="post-body-3454931207027681415">
<div>
31-60 day prime mortgage arrears have now been tracking at historic lows since June 2017.
There's still a bit happening in the 90+ days space, but arrears have been improving here too since May.
Year-on-year mortgage arrears were comfortably lower.
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KxfCYFuanl0/Wjgn0DCCqvI/AAAAAAAAnks/ALly7UBUGHcvhI-sIXAjjgrxzzHjIXxuQCLcBGAs/s1600/S%2526P%2BArrears.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KxfCYFuanl0/Wjgn0DCCqvI/AAAAAAAAnks/ALly7UBUGHcvhI-sIXAjjgrxzzHjIXxuQCLcBGAs/s640/S%2526P%2BArrears.jpg" width="640" height="380" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1347"></a>
</div>
<div>Declines were reported in all mainland states and territories. </div>
 <div><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c-AKP9xZqh8/WjddO7rxMYI/AAAAAAAAnj4/lQtqxkBFhFUyC2hsBnDCSK4yElKrWBc6ACLcBGAs/s1600/SandP.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c-AKP9xZqh8/WjddO7rxMYI/AAAAAAAAnj4/lQtqxkBFhFUyC2hsBnDCSK4yElKrWBc6ACLcBGAs/s400/SandP.jpg" width="400" height="327" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="788"></a></div>
 <div>Source: S&amp;P Global Ratings</div>
 <div>Western Australia continued to have the highest rate of 30-day arrears, declining from 2.21 per cent to 2.12 per cent. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The lowest rate of delinquency was to be found in the ACT at only 0.58 per cent (Canberra has <a href="http://petewargent.blogspot.co.uk/2017/11/drain-swamp" target="_blank">by far the highest incomes</a> on the country). </div>
<div> </div>
<div>In New South Wales 30-day arrears fell from 0.79 per cent to only 0.75 per cent in the month.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Arrears were also below 1 per cent in Victoria and Tasmania. Over the past year the biggest improvers were the southern states of Tasmania and South Australia (the other ex-mining state jurisdictions had low arrears already). <div><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z4KH6mQAhPg/Wjg08TYwYLI/AAAAAAAAnk8/r_3IgizuDq8j_7_DPiwD5DC_iYSh_KyYwCLcBGAs/s1600/S%2526P%2BState.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z4KH6mQAhPg/Wjg08TYwYLI/AAAAAAAAnk8/r_3IgizuDq8j_7_DPiwD5DC_iYSh_KyYwCLcBGAs/s640/S%2526P%2BState.jpg" width="640" height="386" data-original-height="787" data-original-width="1302"></a></div>
</div>
<div>As at the beginning of 2017, S&amp;P Global had reported: "We believe that the risk of a sharp, disorderly correction in house prices remains relatively low, reflecting our stable economic outlook for Australia." While risks remain, S&amp;P commented this month:</div>
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<div>"We do not expect arrears to increase much above current levels while benign economic conditions persist." </div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Mortgage delinquencies decline further: Pete Wargent

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Westpac's Q3 financial update saw their mortgage delinquencies soar by 55 basis points due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Delinquencies over 30 days jumped from 188 bps to 243 bps over the three months to June.
There was an equally big jump in 90+ day delinquencies, up from 94 bps to 149 bps.
"Our approach to applying COVID-19 relief meant an increased number of customers entered hardship assistance", Westpac advised.
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The big four bank provided 135,000 home loan customers with mortgage relief up to July 31, accounting for $51 billion of their $446 billion loan book.
64% of the mortgage holders seeking the relief were owner-occupiers, and 79 per cent were paying principal and interest repayments.
The mortgage deferrals primarily came from New South Wales and Victoria, who made up 70 per cent of all mortgages deferred.
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After checking in after three months of the extension, Westpac said that half were expected to return to payment, and the other half requested a further three month extension.
That leaves $30 billion still on pause.
Westpac's total loan portfolio shrunk a touch over the three months to June, down from $445.7 billion to $445.5 billion.
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Owner-occupier numbers continued to grow, as investor loans continued their contraction, as did interest only loans, now below 22 per cent of Westpac's loan book.
More mortgage holders are now fixing their home loans, with record low rates on offer.
Although there's still no suggestion on the variable front that the RBA rates will hike rates for at least three years.
 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Westpac's mortgage delinquencies jump due to COVID-19

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In this economic environment, mortgage delinquencies will moderately increase, especially given that high household debt — which amounts to almost 190% of annual gross disposable income — will leave households financially vulnerable to economic and housing market shocks, according to Moody's Investor Service.
Moody's Investor Service foecast is for real GDP growth of 1.8% in 2020, lower than 2.0% in 2019. Unemployment will be relatively steady at 5.2% in 2020, from 5.1% in December 2019.1 
However, it is likely that most mortgage borrowers will be able to continue meeting their repayments at our forecast level of economic growth and unemployment, which means delinquencies will remain low overall.
Furthermore, historically low mortgage interest rates will support borrowers' abilities to repay mortgages.
In January 2020, month-on-month house prices in Sydney and Melbourne increased by 1.1% and 1.2% respectively.
Converting IO mortgages to principal/interest loans will increase delinquencies
The conversion of IO mortgages to principal and interest loans will cause some delinquencies in 2020, though this risk will diminish throughout the year. Banks originated a significant volume of IO loans in the first half of 2015. T
he five-year IO period for these mortgages will end in the first half of 2020. When such loans convert to principal and interest at the end of the IO period, borrowers must make higher monthly repayments, which can lead to delinquencies. 
Such risks will diminish through 2020, given that IO lending declined from the second half 2015.
Recent bushfires will have a negative but limited effect on RMBS performance 
The 2019-2020 bushfires will have a negative but limited effect on RMBS performance.
They have largely affected homes in rural and regional areas across Australia, while most of the loans in RMBS we rate have the backing of underlying properties located in major cities.
In addition, general home insurance, government/lender relief measures, as well as low average loan-to-value (LTV) ratios will mitigate risks for RMBS, by either helping to limit mortgage delinquencies or preventing them escalating to defaults and losses.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Delinquencies will moderately rise in 2020 but remain low: Moody’s Investors Service

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The NAB has advised its mortgage delinquencies are on the rise.
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The ratio of 90+ days past due and gross impaired assets to gross loans and acceptances increased from 0.79% to 0.85%, largely due to rising Australian mortgage delinquencies, it advised today.
The bank said asset quality overall remained broadly sound.
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The acting chief Philip Chronican released its third quarter trading update this morning, reporting unaudited statutory net profits of A$1.70bn, and A$1.65bn in unaudited cash earnings – a 1% increase year-over-year.
Revenue also increased, as NAB continues to see robust growth in (SME) small business lending.
But Chronican noted there was a "backdrop of a challenging operating environment, including subdued home lending growth.
He advised the bank's 3Q19 performance compared with the 1H19 quarterly average was "solid," with revenue increasing and costs flat.
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Its seen a 27% reduction in over-the-counter transactions and an 18% reduction in call centre volumes.
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NAB mortgage delinquencies on the rise

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Australian RMBS delinquency rates, which rose slightly over the three months ended 31 March 2019, will continue to increase over coming quarters, according to the latest report from Moody's Analytics.
They believed arrears will rise because of high debt levels, the conversion of a large number of interest-only mortgages to principal and interest loans and declining house prices.
They suggested however that delinquency rates will only increase moderately, given stable GDP growth, low unemployment and recent interest rate cuts.
The 30+ day delinquency rate for prime Australian RMBS was 1.58% in March 2019, compared with 1.54% in December 2018 and 1.48% in March 2018.
For prime RMBS issued by major banks, the 30+ day delinquency rate was 1.75% in March 2019 compared with 1.72% in December 2018.
For regional banks, the delinquency rate was 1.65% in March 2019, unchanged from December 2018, while for prime RMBS issued by other authorised deposit-taking institutions, the delinquency rate was 0.54% in March 2019, compared with 0.50% in December 2018.
The 30+ day delinquency rate for non-conforming RMBS was 3.75% in March 2019, up from 3.23% in December 2018 and 3.05% in March 2018.
Alena Chen, Vice President of Moody’s said, "over coming quarters, we expect Australia's record-high household debt, which amounts to almost 200% of annual gross disposable income, will contribute to a moderate increase in delinquencies."
"Meanwhile, a large number of interest-only mortgages are due to convert to principal and interest loans by the end of 2020, which will cause some delinquencies over this period. Banks originated a significant volume of interest-only loans in 2014 and 2015," she said,
The five year interest-only period for these mortgages will end in 2019 and 2020.
When interest-only loans convert to principal and interest, borrowers have to make higher monthly repayments, which can lead to delinquencies.
Commonwealth Bank saw a rise in arrears in their <a href="/news/cba-arrears-rise-but-home-loan-book-continues-to-grow-slowly">March quarter results</a>.
Banks have already started trying to limit a large impact of moving mortgage holders from interest only to P&amp;I.
This time last year ANZ had 26 percent of their loan book made up of IO loans. They <a href="/expert-insights/finance/anzs-home-loan-portfolio-shows-big-drop-in-interest-only-borrowers">reduced that number to 18%</a> as of May.
NAB have an unhealthier <a href="/news/nab-housing-lending-revenue-continues-to-drop-and-shareholders-pay-the-price">26% of their loan book</a> given to interest-only loans.
Chen said Moody's expect house price declines to lead to a moderate increase in mortgage delinquencies over coming quarters."
"House prices in Australia declined by an average of 7.3% in the 12 months to 30 May 2019, while in Sydney and Melbourne, prices declined by an average of 10.7% and 9.9% respectively."
"We expect prices to continue to decline moderately over the remainder of 2019." she said.
Mortgage delinquencies will only increase moderately, while defaults and losses will remain low, given that continued GDP growth, low unemployment and recent interest rate cuts will support borrowers' ability to meet their mortgage repayments.
Moody's Investor Service forecast's real GDP growth of around 2.5% in both 2019 and 2020.
Australia's unemployment rate was 5.2% in April 2019 and they expect it will remain relatively stable at 5.5% by the end of 2019 and 2020.
In early June, the Reserve Bank of Australia lowered the cash rate by 0.25 percentage point, which prompted most lenders to lower their floating-rate mortgage interest rates.
To see which banks decided to pass on the full rate cut, <a href="/expert-insights/finance/what-are-the-latest-home-loan-cuts-and-whos-making-them">click here</a>.
 
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Australian RMBS delinquency rates to keep rising: Moody's

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Australian mortgage delinquencies, which increased over the year to November 2018, will continue to increase through 2019, according to Moody's Investors Service latest delinquency report.
"Mortgage delinquencies will continue to increase over 2019, because of high debt levels, subdued wage growth, the conversion of a large number of interest-only mortgages to principal-and-interest loans and declining house prices," says Alena Chen, a Moody's Vice President and Senior Analyst. 
"However, delinquencies will remain low overall, given the rate of economic growth and low unemployment, which will continue to support borrowers' ability to meet their mortgage repayments," says Chen. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/4/3/moody%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click here </a>to enlarge
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The proportion of Australian residential mortgages that were more than 30 days in arrears increased by 0.13 percentage point to 1.58% over the year to November 2018.
Mortgage delinquencies increased in New South Wales (NSW), Victoria, Western Australia, Tasmania, South Australia, Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory over the year to November 2018, but declined in Queensland.
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In NSW, the delinquency rate increased to the highest in five years, though it remains relatively low compared with most other states and territories and NSW's long-term average.
Regions with exposure to the mining sector continued to dominate the list of areas with the highest delinquencies. 
Moody's semi-annual delinquency map report provides a detailed analysis of the rate of residential mortgage arrears at a national, regional and postcode level in Australia. 
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Mortgage delinquencies set to continue rising through 2019: Moody's

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Mortgage delinquencies and defaults are more likely to occur in outer suburbs of Australian cities than inner-city areas, according to Moody's Investor Service.
They suggest that this is because of the lower average incomes and weaker credit characteristics in these suburbs.
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On average across Australian cities, mortgage delinquency rates are lowest in areas within five kilometres of the CBD and highest in areas 30-40 kilometres from CBDs (below).
Moody's suggest this trend is likely to continue into the foreseeable future with little changing in way of incomes and credit characteristics.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/10/Moodys1.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
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In most Australian capital cities, delinquency rates are highest in areas the furthest away from the CBD (below).
Sydney's delinquency rates grow steadily the further away from the CBD the property is, however in Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth, delinquency rates in suburbs closest to the city centre are slightly higher than those a little further out.
This is due to the high share of mortgages on investment properties in areas closest to the city.
Within five kilometres of the Melbourne CBD, delinquent investment loans account for 57% of all mortgage delinquencies.
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Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/10/moodys2.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
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Incomes and socioeconomic conditions are lower in outer suburbs, while credit characteristics are weaker.
Average incomes are lower in outer suburbs than in inner-city areas, while socioeconomic conditions are also typically weaker in outer areas. These factors increase the likelihood of mortgage delinquencies and defaults, particularly in the event of an economic downturn. 
In all Australian capital cities, average incomes decline with distance from the CBD (below), a fact that reflects the higher proportion of people employed in low-skilled jobs in these areas.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/10/Moodys3.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
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Mortgage delinquencies are higher in city's outer suburbs: Moody's

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Australian RMBS delinquency rates will rise moderately over coming quarters, with high debt levels and higher interest rates putting pressure on mortgage borrowers, according to the latest RMBS report from Moody's.
This is despite delinquency rates being broadly stable over the three months ended 30 June 2018.
The 30+ day delinquency rate for prime RMBS was 1.52% in June 2018, compared with 1.5% in March 2018 and 1.6% in June 2017.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/9/24/RMBS%20Moodys.JPG" alt="">
For prime RMBS issued by major banks, the 30+ day delinquency rate was 1.58% in June 2018 compared with 1.57% in March.
For regional banks, it remained flat at 1.99%, while for prime RMBS issued by other authorised deposit-taking institutions, the delinquency rate was 0.57% in June, compared with 0.51% in March.
The 30+ day delinquency rate for non-conforming RMBS was 3.16% in June 2018, compared with 3.05% in March 2018 and 3.41% in June 2017.
Moody's noted, "over coming quarters, we expect delinquencies to increases moderately, given Australia's record-high household debt, which amounts to 190% of annual gross disposable income."
High debt increases the risk of delinquencies, especially in a rising interest rate environment.
The report stated, "in late August and September, a number of Australia's major banks raised home loan interest rates, though we do not expect this round of rate rises to result in a significant increase in mortgage delinquencies, given that labour market conditions remain favourable and the rate increases were small compared with buffers built into home loan serviceability assessments."
A large number of interest-only mortgages are due to convert to principal and interest loans over the next two years, which will contribute to an increase in delinquencies over this period, according to Moody's data.
Banks originated a significant volume of interest-only loans in 2014 and 2015.
The five year interest-only period for these mortgages will end in 2019 and 2020.
The report also stated, "when interest-only loans convert to principal and interest, borrowers have to make higher monthly repayments, which can lead to delinquencies."
"On the positive side, economic and labour market conditions in Australia will continue to support borrowers’ ability to meet mortgage repayments over the next year, meaning that the increase in delinquencies will be moderate," they suggested.
Moody's forecasts real GDP growth of around 2.9% for calendar 2018 and 3% for 2019.
Australia's unemployment rate was 5.4% in June and we expect it will remain relatively stable at 5.6% by the end of 2018 and 5.5% at the end of 2019
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Australian RMBS home loan delinquencies to rise moderately over 2018: Moody's

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Lalor Park, Prestons and Casula have been ranked the suburbs with the most distressed listings in New South Wales.
Lalor Park ranked as the nation's most distressed suburb, according to Investar.
It suggests Lalor Park's has discounted listings which accounts for 60 per cent of the total.
The postcode 2147's house listings are typically for sale for 106 days.
The suburb's median house sits at $680,000, with 6.33 per cent growth over the past year.
Its median rent sits at $430 per week, with 2.38 per cent increase over the past year.
The rental yield sits at 3.3 per cent.
The Preston postcode 2170's house listings are typically for sale for 122 days.
The suburb's median house price sits at $880,000, which has grown by 2.3 per cent over the past year.
Its median rent sits at $650 per week, with 4.8 per cent growth over the past year.
The rental yield sits at 3.8 per cent. 
The Casula postcode 2170's house listings are typically for sale for 175 days.
The suburb's median house price sits at $512,500, which has grown by 6.1 per cent over the past year.
Its median rent sits at $395 per week, with 1.3 per cent decrease over the past year.
The rental yield sits at 4 per cent. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Lalor Park, Prestons and Casula rank as the most distressed suburbs in New South Wales 

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Six postcodes had zero mortgage delinquencies in November 2017, making them the best performing in the country.
Ten of the 20 best-performing postcodes in Australia were in Sydney, while six were in Melbourne.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/4/12/BEST%20POSTCODE.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
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Most best-performing postcodes were located in capital city regions where employment is concentrated in professional services.
The weighted average current loan to value ratios for the best performing regions were typically lower than the national average of 63.2%.
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