Adding to Chatswood’s growing skyline, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-anderson-chatswood-54-56-anderson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">The Anderson</a> is grounded in a simple principle: apartment living in a major centre does not have to come at the expense of space and outlook.

Set on Anderson Street in the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a>, the new residential tower, a collaboration between developers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huirong-group">Huirong Group</a> with architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ajc-architects">AJC Architects</a>, will introduce 122 apartments that prioritise generous proportions, considered orientation, and a strong connection to the surrounding heritage precinct.

The design originated from a Design Excellence Competition, where AJC proposed a building that combines suburban-style apartment scale with the density expected in a transport-rich centre. The development will include more than 1,800 square metres of retail and commercial space at street level, landscaped communal roof terraces, and a ground-floor pocket park framed by canopy trees. Together these elements aim to create a building that integrates with Chatswood’s evolving streetscape while maintaining a strong residential focus.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353250]

A key driver behind the architecture was the desire to deliver family-sized apartments rarely seen in the Chatswood market. The Anderson includes a mix of one to four-bedroom apartments, with around 35 per cent of the residences configured as three or four-bedroom homes. At the top of the building, two double-storey penthouses span approximately 200 square metres each, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on scale and long-term liveability for both downsizers and intergenerational households.

Orientation and outlook were central to the planning of the building. The apartments are positioned to maximise views to the north and east across Chatswood’s heritage precinct, with upper levels capturing glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. South-facing apartments gain distant views toward the Sydney CBD and Harbour Bridge, while the building’s configuration intentionally reduces western exposure at lower levels to minimise overlooking toward the nearby railway corridor.

The external design references the character of the surrounding conservation area without replicating it directly. A brick podium anchors the building to the street and introduces a series of architectural portals that draw inspiration from the nearby Chatswood Presbyterian Church. Above this base, the tower shifts to a lighter, more open expression defined by horizontal lines and carefully detailed balconies that balance privacy with outward views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353254]

Toward the top of the tower, AJC introduces a distinctive lantern-like element formed by sliding screens. These screens provide both solar shading and privacy while also creating a visual marker for the building within the Chatswood skyline. The feature reinforces the architectural intent of the project, a structure that is visually refined while still responding to the practical requirements of apartment living.

Inside the residences, interior architecture by Hayball focuses on clear spatial flow and practical everyday use. Open-plan living areas connect directly to large balconies, extending the internal living spaces outward and allowing natural light to move deeper into the apartments. Kitchens are designed as central working spaces with premium appliances and carefully selected materials, positioned to serve both daily living and entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353256]

Bathrooms follow a similarly restrained design language, using refined fixtures and materials to create calm, functional spaces, while wardrobe areas adopt a gallery-style layout with integrated lighting and generous storage. These elements reflect a broader design approach that prioritises clarity, functionality, and durability over decorative gestures.

Positioned just a short walk from Chatswood Interchange, residents will have direct access to rail, metro, retail, and dining. The Metro extension allows travel from Chatswood to Martin Place in approximately 11 minutes, placing the CBD within easy reach for residents while maintaining the convenience of a walkable North Shore neighbourhood.

One-bedroom apartments at The Anderson start from $1,022,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151353]

Joel Robinson

How AJC designed The Anderson to bring oversized apartment living to Chatswood

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bridgewell-development">Bridgewell Capital</a> has lodged plans for a major mixed-use apartment development in the heart of Maroubra, seeking a significant uplift in height and density controls to deliver 120 apartments and a 120-place childcare centre near Maroubra Junction.

The State Significant Development application, filed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, covers a 3,270 sqm amalgamated site at 251-257 Maroubra Road and 133-135 Garden Street. The proposal includes a concurrent rezoning that would increase the maximum building height from 12 metres to 35.6 metres and lift the floor space ratio to 4.02:1.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the project would replace a mechanic’s workshop and several detached homes with a 10-storey residential building above four basement levels.

The scheme comprises 120 apartments, including 27 affordable housing units to be managed by a community housing provider for 15 years, alongside 203 basement car spaces and 92 bicycle spaces. A childcare centre occupying nearly 900 sqm of floor area would sit at ground level and be capable of accommodating 120 children and 22 staff.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="038a0639-f9e4-4303-8fcc-d43e73fa480f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20pers.png?VersionId=eGBElxmNqJW.YF3JFYgHTnPgAstdyXR3" />

According to the Design Report, the project has been conceived as a “gateway proposal” that responds to Maroubra’s evolving urban character and its proximity to the town centre.

“Designed to complement the character of Maroubra’s town centre, this gateway proposal features a building scale that matches its surroundings,” the report stated.

“It integrates residential units above a ground-level childcare centre, fulfilling the strategic objectives of the Randwick City Council Masterplan.”

The apartment mix is weighted toward larger residences aimed at families and downsizers, reflecting changing demographics in the Randwick LGA and increasing demand for medium-density housing close to transport and amenity.

BKA Architecture said the proposal seeks to reinforce Maroubra Road as a civic spine while improving the pedestrian experience around the site through landscaping and upgraded public interfaces.

“The design capitalises on the following site opportunities: reinforcement of Maroubra Road as a civic spine, enhancement of pedestrian pathways and the public interface via new landscaping, and strong market demand for two and three-bedroom apartments to support families and down-sizers,” the Design Report noted.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee509779-3c7e-4918-b03d-761c785459d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20site.png?VersionId=eZC4Ruyn.C7O.Qwfr1SVeP5.ds1c5.66" />

The building has been designed with setbacks and articulation intended to transition between the commercial intensity of Maroubra Junction and the surrounding lower-scale residential neighbourhoods. Communal open space is proposed on level one, while upper-level apartments would secure views towards Port Botany, Maroubra Beach and Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

The development sits around 200 metres east of the Maroubra Junction intersection of Anzac Parade and Maroubra Road, within one of Randwick’s identified strategic centres. The site is close to Pacific Square Shopping Centre, major bus routes, schools, parks and future cycling infrastructure proposed under the Maroubra Junction Masterplan.

The Maroubra proposal aligns with broader NSW Government initiatives encouraging higher-density housing near established centres and transport corridors, particularly where affordable housing is incorporated.

Bridgewell is also working on a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/goldfields-sets-the-stage-as-quartet-milton-launches">new 55-unit project in Killara</a>.

First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre

National diversified developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has launched its latest Brisbane apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet Milton</a>, marking its entry into the sought-after inner-city suburb just two kilometres from the CBD.

The circa $100 million development will rise 18 storeys and deliver 131 apartments, offering a mix of one, two-, and three-bedroom residences.

Ideally located on Manning Street, Quartet residents will be within 300 metres of Milton Station, 500 metres from the Milton Ferry Wharf, and a short walk to Milton Markets, the iconic Park Road, as well as a range of breweries and cafés.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

Designed by architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, the building features a simple, gridded façade paired with generous glazing to enhance views, maximise aspect, and capture both sunrises and sunsets from within the apartments and their generously sized balconies.

Residents will have access to a 1,000 sqm rooftop, curated to balance wellness and entertaining, in response to increasing demand for wellness-focused shared spaces.

"We've approached Quartet Milton as a complete lifestyle offering, not just apartments, but a place where the design, amenities, and location all work together in a meaningful way," says Goldfields Managing Director Lachlan Thompson.

"Buyers are looking for that sense of confidence, knowing the vision has been carefully thought through not just by us as developers, but by all our consultants appointed to bring this together, and that it will be delivered to the standard they expect."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Cera Stribley Co-Founder and Managing Principal Domenic Cerantonio said the rooftop is designed to feel like a place "you'd genuinely use every day."

"A 25-metre pool framed by city and mountain views, wellness areas, and private dining spaces for evenings with friends create a setting designed for year-round comfort and effortless Brisbane living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

In addition to the 25-metre pool, the rooftop will include a sauna, cold plunge, fully equipped gym, and zen gardens, all complemented by panoramic views of the city and river.

While the building is expected to appeal predominantly to owner-occupiers, Goldfields anticipates interest from investors seeking strong rental returns, driven by the project's design, location, and the city's projected capital growth in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367991]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>, widely regarded as one of Brisbane's most desirable inner-ring suburbs due to its lifestyle offering and proximity to the CBD, has experienced a shortage of new apartment supply in recent years.

Goldfields is already active in the Brisbane residential market through its Ripley Valley masterplanned community, Hayfield. The 109-hectare neighbourhood is already home to more than 300 families and features a large community park.

Plans for the precinct include a 4 km running track, future schools, and retail and commercial amenities, all within a 35-minute drive of the Brisbane CBD.

Goldfields also plans to deliver a new mixed-use tower at 88 Robertson Street in Fortitude Valley, within the James Street precinct. The project will include 16,000 sqm of boutique commercial space, a level of wellness facilities, and a rooftop restaurant and event space, akin to Goldfields House in South Yarra, its flagship mixed-use development on Chapel Street, which is crowned by the Beverly Rooftop bar, one of Melbourne’s best-known venues.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Goldfields sets the stage as Quartet Milton launches

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a> and Homes NSW have taken the next major step in the transformation of Waterloo Estate, lodging a Concept State Significant Development Application and concurrent rezoning proposal for the renewal of Waterloo South.

The proposal, now on public exhibition, outlines plans for around 3,300 new homes across the 12.3-hectare precinct. A minimum 30 per cent of residential gross floor area will be delivered as social housing, approximately 20 per cent as affordable housing, and a maximum 50 per cent as market housing. The redevelopment would more than quadruple the number of homes currently on the site and more than double the existing supply of social and affordable housing.

The renewal of Waterloo South forms the first stage of the broader Waterloo Estate transformation and is set to unfold over the next 10 to 15 years. The estate currently contains 750 social housing dwellings and 120 private homes.

<img alt="First look: Stockland and Homes NSW unveil plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba2da34b-171b-4ff1-b0c7-4baf0bce97f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Waterloo%20public.png?VersionId=S5apPKOqjPHJhk_SzCvdVPxsEBYs300o" />

The proposal, prepared by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> and Beam Planning, spans 10 street blocks bounded by Cope, Raglan, George, Wellington, Gibson, Kellick, Pitt and McEvoy Streets, directly adjoining the Waterloo Metro Station precinct and within walking distance of Redfern and Green Square stations.

Under the masterplan, building heights would range from two to 33 storeys, delivering approximately 282,485 sqm of residential floor space alongside at least 10,000 sqm of non-residential uses and a minimum 5,000 sqm of community space. The planning framework has been specifically structured to support the mixed-tenure outcome, with the residential gross floor area capped at a maximum 50 per cent market housing allocation.&nbsp;

The Urban Design Report describes the vision as creating “a unique and vibrant mixed-tenure housing precinct that supports the needs of the community and delivers much needed housing in response to National and State Government priorities.”&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Stockland and Homes NSW unveil plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6e1a6d8b-0626-4fa7-94fc-aa91c0af86dc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/waterloo%20per.png?VersionId=duyiJTFOeezTNdM22leI3SoHuqnW6ZaY" />

A major focus of the revised proposal has been increasing the social and affordable housing component. The Minns Government increased the affordable and public housing allocation from 35 per cent to 50 per cent after coming to office in 2023.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said the changes were critical to maintaining Waterloo’s social diversity.

“When we came to government, we immediately reviewed the plans for the Waterloo renewal and boosted the number of public and affordable homes from 35 to 50 per cent,” Jackson said.

“This was a crucial step to ensure Waterloo remains a welcoming place for people from all walks of life to call home now and into the future.”&nbsp;

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the project would reshape the precinct for generations.

“This concept DA brings thousands of new public, affordable and market homes on the doorstep of the Waterloo Metro station another step closer to reality,” Scully said.

“Importantly, alongside the new homes the plan also proposes new open space where residents and the broader community can gather, relax and play.”&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Stockland and Homes NSW unveil plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="867520cb-6e07-4204-885e-53793ac88066" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Waterloo%20public%20a.png?VersionId=lgSI85Q23xBLYLC9NcWKuWZY2HfP4zQ3" />

Stockland Managing Director and CEO Tarun Gupta said the project had been shaped around long-term liveability and community infrastructure.

“As delivery partner, Stockland is proud to be working with the NSW Government on the renewal of Waterloo South – a significant project with community at its heart,” Gupta said.&nbsp;

The planning documents place strong emphasis on “Designing with Country,” recognising the site’s location on Gadigal land. The masterplan incorporates new east-west pedestrian links, activated streetscapes, rooftop communal spaces, retail frontages, and landscaped public areas intended to improve permeability and community connection throughout the estate.&nbsp;

The proposal also seeks to establish a more flexible planning framework for future detailed SSDAs, including updated provisions for educational uses, creative industries, rooftop communal areas, and active frontages. A minimum seven per cent of residential floor space will be delivered as affordable housing managed in perpetuity by community housing provider City West Housing.&nbsp;

The Social Impact Assessment prepared by Urbis describes the renewal as one of Australia’s most significant public housing transformations, identifying substantial long-term positive impacts associated with housing supply, accessibility, public domain improvements, and community infrastructure.&nbsp;

Stockland and Homes NSW have already commenced the first stage of resident relocations, with some tenants moved into newly completed homes at Waterloo Metro Quarter and the Boronia development nearby.

First look: Stockland, NSW Gov, unveils plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/smith-by-valli-collingwood-224-228-smith-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Smith Collingwood</a> is a new boutique apartment development bringing a refined, design-led approach to one of Melbourne’s most established inner-city neighbourhoods.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pandolfini-architects">Pandolfini Architects</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/lisa-buxton-interiors">Lisa Buxton</a>, Smith by Valli sits on iconic Smith Street and comprises just 22 residences tailored toward owner-occupiers seeking a more considered style of apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367540]

The design of Smith focuses on a north-facing orientation across all residences, a relatively uncommon feature in dense inner-Melbourne settings. Each apartment has been planned to maximise natural light and outlook, alongside a material palette defined by warm tones, custom joinery, and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances.

The development comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with pricing currently ranging from just under $1 million to around $4.85 million for the premium penthouse-level residences, reflecting growing demand for luxury owner-occupier product in Melbourne’s inner urban market.

Residents will also have access to a private rooftop garden designed as an elevated retreat above the city, &nbsp;featuring curated landscaping, veggie boxes, intimate seating areas and spaces for relaxed gatherings. Sustainability has also been integrated into the project through a 7-star energy rating and two secure bicycle facilities for every residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367529]

Smith by Valli sits in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most established retail and hospitality strips, within walking distance of venues such as Falco Bakery, Carnation Canteen and Alimentari, alongside parks and everyday services. With a Walk Score of 99, the location reinforces the project’s positioning toward buyers prioritising walkability and access over car dependency.

With only a limited number of residences, Smith reflects growing demand for smaller, highly curated apartment developments that prioritise design quality, liveability, and connection to neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140747]

Smith by Valli delivers design-led apartments to Melbourne’s inner north

Propertynews

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The Onthehouse property website, which will include the Residex data base founded by John Edwards, has been bought by CoreLogic RP Data.
OTH's consumer online division (Onthehouse.com.au, Residex and REAN, the Real Estate Ad Network) fetched $3 million.
The stockmarket listed Onthehouse Group’s strategy is now solely focused on its real estate software division.
"The board believes the business is now funded to grow Console’s real estate software products market share and leverage new revenue opportunities through integrating or building other services to real estate agents and their clients."
Earlier this year it was signalled the property website was set to be shut down after its board ended negotiations with realestateVIEW just before contracts were due to be signed on the national price data base. 
"In the absence of a sale agreement for the Onthehouse.com.au and media businesses, they will be closed by April 2016 at an estimated closure cost of circa $1.7 million," the ontheouse company said in a statement to the ASX earlier this year. 
No white knight emerged until today.
Residex was initially intended to be retained in the envisaged remaining restructure, having been forecast to deliver revenues of more than $2 million in FY16 and to operate at a break even position going forward.
It was 2012 when Onthehouse acquired the last tranche to own 100% of property data business Residex.
Onthehouse acquired a half-share in May 2011.
The second 50% of Residex cost onthehouse $3.5 million.
Residex was founded by John Edwards in 1990 to to develop house price indices for the NSW state government and has since added expanded historical residential data, suburb reports and valuation reports to its national mix of products and services.
Residex hold more than 350 million records provided to the property industry and the public dating back to 1865.
Following the sale of COD division announced today, the onthehouse company’s cash position has materially improved through the lower COD exit costs.
The estimated but now avoided cost announced in February to close the business was $1.7 million.
The estimated cost to the company to exit COD has now been revised to $1.5 million which includes professional fees on the sale of COD.
The company’s cash position is $3.2 million better off than previously expected under a COD shutdown scenario.
The group chief Chris Meehan advised discussions with the Macquarie Group hostile takeover consortium are continuing.
"Onthehouse will continue to keep the market informed in accordance with its continuous disclosure obligations," said Chris Meehan.
The takeover consortium included CoreLogic RP Data.
 
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Onthehouse property website sold to CoreLogic RP Data

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Reviews on negative gearing, CGT discounts, Self-managed super funds investing in residential property, foreign investment, and immigration levels are key opportunities for reform to improve home ownership in Australia, according to the Affordable Housing Party of Australia (AFHPA).
Phasing out tax advantages over a period of possibly 10 years is the mechanism suggested by AFHPA in their submission to the inquiry into Home Ownership. 
"Firstly, it is likely to encourage investors, especially long term investors, to release properties back onto the market to avoid increased capital gains tax. Hence we should see an increasing proportion of owner-occupiers within 3-5 years. 
"Secondly, as residential investment slowly becomes less tax effective there should be decline in investor interest and reducing prices over time.
"Hence the AFHPA would propose a gradual reduction on the favourable tax treatments to residential property investments.  
The AFHPA would also suggest that action be taken in the following areas:
"CGT discounts on residential property. In the first year after a change property investors would pay tax on 55% of capital gains made on property, the next year it might be, say 60% increasing each year until CGT is paid on 100% of the capital gain. 
"Increase CGT on Self-managed super funds (SMSF) investing in residential property.
"Similar arrangements would be made with SMSF however as the Federal Government has committed to a review of Superannuation the AFHPA will wait until this review is released before commenting on what the actual rate of taxation should be. 
"In the first year after a change in negative gearing investors would be allowed to claim 100% of losses on residential property against their pay as you earn tax obligations, in the second year it might be, say 90% etc."
End foreign investment in the residential property market by tightening rules pertaining to foreign investment in residential property to their pre 2008 level. 
"Because of its undoubted effect on house prices, there is an urgent need to review the current level of migration to Australia. The AHPA would encouragement the widest possible public debate before a final level of immigration was set.  
"However the AHPA position is that the current levels are unsustainable."
Demand and Supply Drivers in the Housing Market 
On the demand side, the AFHPA cites the generous tax treatment of investors in residential housing as a driver of demand and hence rising pricing in the residential property market.  
"AFHPA cites the reduction in CGT as the main driver in investor demand in the last decade. This can be seen in the increasing percentage of investor in the residential housing market since changes were made in CGT by the Howard Government in 1999. 
"Reduced CGT for residential property favours wealthier Australians. Wealthier Australians make more of their income through capital gains than poorer Australians; poorer Australians make their income through wages. 
"Reduced CGT favours Australians with excess funds that can be invested in the property market. In a similar vein the generous treatment of funds in an S.M.S.F. advantages investors over owner-occupiers. 
"However, the AFHPA also submits that negative gearing on residential property is also very ineffective. The bulk of investors using negative gearing have purchased existing properties, hence there can be no argument that negative gearing adds to the supply of housing. 
"The fact that SMSFs are allowed to included residential property further increases demand again without increasing supply. 
"Migration is not often mentioned in regard to housing affordability. The current level of immigration is one of the highest in the OECD and this increases demand in a limited market and hence puts upwards pressure on housing prices. 
"Australia now has a business migration program where applicants for immigration are selected on their financial status. The basic idea being these applicants will have funds to invest in Australia. 
"To date the AFHPA knows of no economic study as to where these funds are being invested. If the funds brought to Australia are being invested in the residential property market, then this doubly affects housing affordability. 
"Finally, investment in existing residential property does little to improve the economic position of Australia. 
"Effectively what is happening is Australia is repricing its existing assets, no real wealth is being created. Wealth is simply being transferred from one generation to the other. 
"The funds invested in property could be better applied to other areas. Although State Governments improve their budgets positions through increased stamp duty and lending organisations make greater profits as housing prices rise, but this is not wealth creation." 
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Wind back on favourable tax for residential property investors: AFHPA

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The Australian Government should formulate a national housing strategy that sets clear directions for Australia’s housing sector, according to not-for-profit group National Seniors Australia.
In the submission to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Economics, National Seniors also recommended the examination of all types of housing and issues associated with access, adequacy, affordability and security by utilising findings from the Inquiry on Homeownership, the Inquiry on Affordable Housing, the Federation Review and the Tax Review. 
"Outright homeownership has been falling for people aged 55 and over (39.7% in 2001 to 32.1% in 2011)meaning that a greater number of older Australians are either paying off mortgages during retirement or moving from homeowner-occupier into alternative forms of accommodation.
"Other reasons for a fall in homeownership amongst older Australians include loss of paid employment and significant life events such as divorce or losing a partner. 
"Research suggests that insecurity within the private rental market amongst older Australians has led to a shift to public housing.The Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI) has found that older public housing households are expected to increase from 87,940 in 2001 to 109,560 in 2016, an increase of 24 per cent.
"In the 85+ age group these are expected to increase by 155 per cent. 
"Furthermore, by 2026 the number of lower-income people aged 65 and over who are living in rental households (as homeownership falls) are projected to far exceed the supply capacity of the social housing system. 
"Census data from 2006 to 2011 shows a steady increase in the number of renters aged 55 and over in the private market."
National Seniors Australia recommends that the Australian Government, in collaboration with state and territory governments, examine tenancy regulations, rights and advice services.
The aim would be to deliver security and support for long-term renters; recognise that renting in the private market is a significant form of tenure for many Australians; and increase the attractiveness of this form of tenure for Australia’s long term housing needs. 
"Older renters experience significant anxiety linked to their security of rental tenure and many experience housing stress.Such housing stress is magnified due to rent increasing well above CPI and the insufficiency of Commonwealth Rent Assistance. 
"Renters face a number of disadvantages including forced moves which greatly contribute to instability. The frequency of moving between owners and renters in Australia is the highest in the OECD.
"The lack of long term (beyond 6-12 months) leases available to Australian renters increases instability.  
"Limiting the ability of property investors to terminate leases for ‘any reason with notice’ to a list of prescribed criteria, allowing pet ownership and minor alterations to the rental property would greatly enhance the lifestyle available to renters.  
"Improving the stability and security of tenure for a renter would provide them with the ability to receive similar non-financial benefits available to home owners.
"Creating greater equity in the Australian housing market would reduce the desire to become a homeowner, subsequently reducing the demand which is currently driving high housing prices in the market. 
"National Seniors recommends that the government investigate policies that will address barriers to downsizing (or 'rightsizing') for older Australians, for example, a national ‘rightsizing’ program. 
"Older Australians face barriers to relocating including: the inability to find value for money, stamp duty, moving costs, lack of suitable housing in familiar surroundings with easy access to required amenities, and impacts of selling the home on Age Pension eligibility. 
"These barriers also decrease capacity for older Australians to access equity in their home to assist with living costs during retirement. 
"Proceeds from the sale of the family home continue to remain exempt from the Age Pension assets test for up to 12 months, as long as the funds are intended to buy another home. 
"However, any interest earned on sale proceeds is counted under the income test, and, if a cheaper home is purchased, any surplus cash is included in the Age Pension asset test. 
"Concerns regarding the proceeds of the sale of the home being subject to the Age Pension assets test discourage 20 per cent of all seniors, and 30 per cent of Age Pensioners from selling the home.
"In 2013 the then Labor government announced the Supporting Senior Australians—housing help for seniors pilot,to address some of the barriers to downsizing that older Australians face. 
"The pilot exempted a portion of sale proceeds from the Age Pension asset test. However, it also applied restrictive conditions, including the requirement that a homeowner had to own their home for more than 25 years and quarantining the proceeds for ten years. 
"As an alternative National Seniors has called for the implementation of a ‘Rightsizing’ program that exempts up to $150,000 in proceeds from the sale of the home from the Age Pension income or asset test. 
"Excess sale funds could then go towards critical services, such as health costs, significantly reducing the burden on government-supported health systems. 
"The recent changes to the Age Pension asset test (legislated in June 2015) will provide an even greater deterrent for seniors to right-size. Reconsideration should be given to a program that allows seniors to right-size without the threat of future reductions to their Age Pension payments." 
National Seniors recommends that the states and territories provide concessional stamp duty to older Australians to encourage downsizing and maintenance of homeowner-occupier tenure. 
"A reduction in stamp duty would encourage older people to right-size their homes and improve quality of life, while also providing many younger Australians access to suitable family homes which would not otherwise be available."
 
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New apartments

New townhouses

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