Southern Cross Station anchors the western end of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a>’s CBD, connecting metropolitan and regional rail with tram and bus interchanges in one of the city’s busiest transport corridors.&nbsp;

Just metres away, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a>&nbsp;will place residents in the heart of the city, with immediate access to Spencer Street trams, a growing mix of retail, hospitality and cultural venues, and a neighbourhood evolving into a lively residential precinct.

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a>, the 68-storey project integrates a sculptural glass tower with the heritage-listed Eliza Tinsley Building on a 2,765 sqm site.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the development replaces a previously approved scheme for 813 apartments with a refined offering of just over 600 larger-format residences, responding to a growing owner-occupier demand for spacious city living.

The location sits within a dynamic pocket undergoing significant transformation. Marvel Stadium and the Docklands waterfront are less than 10 minutes away on foot, offering both sports and leisure attractions.&nbsp;

Bourke Street Mall, Queen Victoria Market, and the State Library are all within walking distance, while Flagstaff Gardens, Melbourne’s oldest park, provides a green escape just to the north.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=335425]

Proximity to some of the city’s largest employers and education hubs, including the courts precinct, legal chambers, RMIT, and major hospitals, makes 640 Bourke Street an appealing residential address for professionals, families and students alike.

Education opportunities span all levels. Nearby, Haileybury City Campus offers private schooling just a short walk from 640 Bourke Street. Just beyond the CBD fringe, Carlton Gardens Primary School, one of Melbourne’s oldest state primary schools, and Docklands Primary School provide convenient government schooling options.

Higher education is equally accessible. RMIT University’s city campus spans multiple buildings just a few blocks away, while the University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus is easily reached via tram along Swanston or Elizabeth Streets.

Victoria University’s City Queen campus, focused on law and business, is also close by, positioning 640 Bourke Street within walking distance of three of Melbourne’s major tertiary institutions.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=335414]

The neighbourhood’s retail tapestry continues to evolve into something distinctly local and walkable. Just steps away, Woolworths Metro on Bourke Street ensures that everyday essentials are easily within reach.&nbsp;

For larger shopping trips, Spencer Outlet Centre on Spencer Street and QV Melbourne on the opposite side of the CBD broaden the offering with supermarkets, fashion, dining and specialty stores.

The lane-to-lane vibe unfolds beautifully in nearby arcades and alleys. Hardware Lane, with its European-style red-brick paving and alfresco dining, pulses with jazzy evenings and casual lunches.

A few minutes north, Howey Place and Centre Place offer leafy, boutique-lined lanes where hidden cafés and niche retailers congregate under historic glass-covered cloisters.

Completing this tapestry is the newly opened Mecca “beauty playground” on Bourke Street. Spanning 4,000 sqm over three levels, the flagship blends immersive retail within an art-deco heritage setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=335415]

This finely grained network of shops, eateries, arcades and service outlets defines the everyday lifestyle at 640 Bourke Street - further enriched by over 3,000 sqm of resident amenity including a Turkish-inspired pool, gym, co-working rooms and private cinemas.&nbsp;

Now selling from $640,000 to $3.95 million, with off-the-plan stamp duty concessions available until October 2026. Prospective buyers can visit the on site display gallery which has&nbsp;fully built one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Joel Robinson

640 Bourke Street: A heritage address at the heart of Melbourne

Lower North Shore development specialists&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a>&nbsp;has topped out its new local apartment development,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/northcote-collective-naremburn-2-6-northcote-street-naremburn-nsw-2065">Northcote Collective</a>.&nbsp;

Located in the tightly held suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/naremburn-nsw-2065">Naremburn</a>, Northcote Collective is a collection of just 58 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments designed by award-winning architects Rothelowman.&nbsp;

The building is just a five to 10 minute walk from the heart of Crows Nest and the new&nbsp;St Leonards and Crows Nest Metro stations. Abadeen has also brought doorstep convenience, with a ground-floor retail offering on Northcote Street.

Northcote Collective is being delivered by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/decode">Decode</a> — an iCIRT-rated construction company well regarded in the new development industry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114189 project_image_fid=272840]

“This is an important and exciting moment for Northcote Collective, and we’re proud to celebrate this milestone with our partners, consultants, and future residents,” said Justin Brown, Executive Chairman and Founder of Abadeen.&nbsp;

“From the outset, our vision was to create something truly special for Naremburn — homes that respect the character of the neighbourhood while elevating the standard of Lower North Shore living. With connectivity to transport, retail on the doorstep and a true village lifestyle, this milestone also comes at a perfect time when buyer confidence is returning to the market. I am incredibly proud of our team and of Decode for their dedication in helping us bring this vision to life.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114189 project_image_fid=272865]

The development is two-tiered, with two rooftops for residents. The taller building has an impressive rooftop pool, a rare inclusion in the new Sydney apartment market. The level, with panoramic views, also includes an entertaining terrace with barbecue facilities.

Local downsizers and young professionals are showing the strongest interest in the development, with recent improvements in the property market — supported by three rate cuts in 2025 — boosting borrowing power and buyer confidence.

Auction activity across Sydney surged by almost 30 per cent in recent weeks, with clearance rates above 70 per cent — signalling a renewed wave of buyer demand.

Northcote Collective will welcome buyers in 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114189]

Abadeen tops out Northcote Collective in Naremburn

Sunshine Coast-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/devcon-property-group">Devcon Property Group</a> has acquired one of Maroochydore’s most prominent development sites for $12 million unlocking the potentialfor a mixed-use project in the Cotton Tree precinct.

&nbsp;

The 4,178 sqm site at 41–43 Aerodrome Road—well known locally as the former home to one of Australia’s last Sizzler restaurants—was sold via an off-market expressions of interest campaign by Colliers agents Nick Dowling and Baydn Dodds. More than 70 targeted buyer groups were approached, resulting in multiple competitive offers for the property.

Devcon Property Group Managing Director Michael Kain said the acquisition was a strategic move in line with the company’s focus on delivering high-quality projects in prime coastal locations.&nbsp;

“We’re excited about the possibilities this site, in one of the Sunshine Coast’s most iconic beachside &nbsp;communities, offers for a broad range of development outcomes,” Kain said.

“Its location, ocean view potential, and proximity to the Maroochydore CBD and beach make it an &nbsp;outstanding development prospect. Our plans are to refurbish the existing building and then review &nbsp;development options for the remainder of the site.”&nbsp;

<img alt="Aerodrome Rd site overlooking Beach (Large)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a29dc4ed-68c1-4bec-a4fc-283063dcde1e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Aerodrome%20Rd%20site%20overlooking%20Beach%20%28Large%29.jpg?VersionId=b0WxJWevmLoAfCP4YvGImZpR3rSCJJ9L" />

Colliers Special Projects Manager Baydn Dodds said the sale reflected the ongoing strength of the &nbsp;Sunshine Coast’s development site market, particularly for projects capable of achieving water views. &nbsp;

“Sites of this scale, in walkable beachside locations with ocean views, are tightly held and continue to attract significant interest from both local and national developers,” Baydn Dodds said. &nbsp;

“Holding a prominent position as the former home to one of Australia’s last Sizzler restaurants and more recently occupied by Rashays, the prime site is located just 150 metres from Maroochydore Beach.&nbsp;

“With stunning ocean view potential, located in one of the Sunshine Coast’s best known iconic &nbsp;beachside communities, within steps of shops, cafes and the beach it is no surprise that there was strong interest in the site. The transaction highlights the ongoing depth of demand for well-located &nbsp;mixed-use sites across the Sunshine Coast.”&nbsp;

Colliers Sunshine Coast Managing Director Nick Dowling said the transaction reinforced the &nbsp;Sunshine Coast’s status as one of Australia’s most active development markets.&nbsp;

“The combination of strong population growth, lifestyle appeal, and infrastructure investment is &nbsp;driving demand for quality development opportunities,” Nick Dowling said. &nbsp;

“The Sunshine Coast is one of only three markets nationally to record an increase in crane numbers, &nbsp;reflecting the strength of the region’s construction pipeline.&nbsp;

“Opportunities like this are rare and continue to generate strong buyer interest in the region.”&nbsp;

The Sunshine Coast development market is booming, with several high-profile developers like Cube Developments, Gardner Vaughan Group, and RCQ, planning developments in the region.

Devcon buys Sunshine Coast’s former Sizzler site for new apartment development

Sydney House, the residential redevelopment of the landmark City Tattersall building on Pitt Street in the Sydney CBD, will officially launch to the market this month.

The $800 million development, a joint venture between&nbsp;Singapore-listed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/first-sponsor">First Sponsor</a>&nbsp;and leading Melbourne-based developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/icd-property">ICD Property</a>, will see a glass tower with 241 apartments and a 135-room hotel built above the restored heritage-listed podium.

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The apartments will offer&nbsp;rare northeast-facing views across the sparkling Sydney Harbour and Hyde Park, all positioned above a luxury hotel with exclusive access to premium amenities and five-star lifestyle services.

Internationally acclaimed architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bvn-architecture">BVN Architecture</a>&nbsp;handled the design for the residential component and the interiors for the hotel, while&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fjc-studio">FJC Studio</a>&nbsp;focused on the heritage podium.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12428 project_image_fid=6670]

First Sponsor’s CEO, Neo Teck Pheng, together with ICD Property’s CEO, Matthew Khoo commented that the joint venture team was ecstatic to bring this extraordinary project to market as the first opportunity for those looking to secure their ultimate CBD luxury residence elevated by premium hotel amenities, including select premium services designed for effortless living.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sydney-house-194-204-pitt-street-sydney-nsw-2000">Sydney House</a> will offer a sophisticated expression of modern CBD living, capturing panoramic vistas to Sydney’s most beloved icons, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge as well as Hyde Park out to the North and South Heads,” Khoo said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12428 project_image_fid=312146]

Mr Neo expressed that the reinterpretation of the heritage podium levels will feature an elegant heritage bar and restaurant, along with luxurious hotel and function facilities, enhancing the experience for residents. The historical features will be reborn, ensuring that these grand, opulent spaces will once again be enjoyed, appreciated and celebrated by residents, Sydneysiders as well as interstate and international visitors alike.

Managing sales for the project, SRM Residential Partner Tim Rees said that the team has received an overwhelming response to date, largely from local downsizers and upgraders looking for the ultimate lifestyle purchase.&nbsp;

“Once completed in late 2027, Sydney House will be Sydney CBD’s newest icon blending modern architecture with historic grandeur located in one of the most prestigious enclaves of the CBD,” Rees said.&nbsp;

“Pitt Street is arguably the most significant street in all of Sydney. Just a stone’s throw from Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House, Hyde Park and Darling Harbour, Sydney House offers seamless connection with the CBD and beyond. Pitt Street Mall is literally across the road and there is an abundance of dining and cultural venues in close proximity. The outlook from Sydney House will be breathtaking with views of Hyde Park and Sydney’s famous iconic landmarks on offer.

“Following the trend of other global cities such as New York, London, Paris and Tokyo, luxury inner city apartment living with access to premium hotel amenities is the new ‘trophy home’ for wealthy downsizers or empty-nesters who aren’t looking to slow down, as they want to live in the heart of the action.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=12428 project_image_fid=350624]

The project boasts a prime CBD location surrounded by the city’s most premium shopping centres including David Jones and Westfield Pitt Street as well as some of Sydney's best restaurants, bars,&nbsp;pubs, theatres, museums, art galleries, and parks.

Residents will be able to access the newly opened Sydney Metro Gadigal Station, located within a block from Sydney House. This station provides connectivity to Martin Place (one min), Barangaroo (three mins) and North Sydney (11 mins) as well as Chatswood and Macquarie University through to Castle Hill and Norwest. With services every four minutes during peak times, the Sydney Metro provides the ultimate convenience with 21 stations from Tallawong to Sydenham.

One of Sydney’s leading residential construction companies, particularly in premium off the plan luxury residences, Richard Crookes Constructions, will complete the project in late 2027.&nbsp;

Price guides at Sydney House include one-bedroom apartments from $1.5 million, two-bedroom apartments from $2.3 million and three-bedroom apartments from $5 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=12428]

Set to bring next level luxury to Sydney CBD’s prestige property market

Buyers set for first chance at Sydney House, Sydney CBD's newest landmark tower development

Joint venture partners&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/amalgamated-property-group">Amalgamated Property Group</a>&nbsp;(APG)&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/base-developments">Base Developments</a>&nbsp;have kicked off construction&nbsp;on its second Gold Coast apartment tower, Affinity Broadbeach, which is due for completion in early 2028.

More than 50 per cent of the 180 two- and three-bedroom apartments have sold, with buyers particularly impressed by&nbsp;the spacious and functional floor plans, close proximity to the beach, premium inclusions, and expansive resort-style amenities.

APG has just released a new limited collection of three-bedroom skyhomes with three living rooms and four bathrooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107690 project_image_fid=323744]

Graham Potts, Principal and Founding Director Amalgamated Property Group, said the strong demand for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/affinity-broadbeach-40-46-chelsea-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">Affinity Broadbeach</a> highlights a genuine need for affordable luxury residential developments on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“It’s exciting to see construction kick off on this sought-after project which is set to create a new benchmark in luxe coastal living on the Gold Coast," Potts said.

"Buyers are attracted by the seamless blend of convenience and elegance that Affinity offers, together with the knowledge that our 20-years of industry experience ensures we continue to deliver homes to the same high standards our reputation has been built on."

Capital Construction Queensland, the inhouse construction arm of APG, is handling the building. Potts says having the internal build capability provides buyers with confidence in delivering a high-quality building, referencing Amaya Broadbeach which is nearing completion nearby.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107690 project_image_fid=323199]

Carly Cottam, CEO of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/motiv">MOTIV</a> Group which is selling Affinity, says there's a clear undersupply of property across Southeast Queensland and an even greater shortage of well-designed, spacious residences.

"That’s why Affinity has attracted such strong demand," Cottam says.

"Every detail, from the intricate finishes to the intelligent spatial planning, has been crafted for the discerning owner-occupier. Beyond the residences, the amenity is designed as a true extension of the home."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107690 project_image_fid=6678]

Affinity’s superior amenities are resonating with buyers who are impressed by the range on offer, from the expansive outdoor heated pool, to the state-of-the-art gym, steam and sauna facilities, outdoor entertaining terraces, and a business centre.

"The offering reflects exactly what buyers are seeking when right-sizing or upgrading - spacious residences complemented by curated residential amenity, all within moments of the beach and vibrant retail and dining precincts,” Cottam added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107690 project_image_fid=6676]

Dennis Milin, Principal of Base Developments and Milin Builders, and Director of Capital Constructions Queensland, said the team is excited to deliver another collection of premium homes in the heart of Broadbeach.

"With more than three decades of proven success in construction and development, our award-winning portfolio across the ACT and NSW speaks for itself, now further demonstrated by the strong progress at Amaya Broadbeach on First Avenue in Queensland,"&nbsp;Milin said.

“In partnership with a highly regarded team of designers, engineers and trades, and supported by our experienced Gold Coast construction professionals, we remain committed to delivering projects defined by quality, timeless design and uncompromising standards."

Early works at Affinity are already advancing, with guide walls for shoring and bulk excavation underway.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107690 project_image_fid=323196]

With a proven track record in large premium projects, APG has been developing residential and commercial property across Australia for more than 20 years. APG and Base Developments are the same duo behind the successful Amaya Broadbeach, currently under construction on First Avenue and due for completion in early 2026, as well as a number of other successful joint developments in Canberra, including Botanical in Turner, Kiara in Narrabundah, Ivy in Woden, and the three-tower Oaks precinct in Phillip.

APG is currently building The Eastbourne, 349 homes, a premium office building, and a retail and dining precinct at ANZAC Park East.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107690]

Amalgamated Property Group and Base kick off construction at Affinity Broadbeach

Planning Policy

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Conventional transport infrastructure planning has been based on wholesale commuting to and from the city centre. 
Long-term planning has delivered mass transit systems to cater for high-patronage, hub-and-spoke transport systems. Unfortunately, this has left many city residents <a href="https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-08/Australian%20Infrastructure%20Audit%202019%20-%205.%20Transport.pdf">without basic access to public transport services</a>. And we could never have planned for the impacts of COVID-19.
Our previous plans were based on the best available data at the time. Today, these plans must be critically reviewed using new data that properly represent the world and our transport needs as they are now.
 
Important facts to keep in mind
1: Fewer people commute to work.
The <a href="https://theconversation.com/coronavirus-could-spark-a-revolution-in-working-from-home-are-we-ready-133070">work-from-home transition</a> is well under way. Our current transport networks (except for <a href="https://covid19.apple.com/mobility">roads</a>, which have rebounded to traffic equal to or above pre-pandemic levels in some cities) are operating far below previous levels, even allowing for social distancing. This may not be the best time to break ground on major infrastructure projects planned under previous assumptions of population and demand growth.
2: Disadvantaged populations lack access to opportunities.
Public transport is key to enabling everyone in a population to be a productive member of society. Many disadvantaged groups cannot drive or afford car ownership. However, they also <a href="https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/publications/outer-urban-public-transport-improving-accessibility-lower-density-areas">lack access to public transport</a>, particularly in the outer suburbs.
Unfortunately, coronavirus impacts will <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-coronavirus-will-deepen-the-inequality-of-our-suburbs-143432">hit the disadvantaged the hardest</a>. If we want everyone to be able to participate in the economic recovery, we need to promote basic levels of access regardless of an individual’s circumstance.
 
3: Population growth will not meet projections.
Migration bans will greatly reduce short-term growth. Current projections show a population <a href="https://theconversation.com/1-4-million-less-than-projected-how-coronavirus-could-hit-australias-population-in-the-next-20-years-143544">up to 4% smaller in 2040</a> than it would have been in a non-COVID world. This will further decrease demand for urban transit services as well as demand across many sectors of our society. These trends are important because much of our planning is based around these population growth metrics.
However, our suburbs still lack basic public transport services. If we want to increase patronage, we need to bring services to more people by improving coverage of our <a href="https://theconversation.com/no-need-to-give-up-on-crowded-cities-we-can-make-density-so-much-better-131304">sprawling, low-density cities</a>.
<a href="https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/publications/outer-urban-public-transport-improving-accessibility-lower-density-areas">Over 80% of the population</a> of our biggest cities live in the outer and middle suburbs, yet this massive majority have limited to no basic public transport service. Across our five largest cities, Infrastructure Australia <a href="https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/publications/outer-urban-public-transport-improving-accessibility-lower-density-areas">reports</a>, “public transport disadvantage in outer suburbs is significant”.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/353993/original/file-20200821-18-1ctpvl6.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="Populations living in inner, middle and outer suburbs of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide"> Estimated resident population by suburban classification, as count and proportion of city population. <a class="source" href="https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/publications/outer-urban-public-transport-improving-accessibility-lower-density-areas">Infrastructure Australia: Outer Urban Public Transport: Improving accessibility in lower-density areas</a>
Households’ <a href="https://theconversation.com/rapid-growth-is-widening-melbournes-social-and-economic-divide-117244">access to jobs and services gets much worse</a> with increasing distance from the city centre. Development of suburban and regional <a href="https://theconversation.com/for-mobility-as-a-service-maas-to-solve-our-transport-woes-some-things-need-to-change-105119">mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) offerings</a> could promote better access in these “harder to serve” areas.
Moving the country forward
Job creation will be an important aspect of economic recovery. Yet too often we look to large construction projects as the answer. There is plenty of other job-creating work to be done in our communities.
We could, for example, increase the <a href="https://theconversation.com/cycling-and-walking-can-help-drive-australias-recovery-but-not-with-less-than-2-of-transport-budgets-142176">miserly funding</a> for our piecemeal walking and cycling networks.
We could also <a href="https://theconversation.com/1-million-rides-and-counting-on-demand-services-bring-public-transport-to-the-suburbs-132355">expand on-demand services</a> to suburban and rural residents who lack basic public transport access. On-demand transit does not follow fixed routes or timetables. Riders book a trip for a cost similar to a bus fare.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/362371/original/file-20201008-14-1j0ilu4.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="Passenger waiting to board a Bridj on-demand bus service."> Bridj is one of the operators that is expanding on-demand services in Sydney and other cities. <a class="source" href="https://www.facebook.com/TakeBridj/photos/a.1412498639012150/2080642258864448/">Bridj Transit Systems/Facebook</a>
These options will <a href="https://theconversation.com/do-the-sums-bicycle-friendly-changes-are-good-business-58213">encourage local spending to support small businesses</a>. These are an important piece of our social fabric and improve <a href="https://theconversation.com/coronavirus-reminds-us-how-liveable-neighbourhoods-matter-for-our-well-being-135806">livability in our communities</a>.
We need to look locally
A focus on localised investment in the many neglected communities across the country will deliver major benefits. Money already committed to large projects that are under way represents sunk costs that may be too deep to renegotiate. However, future plans using public funds must be re-examined.
Investments should target disadvantaged groups and broaden access to transport networks, encouraging new potential users. For many, assistance in gaining access to the necessities of life will be invaluable during the coming economic recovery. Guaranteed access to groceries, medical services, work opportunities and <a href="https://theconversation.com/parks-and-green-spaces-are-important-for-our-mental-health-but-we-need-to-make-sure-that-everyone-can-benefit-142322">recreational activities</a> must not be reserved for the elite.
We need better localised public transport and we need it for the majority of citizens, not just those who live in the inner suburbs of our capital cities. Most regional populations lack even rudimentary public transport coverage at reasonable frequency.
Increasing services in these areas will create valuable jobs that will stick around, unlike large one-off construction projects. The money will stay local, going into the pockets of operators who live and work in their own community.
While our long-term planning is not to blame for our current situation, we need to develop for the future, not the past. The <a href="https://theconversation.com/westconnex-audit-offers-another-17b-lesson-in-how-not-to-fund-infrastructure-73206">financial costs</a> of building and maintaining our current infrastructure are not going away. However, we can no longer refuse to invest in many of our underserved communities.
It is time to ensure everyone, regardless of their income or where they grow up, has the basic services they need to be a productive member of society.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/144802/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/benjamin-kaufman-611843">Benjamin Kaufman</a>, PhD Candidate, Cities Research Institute, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/griffith-university-828">Griffith University</a>
This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/covid-impacts-demand-a-change-of-plan-funding-a-shift-from-commuting-to-living-locally-144802">original article</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

COVID impacts demand a change of plan: funding a shift from commuting to living locally

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EXPERT OBSERVATION 
The NSW Government has extended the implementation date of two important planning policies by four months, as a sign that planning is slowing in NSW.
The Low Rise Medium Density Housing Code was due to begin on July 1 2019 across all councils after being delayed for a year. But last Friday the planning regulations were changed to give 46 councils another four months to implement the code in their planning documents.
Sydney council Lane Cove has implemented the code from July 1 but they changed their Local Environmental Plan to prohibit multi dwelling housing in R2 Low Density Residential zones which dramatically reduces the availability of land where the code could apply.
It is likely that the 46 councils given another four months to implement the code will also restrict areas it can be applied.
The Urban Taskforce believes the ‘Missing Middle’ code has generated a perception across Sydney’s councils that it could change the character of the suburbs, and we recommended that councils define significant appropriate areas where a town house typology would be appropriate.
Last Friday also saw an extension given to the deadline for councils to produce a Draft LocalStrategic Planning Statement by 1 July 2019 to now be required by 1 October 2019.
The final statements were due on 1 December 2019 but these have been extended by four months to 31 March 2020.
Originally Sydney councils had to finalise their strategic plans by 1 July 2019 but in September 2018 councils were given an extra five months until 1 December 2019.”
The Urban Taskforce is concerned at the slowness of the implementation of these planning policies, as Planning Minister Rob Stokes has stated that his preference is to bed down the planning system so all parties have clear, fixed rules - but it seems the time span to do this is stretching out as the state government and councils try to drive outcomes.
CHRIS JOHNSON is the Urban Taskforce CEO
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cjohnson-8xfqfuuCSq

NSW planning policy deadline extension is a concern: Chris Johnson

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The recent slowing in price growth, and even sizeable price declines, provides some Sydney first time buyers with opportunist purchasing prospects.
But while intense competition from investors has dropped off, there has been renewed demand arising from the overseas migration into Sydney.
Accordingly decentralisation should be more seriously on the agenda of all government as a means of addressing the affordability and liveability issues that young Sydneysiders confront.
We need to develop regional hubs where people can live, own, work and play without being expected to endure undue mortgage stress.
I'm old enough to recall the beginnings of what became the failed Albury-Wodonga decentralisation experiment. 
It was the 1973 vision of Premiers Sir Robert Askin and Sir Rupert Hamer overseen by Prime Minister Gough Whitlam.
“Whitlamabad” as the soon-gone Prime Minister often jested.
Divided by more than a river, the scheme tried to undo state borders with the ensuing rivalry a recipe for disaster.
I was thinking of the failure when I veered off the Hume Highway for a quick lunch while recently driving between Sydney and Melbourne.
My prawns, crisp lettuce and avocado with a squeeze of farm gate lemon was superb. 
Here I was five hours inland on a stinking hot day over the Christmas break. Nothing that I couldn't have had at the seriously overcrowded Westfield Bondi Junction.
Lunch was doable because there's no tyranny of distance with food anymore, so why not our lifes.
What is so unpalatable to our smart youthful generations about living outside the big smoke?
Our entrenched public service bureacracies have a mindset which holds back the embrace of decentralisation.
Indeed it was public servants in Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne who were horrified at the prospect of any forced move to Albury-Wodonga decades ago.
That self interest ensured the current crushing commutes are the daily outcome for much of the Sydney population.
But there are now bigger influences at work through globalisation. The emerging gig economy will certainly enable the great shift out - and cheaper travel and accomodation from the distruptive economy will assist those who have to occasionally come back into the rat race.
While the forces of disruption make their way through most industries, the antiquated public service mentality remains intact.
The recently unveiled vision of the Greater Sydney Commission of a ‘metropolis of three cities’ – Eastern Harbour City (the current CBD), the Central City (Parramatta and surrounds) and the ‘Western Parkland City’ (clustered around the Badgerys Creek Airport, Penrith and Campbelltown) - didn't inspire me.
The need is for increased housing supply incentives outside our key centres.
Decentralising will also assist in making urban life better for those who remain, not just the smashed avocado generation who really do aspire to home ownership, and a lifestyle somewhere, without too much stress.
This article first appeared in the Daily Telegraph. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Decentralisation should be a key home affordability response by government

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Cities policy in Australia has historically had a clear focus on the largest state capitals, but there are signs this is changing. Recent City Deals and smart cities funding shows that five of the six City Deals now in place are regional, and 55% of Smart Cities and Suburbs Program funding also went to regional cities. On the evidence so far, regional cities appear to be in the spotlight for the Australian government’s cities policy agenda.
Big and small cities matter to Australia. They are the concentrations of population, economic output, trade, commerce, cultural and social life. They are also the sites where most of the nation’s future growth, both population and economic, is forecast to occur. Australia’s economic future is closely linked to that of its cities.
In 2015, there was much excitement when the Turnbull government first announced a cities agenda, which (after a rocky start) delivered the Smart Cities Plan.
This was followed by two City Deal announcements and in 2017 much “busy work” behind the scenes; for many watching the City Deals space it was very quiet. By early 2018, when the most recent deals were signed, things had started to move in city policy, and recognition of the important role of regional cities became quite clear.
Regional cities now in the picture
Regional cities have been largely absent in past urban policy programs and debates. Most programs have focused on big city challenges: congestion, pollution, affordable housing, public transport and urban sprawl. The advent of the Smart Cities Plan has changed this with its focus on innovative policy mechanisms that require collaborative investment to drive national economic outcomes.
Many regional cities were waiting to see how the new agenda would roll out in reality. Recent interest has highlighted the role and importance of the smaller, regional cities’ economic performance. Still, too little discussion has occurred on their role in national policy.
Australian cities come in all shapes and sizes, from 50,000 to 5 million. Big metropolitan cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide) as well as Australia’s smaller regional cities (Cairns to Hobart, Shepparton to Mandurah – 31 in total) are part of a growing national network of cities.
Internationally, the role of stimulating the economies of regional or second cities to lift overall national performance has been much more closely considered and acted on in the form of policy and programs. With the emerging emphasis on regional City Deals and Smart Cities funding, perhaps Australia is beginning to act on the lessons from overseas.
Regional cities benefit from funding shift
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/203728/original/file-20180129-100905-1u6ev2w.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
 Author provided
When we look at the City Deals announcements made and agreements reached, we see that these still involve only an elite group of six cities (see timeline of agreements). Five of the six are regional cities: Launceston, Townsville, Darwin, Hobart and Geelong.
Of course another way of looking at this is that half the City Deals involve capital cities. Either way, this is a higher proportion of investment in regional cities than programs from decades ago, such as Building Better Cities (1991-96).
The regional focus is also very evident in the first round of funding released under the Smart Suburbs and Cities Program, a pillar of the Smart Cities Plan. Initial funding in 2017 was directed to delivering innovative projects to improve the liveability, productivity and sustainability of cities and towns across Australia.
Half of the first-round grants under the program (see table below) went to regional towns and cities. Two decades earlier, they received just over a third under the Building Better Cities program.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/203727/original/file-20180129-100912-19g68qd.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
 ‘Other’ category indicates a project that involves both metropolitan and regional cities. Author provided
A breakdown of the 2017 funding round shows regional cities received 55% of the grant funds. The metropolitan “big five” received only 34%.
Future directions for regional cities
The City Deals policy and Smart Suburbs and Cities Program are pillars of the Smart Cities Plan. And both have had stronger regional city representation. Why?
First, European evidence is pointing to potentially stronger economic output per person where there are many cities, as opposed to only one or two big cities, driving a nation’s growth. Hence, investing in regional cities could be a reflection of the development opportunities for small cities to contribute to national economic growth – rather than focusing all policy effort on fixing big city problems like congestion. This multi-city investment might then stimulate stronger national economic growth, compared to a purely two-city investment strategy.
Second, it could be because both City Deals and the Smart Cities Plan are trials of new policy mechanisms. City Deals is a partnership requiring cross-jurisdictional and issues-based negotiations with local, state and federal government agencies for success. The Smart Cities and Suburbs Program is essentially a technology funding program based on collaboration with private enterprises to deliver local solutions on the ground.
Regional cities are ideal test beds for these policy mechanisms. They are contained entities, where engagement is clear and vertical, transaction costs are low, and learnings are transferable to other (bigger) cities. This ensures a clear role for experimenting with policy mechanisms.
But what about the longer term? Is it just convenient to work in smaller cities with proof of concepts? Will the real innovation be centralised back into the metropolitan areas? And will the nation spread the economic growth load across the nation or concentrate it among the few big cities? Only time will tell.
In 2015 Jago Dodson asked: “Could the federal government finally ‘get’ cities?” Recent progress looks promising. We are starting to see a national cities policy, rather than just a big cities policy.
Leonie Pearson, Adjunct Associate, University of Canberra
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/cities-policy-goes-regional-90856" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Cities policy goes regional: Leonie Pearson

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/80082/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-advanced" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
Liveability is an increasingly important goal of Australian planning policy. And creating cities where residents can get to most of the services they need within 20 to 30 minutes has been proposed, at both federaland state level, as a key liveability-related mechanism. 
The previous federal government’s 2010 National Urban Policy stated:
"Liveable cities are socially inclusive, affordable, accessible, healthy, safe and resilient to the impacts of climate change … Liveable cities provide choice and opportunity for people to live their lives, and raise their families, to their fullest potential."
In Victoria, keeping Melbourne “attractive and liveable” is the cornerstone of the state government’s newly updated Plan Melbourne 2017-2050 strategy. Liveability is seen as a way to stay globally competitive, attracting more business and more international students, Victoria’s most profitable service export.
Our summary of research on liveability indicators also points to strong links with general population health and environmental sustainability. 
Plan Melbourne’s vision of liveability involves:
"… a city of 20-minute neighbourhoods … where people can access most of their needs within a 20-minute walk, cycle or public transport trip."
The plan discusses people’s need for access to a long list of local services – shopping centres, health facilities, schools and lifelong learning opportunities, playgrounds and parks (including community gardens, green spaces and recreation facilities), affordable housing (including the ability to age in place) and “local public transport”. 
It also values attributes such as “safe”, “walkable” and “attractive”. Specifically excluded is a 20-minute commute to most employment, although the plan mentions local work opportunities. 
To create a city of 20-minute neighbourhoods over Plan Melbourne’s 30-year time frame, at least three strategic planning challenges must be overcome. 
<h2>How do we define and measure success?</h2>
First, the plan fails to specify what access means and how it is measured, as well as what local needs are key. For instance, the average speed of a leisurely walk by a healthy adult along a relatively flat footpath is five kilometres per hour. Older and younger pedestrians may be slower. 
Including the time lost to stopping at intersections and meandering footpaths, a “pedshed” analysis often equates a 20-minute walk with a distance of 800 metres. 
Plan Melbourne does not list the essential social infrastructure or distance measurement methods that will be used to create the 20-minute radius for each neighbourhood. This poses problems for the important task of tracking progress. 
In contrast, the US city of Portland’s strategic plan for a 20-minute city requires four key pieces of social infrastructure located close to affordable residential housing. These are: public primary schools, grocery stores, green parks, and public transport stops with minimum travel frequency standards. 
 
In Australia, given our growing elderly population, bulk-billing health services might also be required infrastructure in each 20-minute neighbourhood. 
<h2>Infrastructure deficit is daunting</h2>
In 1995, homes selling for A$100,000 or less were well within the means of median-income households in areas with good public transport access, like Maribyrnong, Dandenong and Heidelberg. 
By 2015, homes selling for $415,000 (the new 25th percentile) were in areas like Gippsland, Sunbury and Bacchus Marsh. That’s well beyond the reach of metropolitan public transport. 
Plan Melbourne does talk of “two cities” – the well-serviced, unaffordable central city, and underserviced middle and outer suburbs. But the plan does not adequately recognise the city’s severe and unfairly distributed infrastructure deficit. 
The words “liveable” and “liveability” appear 40 times in 152 pages (with prefixes such as “protect”, “improve” and “world-renowned”); “equitable” and “equity” only five times. 
This infrastructure deficit casts a daunting shadow over Plan Melbourne. To provide adequate transport and health services to Melbourne’s outer suburbs, SGS Economics and Planning, working with the National Growth Areas Authority, estimated funding of $5 billion a year will be needed over the next 15 years. 
The Grattan Institute has calculated that Victoria will need around 220 new schools, mostly in outer suburbs, over the next ten years. Each primary school costs an average of $15 million to build, and high schools more than twice that. 
In May, the state auditor highlighted the chronic underfunding of 1,500 existing primary schools as a concern. The report also emphasised the need to greatly improve strategic planning for new schools. 
Social housing, recognised as a vital priority in Infrastructure Victoria’s recent 30-year strategy, is a critical shortfall across Melbourne. The shortfall is particularly acute in areas with adequate infrastructure. The strategy estimates 75,000 to 100,000 low-income households’ needs are unmet. 
To keep pace with population growth, 50,000 dwellings a year must be built. At least half would need to be accessible to households in the bottom half of the income scale. 
A Commonwealth advisory report on housing affordability found almost half of Australian renters are in housing stress, as median home ownership costs have risen from the recommended 2.5 times annual household income to well over six times. 
The well-serviced central cities have the highest housing prices, with Sydney and Melbourne the worst. 
Plan Melbourne talks about housing affordability in general terms. What it lacks is specific affordable housing targets for inner and middle suburbs with adequate infrastructure to overcome inequalities in delivering the 20-minute city.
<h2>Tax system hinders funding</h2>
The state is responsible for strategic planning and most infrastructure provision, but the Commonwealth controls most of Australia’s tax revenue. The result is that, despite being home to one in four Australians, Victoria gets only about 8% of federal infrastructure spending.
And the federal government is one of the main contributors to the affordable housing crisis by subsidising housing speculation through negative gearing and capital gains tax exemption. 
The Grattan Institute estimates these measures cost the budget almost $11.7 billion per year. That’s enough to fund essential infrastructure improvements across Australia. 
<h2>Possible pathways to improvement</h2>
So what is the prognosis for 20-minute cities? What could be done to increase the chances of achieving this important goal? 
The state government could clarify its definition of key access indicators, and begin mapping 20-minute access by neighbourhood to monitor progress, as Portland does.
Vancouver, Canada, has included access indicators in its planning for family-friendly, high-density housing since 1992. The indicators include a maximum distance of 800 metres to a community centre, a grocery store, a public primary school and associated play area, daycare centre and after-school care; and 400 metres to a playground and a frequently serviced public transport stop.
An evaluation of the 50,000 residents in the central Vancouver community of False Creek North showed high levels of satisfaction among households that settled there.
Victoria could also follow Portland’s example of giving priority to improving infrastructure in under-serviced areas and to providing affordable housing in well-serviced areas. Plan Melbourne still lacks mechanisms to achieve this.
The 20-minute city is a worthy goal. As difficult as it may be to imagine at the moment, federal, state and local governments must collaborate, along with private developers and investors, if the access needs of all city residents are to be met.
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/carolyn-whitzman-9944" target="_blank">Carolyn Whitzman</a> is Professor of Urban Planning, University of Melbourne and author for <a href="https://theconversation.com/au" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.
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