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

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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Office Lease

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IT start-up Stacktrace has signed its first Australian office premises in the Mirvac developed 410 Ann Street office tower in Brisbane.
Savills agent Dan Boyes negotiated the deal.
Formed in 2017, Stacktrace is a software services and products company in the not-for-profit and healthcare sectors. 
The company has taken up space on level seven in the East Tower of 410 Ann Street and will move into a fully fitted suite designed and constructed by The Fitout Studio.  
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Campbell Hanan, Mirvac's head of office and industrial, said Stacktrace are one of a number of tech organisations.
“We’re pleased to welcome Stacktrace to 410 Ann Street, where they will join a number of technology and start up organisations.
"Mirvac is excited to support the growth of this business hub by providing an environment that fosters collaboration between tenants..
“Taking a collaborative approach to tenant partnerships and asset management is key to our continued success in the Brisbane market. 
"Working with our tenants, we create workplaces that evolve to meet the changing needs of employees and building occupants. 
"In line with this, we have introduced a range of wellness initiatives at 410 Ann Street, designed to boost employee satisfaction, engagement and wellbeing. This includes regular yoga and meditation classes throughout the week.” 
Mirvac has also partnered with Brisbane City Council to develop the Cathedral Square regeneration project, which includes a grassy parkland with built-in seating and an inviting space for tenants, creating a quintessentially Queensland working environment.
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Stacktrace’s founder, Chris Horwill said Mirvac’s strong reputation as a property manager attracted them to 410 Ann Street.
"The team has been extremely flexible and responsive in accommodating our short timelines and workplace requirements.
“The attention to detail in every aspect of the partnership has been outstanding and has allowed us to focus on building our business. This was important to us as a new company in a growth phase.” 
Located on the edge of Cathedral Square, 410 Ann Street has over 20,000 square metres of commercial office space and sits at the heart of one of Brisbane’s most exciting emerging urban precincts on the northern side of the Ann and Wharf Street intersection.
The building has a 5 Star NABERS energy rating. 
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Savills negotiate IT start-up Stacktrace lease in Brisbane's Ann Street tower 

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Pfizer Australia, one of the world's leading biopharmaceutical companies, is relocating its Australian office into a new building in the heart of the Sydney CBD. 
The building - Barrack Place, at 151 Clarence St, will be one of the most advanced buildings in its class in Sydney when it is finished in 2018.
Pfizer will occupy the top four floors of this new prestigious building in an emerging entrepreneurial and innovation hub. The immediate business precinct is where many innovative businesses have set up such as Atlassian and Apple.
Melissa McGregor, managing director of Pfizer Australia said the company are proud of their manufacturing legacy at their West Ryde site over the past 60 years.
“Locating Pfizer Australia in this burgeoning business precinct - in the heart of the Sydney CBD - positions us strongly for the next 60 years. We are making a deliberate move to be at the cross section of society – businesses, Government, customers, and the general community all intersect in the Sydney CBD. 
“We will be part of the innovation and creativity that surrounds the area. In part because of the location, we will continue to attract vibrant and talented people to work at Pfizer Australia, as we have done for many years.”
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Pfizer is delivering on its sustainability responsibilities by getting 400 single- occupancy cars off the road every business day.
The building is currently under construction and is being built to world-class standards in terms of amenities, energy rating and environmental sustainability.
“As it’s a new building, we have the opportunity to design, shape and construct our internal workspace to our exacting and unique specifications. As you can appreciate, such opportunities are rare – particularly in this exciting location,” McGregor said.
Pfizer Australia plans to move its employees by December 2018 when building works are completed. Pfizer was assisted by Pepper Property for its Sydney office search.
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Pfizer Australia to relocate to a state of the art CBD location in 2018

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Gold Cost office tower 50 Cavill Avenue, owned by Sydney-based fund manager GDI Property Group, announced it has leased more than 90% of its office space after a $10 million upgrade. 
GDI purchased the tower in February 2016 with an occupancy rate of 54% and embarked upon an upgrade to unlock the value of the asset.
The refurbishment of the 22-level includes upgrades to common areas, six new destination control lifts, energy efficient air-conditioning and building systems targeting a 5 star NABERS rating, high speed fibre optic internet, end of trip facilities including showers, lockers, bike racks and modern landscaping to compliment the distinctive mirrored façade. 
There is also a café and bar onsite.
50 Cavill Avenue offers water, beach and hinterland views from almost all levels and has attracted leading companies as tenants such as Mantra Group, CBRE, Regus, Maven Dental and Nine Gold Coast News, said GDI managing director Steve Gillard.
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CBRE’s Nick Selbie, who has been heading the leasing campaign, noted that the recent success in improving occupancy is down to GDI’s belief in both the building and the Gold Coast in general. 
“Once the message was delivered to market that long overdue change was taking place in the building we were inundated with enquiry which has flowed to over 20 new leases being entered into and a number under negotiation at present,” Selbie says. 
The top level of the building with panoramic views of the coastal, hinterland and the Nerang River remains to be leased.
“While the refurbishment has been taking place, we have not actively sought a tenant but are now ready to field enquiry from potential tenants,” Selbie added.
Founder, Perry Cross will officially ‘open’ the newly reimaged building at a soirée in the forecourt later this month. 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Gold Coast office tower 50 Cahill Avenue nearly fully leased after upgrade

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Office leasing figures for the Melbourne CBD (size above 500 square metres), show total of 400,053 sqm was leased in the 12 months to September 2017, an increase of nearly 31% over the five-year average, according to Savills Research. 
The Finance and Insurance services sector absorbed 76,631 sqm of this space, 87% of which was prime grade.
“Take-up by the Financial services sector was quite remarkable, the highest in five years and up by 110% over the past 12 months,” said Monica Mondkar, associate director of Research at Savills.   
“Another major triumph for the sector was securing a position amongst the top three occupier categories in the CBD after a five year period. Demand from the Financial and Insurance sector has finally turned a corner, which has previously been contracting since September 2010,” said Mondkar.
Australian Bureau of Statistics counted financial services at 9% of GDP, the largest share by industry type in the national context, which is also a historical high for the sector. 
Financial services’ GDP contribution has surpassed the housing and construction industry and is the leading economic driver, creating wealth and adding jobs, she added.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/23/Savills0.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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“Lending services and insurance firms, benefitting from Victoria’s population and construction boom, have been key drivers for the office take-up by the financial services industry. Also, there is pent-up demand from financial planners upgrading or expanding their footprint into the CBD, profiting from a rise in the number of investors favouring alternative investments over the risk-free government bonds (amid a low-interest rate environment).”
Savills director of Office Leasing, Phillip Cullity, said a number of factors were behind the massive surge in financial sector leasing, including jobs and population growth in Victoria, lease expiries, staff retention and recruitment, and efficiency gains.
“The Financial Services sector, in particular, has been proactive in taking advantage of market conditions, locking in rents and incentives before rents begin to rise considerably,” Phillip Cullity said.
“Tenants now realise that, as they are in competition for the best young talent, they must offer modern accommodation that includes the latest building and technology services, meeting and fitness facilities, access to transport, childcare and cafes.’’
Occupiers were also increasingly mindful of the need for more efficient buildings in reducing costs, a key motive for relocation to higher grade properties. 
One-in-five enquiries for office space in the Melbourne CBD in the first nine months of 2017 had come from insurers and financial services providers, added Cullity. 
Other major financial services moves on the horizon include NAB’s 66,000 square metres pre-commitment to 405 Bourke Street and Vanguard Investments considering 10,000 square metres at Cbus’ Collins Arch project.  
The overall reported CBD leasing activity was marginally up on the 394,997 square metres leased in the 12 months prior. Supply constraints have been having an impact on the market. To put this in perspective, Melbourne CBD’s vacancy rate declined to 6.5% at July 2017 from 7.1%  a year ago.
66% of the total leased space was Prime grade. Direct leases measured 219,874 square metres, while 148,942 square metres was pre-committed space. Growth in pre-committed space was at record high levels, up 350% from 12 months prior. 
The make-up of Melbourne CBD’s occupiers is diverse with the Government &amp; Community sector continuing its domination at 39%, followed by Property &amp; Business Services at 32% and Financial &amp; Insurance ranking the third largest sector by leasing 19%. 
“We can expect a number of significant leases to be concluded prior to the Christmas holiday period resulting from a strong pipeline of occupier requirements in the market,” Cullity said.
Savills tenant enquiry analysis revealed current tenant enquiries (above 500 square metres) measure about 250,000 square metres, all to be leased between the remainder of 2017 and 2018 in the CBD. 
“Last year Melbourne CBD’s net absorption was 128,000 square metres which smashed the 10-year average at 76,000 square metres, and all indications are suggesting that we are in for another strong year.With vacancy levels forecasted to fall further, outlook over the next 12–18 months is expected to be very positive,” Mondkar said. 
NAB’s monthly Business Conditions Index was at 14 points in September 2017 – almost three times the long-run average (+5). Victoria’s economy continues its drive with the strongest population growth in the nation and a major focus on jobs growth.
Latest ABS figures reveal that the largest year on year increases in employment were recorded in Victoria (up 96,791 persons) in August 2017. “What is notable about the Victorian economy is that growth in full-time jobs has been material over the last year indicating stronger employment metrics for Victoria,” according to Ms Mondkar. 
Growth in professional job advertisements in VIC (4.37%) remained considerably higher than the 2.14% national average. Professional job ads have been consistently positive in Victoria over the last three years with job advertisements in August 2017 at their highest level since May 2012. 
“This is clearly reflected in positive net absorption numbers in Melbourne CBD. With growth in professional job ads still strong in the current quarter, it would be prudent to expect this to translate to continued CBD net absorption performance over the 2017-18 period,” said Mondkar.
 <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/23/Savills1.jpg" target="_blank" style="font-size: 12.16px;">Click to enlarge</a>
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Monica Mondkar is an Associate Director of Research in Savills Melbourne. Savills is a leading global real estate service provider offering the full spectrum of services from strategic advice to managing assets and projects and transacting deals. To learn more about Savills, visit <a href="https://www.savills.com.au" target="_blank">savills.com.au</a>
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Finance and insurance leasing at five-year peak: Savills

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A three-level office building in Brisbane’s inner western suburb of Toowong is up for lease after being given a splash of artwork.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-qld-toowong-501803262" target="_blank">555 Coronation Drive</a> office has been given a face lift, with artwork by an Australian artist splashed across the walls of each tenancy.
Four new fitouts are available for lease through Savills and CBRE, who have been jointly appointed on behalf of Centuria. 
Leasing agent Peter Dodd of Savills  said they are looking to provide tenants with a ready-to-go workplace.  
“The four tenancies would suit aspirational smaller business that don’t want to be confined by what a traditional office should look like,” Dodd said. 
Each tenancy features oversized artwork of the familiar famous faces of Audrey Hepburn, David Bowie, Muhammad Ali, and Prince.
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The office spaces range from 145 sqm to 228 sqm, all including boardrooms, kitchen/breakout areas, and 12-17 work stations.
The four office spaces have been designed and furnished to reflect different themes: ‘detailed, fresh, enliven’, ‘enticing, uplifting, contemporary’, ‘welcoming, journey, textured’, and ‘quirky, daring, collaborative’. 
“The artwork was completed by Scott Marsh, and we were really excited when Centuria said they were commissioning him to do some art in each tenancy,” Dodd said. 
Marsh’s work is known for using a mixture of enamels, acrylics and aerosol, which explores the growing crossover between graffiti and high art, pop culture and the cult of the celebrity. 
Earlier this year, Forbes Online cited a research conducted by Exeter University’s School of Psychology that found artwork in the workspace can have a direct impact on employee productivity. 
“A painting can alter the mood of a meeting room or a piece of unusual artwork can provide a talking point in a bland corporate space,” Dodd said.
The office site has views of the Brisbane River.
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Arty office spaces in Brisbane await tenants 

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Lendlease has signed wealth manager AMP as the major tenant in the first of three office buildings at the Melbourne Quarter precinct. 
AMP will lease 9,720 sqm at One Melbourne Quarter on 699 Collins Street. 
The 13-storey building is on track for completion by September 2018, and will also be the new home for Lendlease’s Victorian headquarters and design and engineering firm Arup. 
Lendlease managing director for Urban Regeneration and Infrastructure Development, Mark Menhinnitt, said Melbourne Quarter’s mixed-use precinct had attracted interest from tenants looking to move to Melbourne’s new centre of business activity on Collins Street. 
“Signing a blue-chip tenant like AMP to join us in the heart of the Southern Cross precinct demonstrates how this project promises to revitalise Melbourne’s corporate identity,” Menhinnitt said. 
It is directly opposite Southern Cross Station, overlooking Melbourne’s CBD and Docklands. The precinct will offer green parks, open public spaces and 40 new retail shops, cafes and restaurants. 
More than half the precinct has open green spaces including a Skypark, an elevated new public park on Collins Street that has been a key draw card for businesses. 
One Melbourne Quarter will have now have only one more floor to lease after AMP moves in.
It has been designed by Denton Corker Marshall and the building will target a 6 Star Green Star rating and a 5 star NABERS energy rating. 
The building is the first of three office towers to be constructed in the Melbourne Quarter precinct. 
Once complete, it is expected to accommodate about 130,000 sqm of flexible office space for more than 12,000 workers.
The Lendlease-managed Australian Prime Property Fund Commercial (APPF Commercial) purchased One Melbourne Quarter in November 2016. 
APPF Commercial’s strategy is to focus on next-generation assets that form part of transport-rich precincts with access to green space. Other investments include International Towers at Barangaroo, Darling Square and Darling Quarter in Sydney. 
The fund was recently ranked the world's most sustainable real estate fund in this year’s GRESB index, the third time it has achieved this result. 
GRESB assesses the sustainability performance of real estate sector portfolios and assets in public, private and direct sectors worldwide. 
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Lendlease secures AMP as major tenant at Melbourne Quarter 

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The Victorian government’s Department of Justice &amp; Regulation (DOJR) and Carlton Justice Service Centre are moving into Melbourne CBD’s 50 Franklin Street office building, the former headquarters of Qantas.
The government entities have committed to lease the entire office building in a move that will strategically position them closer to the heart of the city’s legal precinct.
While not giving out the exact leasing figure, Colliers International’s Edward Knowles, who negotiated the 10-year lease, said it was in the low-mid $500 gross per sqm range.
The new tenancy will see Carlton Justice Service Centre relocate from 444 Swanston Street.
The deal follows Colliers International’s sale of the building to listed Singapore-based property company, Lian Beng Group, late last year for more than $51 million.
Earlier this year, Lian Beng sold the historic Newspaper House on Collins Street for $35 million to Malaysian conglomerate Oriental Holdings Berhad.
About the recent government tenancy, Knowles said <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-melbourne-502372342" target="_blank">50 Franklin Street</a> was vacated by call centre operator Salmat in February.
“To then re-lease the whole building in this timeframe attests to the current strength of the Melbourne office leasing market,” he said.
Knowles said the DOJR had committed to a long-term lease of the entire asset, which is approximately 11,500 sqm of net lettable area.
“The proximity to Melbourne’s legal precinct was another appealing factor,” he said.
“It is understood the new tenant will increase the base building’s NABERS energy rating from 1.5 stars to three-plus stars throughout the tenancy term.
 
 
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Victoria's justice department moves into former Qantas building 

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A heritage-listed commercial building in Brisbane’s retail precinct of Queen Street Mall is offering offices for lease.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-qld-brisbane+city-500391471" target="_blank">180 Queen Street</a> building was formerly the National Australia Bank Building.
Several floors of the eight-storey building were refurbished into smaller style executive suites. Office suites up for lease range from 15 sqm to 65 sqm.
It is also NABERS exempt.
The leasing agents are Conor Whiting and Andrea Cano of Colliers.
The property is held by Abacus Property Group and global investment firm Heitman LLC in a joint venture.
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Office suites in Brisbane's iconic 180 Queen Street building up for lease

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NBN Co, which is rolling out the National Broadband Network, is eyeing two new office headquarters in Sydney and Melbourne.
The company, which has come under criticism for slow network speeds and quality, is set to move into Dexus' 100 Mount Street development, close to the new Victoria Cross Metro rail station in North Sydney, The Australian Financial Review reported.
In Melbourne, it is understood to have signed on for around 20,000 square metres at the final tower in billionaire Lang Walker's Collins Square project.
The new Sydney office of NBN has Sydney Harbour views and the company is expected to take half of the 41,500 square metres building that has more than 34 office levels.
Rents could range between $700- $750 per square metre per year, the AFR said.
Meanwhile, in Melbourne, the Collins Square project is well advanced and the last building, known as Tower 5, already has a commitment from Transurban for around 16,000 sq m.
The NBN tenancy will nearly fill that final tower in the $2.5 billion mixed use project.
The NBN deal is expected to be struck at somewhere between $575 and $590 per sq m on a net face rent, according to industry sources.
The tower is due to be completed in 2018.
The timing of the moves come amid a review being ordered by the Federal government as the rollout gets mired with complaints of high costs and poor quality of service.
Already, the company is reviewing the pricing for the $50 billion broadband network.
The chief executive of NBN, Bill Morrow, recently said the company is facing an image problem. Telcos have complained that it was the NBN's pricing mode that was driving up their prices, while at the same time around 15 per cent of users were facing problems.
NBN declined to comment on its leasing plans.
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NBN looking to lease into top-end offices in Sydney and Melbourne 

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Melbourne’s St Kilda Road is experiencing an influx of major businesses in the past 12 months, as witnessed by a recent leasing office deal in the precinct. 
Perth-based landlord Lester Group’s office asset at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-melbourne-501843394" target="_blank">324 St Kilda Road</a>, which was previously leased to Target, has found three new tenants across five floors totalling 4,500 sqm. 
Sales solutions provider The SMART Group has relocated from Richmond, committing to levels two and six; waste, water and energy solutions provider Veolia has relocated from South Melbourne, committing to level five; and claims management solutions provider Crawford &amp; Company has relocated from Southbank, committing to levels three and four, according to leasing agents from Colliers International.
The vacancies were created after Target, which leased five floors in the building between 2012 and 2015, vacated the space and relocated to Geelong and Bourke Street.
The discount retailer, which is owned by Perth-based Wesfarmers - also a tenant at No.324 - has since committed to a new office building at Williams Landing in Melbourne's west.
The trend is part of a growing number of national and international companies relocating to the city-fringe boulevard, including advertising agency Big Red from Prahran, Just Group from Richmond, Deluxe from South Melbourne and Monash University from various locations. 
The deal was negotiated by Colliers International’s Ben McKendry, Vincent Tran and Matt Cosgrave along with Thorburn Property’s Kenny Thorburn.
The three deals were completed at circa $450 gross per sqm, with multiple options to renew the lease terms.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/07/10/StKilda2.JPG" alt="">
According to Colliers, St Kilda Road’s proximity to the CBD and its high-quality and cost-effective leasing opportunities attract major tenants.
“The successful leasing campaign has vindicated our decision and belief in St Kilda road four years ago when we acquired the building,” Lester Group’s Russell Lester said. 
“324 St Kilda Road is now 100 per cent leased following Target’s relocation to Geelong mid last year, which left Colliers International and Thorburn Property with five floors to lease, each measuring 918 sqm,” Tran said. 
Further reinforcing the precinct’s strong standing within the city-fringe office market, several large multi-national businesses already present on St Kilda Road have opted to remain there, with Macquarie Leasing, WPP and Frasers Property Australia recently renewing their leases.
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