Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Pyrmont

Prominent Sydney and Melbourne proprety developer Landream are well and truly ready to take advantage of the $750 million of the Sydney Fish Markets at Blackwattle Bay.

They're pushing on with their $330 million Wattle Street project, across the road from Wentworth Park and a stone's throw away from the popular Fish Markets, which following the redevelopment which will create a major food and dining precinct for the area.

Landream secured the 12,381 sqm site at 14-26 Wattle Street in 2021 from the Sydney City Council, pending approval of a Stage 1 Concept DA, which was approved in May 2021.

<img alt="Landream Pyrmont" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd00297-19d8-4040-91bd-ed15efcc34b9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-28%20at%202.24.13%20pm.png?VersionId=..UJ3giwAYTVZfhUtYRSxhsz.HobgN_C" />

The Sydney City Council acquired the site in 1906 as a road works depot. Facilities to support the depot were constructed on site between 1912- 1921. They're the only buildings that stand on the large site which straddles Wattle, Fig and Jones Streets.&nbsp;The site was previously used as a sandstone quarry, formally known as Hell Hole Quarry.

Prior to the submission of the recent development application, the Sydney-based architecture&nbsp;firm BVN won the project's&nbsp;Architectural Design Competition, beating design submissions from&nbsp;likes of&nbsp;Carter Williamson, Tzannes, SJB and Bates Smart in the Architectural Design Competition.

The jury said BVN's scheme was "considered, engaging, pragmatic and rooted in concept, materiality, and place making."

<img alt="Landream Pyrmont" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1bd3f65b-4941-4c38-8778-6ac9c33349e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-28%20at%202.26.45%20pm.png?VersionId=wn8DWQNpu20tSZ9IezS81YU0JeeKG7yS" />

"The design is underpinned by the current and future site context and character, seeking to contribute to and unlock the natural advantages of the environment and the approved concept scheme," the jury continued.

"The jury appreciated the design development of the approved concept scheme, benefiting the public realm and enhancing the residential amenity. The modified massing allows the development to be read as a ‘family of buildings’, rather than as a single complex.

"Each building is unique in design approach and they work together to establish a cohesive and comfortable environment within the site."

The jury also noted the clever design of the ‘Garaban’, the central residential building, one of five buildings proposed, which will deliver high amenity residential living.

"It is appreciated that this structure presents 100 per cent north facing apartments and 100 per cent cross ventilated apartments to deliver positive sustainability goals."

<img alt="Wattle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="381da9ce-aad8-4cab-9d5b-661eef5403f5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-28%20at%202.26.07%20pm.png?VersionId=TxNl0LJ_zHURbO9rf_RHRkMqphrGIGZs" />

Four of the five buildings will home 237 apartments. There will be 50 one-bed units (21 per cent), 101 two-beds (42 per cent), and 82 three-bedroom apartments (35 per cent), as well as a handful of studios and large four-bed apartments.

The fifth building will solely home commercial and office space, while one of the residential buildings will also feature a recreation centre with two multi-purpose indoor courts, and a childcare centre.

BVN's Design Statement, part of the extensive submission to the City of Sydney Council, said&nbsp;14-26 Wattle Street is located in the Innovation Corridor of the Sydney Harbour CBD, a unique precinct in the city that is undergoing rapid transformation.

"Previously an underutilised area of the city, it is developing into a prime mixed-use precinct to help strengthen the Harbour.

"Capitalising on its easy access to Pyrmont, Blackwattle Bay, the Fishmarket, Darling Harbour and the central CBD Precinct, it is set to become a sought-after destination with a strong focus in connecting Pyrmont to the Sydney CBD.&nbsp;The work/live industrial history of Pyrmont and Ultimo is still evident in the urban fabric."

<img alt="Landream Pyrmont" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4bbd7983-3fd0-4cd7-b519-a7013785916d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-28%20at%202.27.00%20pm.png?VersionId=jQ3TKnthbLutaPKPAMk67M2UoLe1NgEd" />

The report, signed off by BVN Principal Phillip Rossington, noted a number of sustainability initiatives in the project.

There will be rainwater storage, landscaping on the open rooftop with climate and location suitable plant selection, natural light and ventilation to the majority of apartments, as well as efficient services throughout the building like extensive bicycle parking, energy efficient light, and composting facilities.&nbsp;

BVN said the key to the proposed development was understanding the extremely different contexts on the three addresses (Jones, Fig and Wattle), and providing appropriate responses to each.

"This approach allows the development to be read as a family of buildings rather than one large complex," BVN said.

<img alt="Landream Pyrmont" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="983a790d-d847-4760-9ec5-9027b8d69599" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-02-28%20at%202.25.48%20pm.png?VersionId=7moQOTibeYcHQFTN0CiaduJtMt4x04Pv" />

"The Jones building is set back and articulated to complement the existing Jones Street Terraces. The Wattle Street aesthetic draws on neighbouring buildings’ arches and strong lines. The Courtyard building is a smaller more boutique building with a focus on it’s true north facing aspect and enhanced sustainability features, and the Fig Street commercial building reflects the rhythm of the Winchcombe Carson building."

The Winchcombe Carson building, bordering the site on Fig and Wattle Street, is a landmark building and former woolstore, which opened in 1894.

<h2>Fig &amp; Wattle Fast Facts</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Address: 14-26 Wattle Street</li>
	<li>Site size: 12,381 sqm</li>
	<li>Adaptable apartments - 36 units</li>
	<li>Liveable Housing Units - 48 units</li>
	<li>Internal Communal Residential Space - 228 sqm</li>
	<li>External Private Communal Open Space - 2,795 sqm</li>
	<li>External Public Accessible Open Space - 2,457 sqm</li>
	<li>Apartments - 237</li>
	<li>Studio&nbsp;- 2 (1%)</li>
	<li>1 bed - 50 (21%)</li>
	<li>2 bed - 101 (42%)</li>
	<li>3 bed - 82 (35%)</li>
	<li>4 bed - 2 (1%)</li>
	<li>Residential GFA - 27,434 sqm</li>
	<li>Commercial GFA&nbsp;- 16,215 sqm</li>
	<li>Retail GFA&nbsp;- 428 sqm</li>
	<li>Childcare Centre GFA - 1810 sqm</li>
	<li>Recreation Centre GFA - 2684 sqm</li>
</ul>

Landream secured the 12,381 sqm site at 14-26 Wattle Street in 2021 from the Sydney City Council, pending approval of a Stage 1 Concept DA, which was approved in May 2021

First look exclusive: Landream's $330 million mixed-use Pyrmont plans revealed

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The Pyrmont apartment record has been reset with the sale of the penthouse in the award-winning Sydney Wharf, listed for the first time since its construction.
The Pirrama Road penthouse was bought off the plan for $6,986,000 in 2008, a year before the PTW Architects-designed, Charter Hall-developed and Brookfield Multiplex-built development was completed.
McGrath Pyrmont agent Robert Alfeldi had expectations of a sale around $20 million given its view of the western side of the city, across Darling Harbour towards the Barangaroo precinct.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/12/Pyrmont%203.jpg" alt="">
The three bedroom apartment has 350 sqm of internal space, and a further 80 sqm of terraces. There's also a rooftop terrace with a plunge pool and garaging for three cars.
There's a mezzanine-level home office overlooking the living space.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/12/Pyrmont%202.jpg" alt="">
The priciest apartment sale in Pyrmont comes from Sydney Wharf, when the former Ferrari boss Herbert Appleroth sold his spread for $13.3 million. 
He amalgamated two apartments after paying $6.9 million for both back in 2008.
Sydney Wharf held the record before that, set when Dr Ian Campbell sold his double apartment for $12 million in 2015.
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Pyrmont record smashed as penthouse asking $20 million sells

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EXPERT OBSERVER 
Urban Taskforce has welcomed the announcement by the NSW Minister for Planning, Hon Rob Stokes, of plans to progress the renewal and redevelopment of the Pyrmont Peninsula.
This is a welcome move forward after a poison combination of politics and bureaucratic in-fighting stymied development of this critical location last year with the IPC determining that the Star Casio / Ritz Carlton Hotel development was not supported by Strategic plans for the precinct late last year.
It is fantastic to see that the NSW Government has acknowledged the critical role that Pyrmont plays in the future of Sydney as a global city.
The release of ‘Directions for the Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy’ by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment is a good start as it promotes the renewal and redevelopment of Pyrmont and its surrounds. 
The new “strategy” establishes the strategic framework for high rise development in Pyrmont and the logical extension of the CBD along the Pyrmont peninsular.
This change has come about following a comprehensive review of the Independent Planning Commission, the public intervention by the Treasurer and a review of the precinct by the GSC. 
The Department of Planning’s submission on the Star proposal as sent to the Independent Planning Commission last year was anti-jobs and anti-growth. This is exactly the opposite to what is needed given the recession we now face.
Urban Taskforce is pleased to see that the Minister for Planning has taken hold of this matter and established a plan for the development of this important precinct.
A change of mind-set is needed across the planning system.
All those involved in the planning system need to stop and re-set. We must continue to deliver improved amenity for residents, improved environmental outcomes and improved architectural built form. But the interests of local NIMBY groups must now to be considered against the greater need for economic growth, increased housing supply, jobs and employment. 
Now is the time to shift the focus away from Strategic Planning and for Minister Stokes to use the powers he has a the Minister for Planning to drive through a COVID Recovery State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) which suspends the need to conform with Local Strategic Plans and facilitates approvals as a matter of priority. Jobs and investment are what is needed. This is in the hands of the NSW Government.
The GSC, having completed its Strategic Planning mandate, should now focus all its efforts on supporting the Department in calling in projects and fast-tracking them for approvals.
With all the legislative powers at his hands, Minister can make a new SEPP any time (based on a location, a precinct, power to suspend the need for concurrences or the need for lengthy exhibition processes. Minister, this is the time to use those powers. 
While most Councils are flat-out setting up working from home arrangements and managing public health, rubbish collection and general order, this is the time for the NSW Government to step in and drive our economy forward so we are ready to go as soon as the current health crisis abates.
Tom Forrest is the CEO of Urban Taskforce. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Urban Taskforce welcomes release of Pyrmont plan: Tom Forrest 

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A new 20-year vision for Pyrmont will shape the waterfront peninsula as an innovative, connected and creative around-the-clock destination, providing much-needed jobs, investment and economic growth, part of the NSW Government’s COVID Recovery Plan.
Up to 23,000 new jobs and 800,000 sqm of new commercial and office space are forecast in a new draft plan released on July 31, 2020, supported by better transport connectivity to grow a mix of hi-tech, tourism, media and information industries.
Launching the plan, Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the NSW Government’s draft Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy and Economic Development Strategy would help map the area’s future.
The strategy considers big moves for transformation such as a potential metro station at Pyrmont as part of the Sydney Metro West project, a new indoor sports and entertainment venue like our own Madison Square Garden, more and better public spaces (including the return of Wentworth Park as local parkland) and the revitalisation of key sites to attract commercial investment.
Mr Stokes added that Pyrmont has always been an extension of the CBD as a bustling hub for a variety of industries, and the draft strategy outlines the latest incarnation in the peninsula’s renewal.
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Mr Stokes said the revitalisation will focus on key sites for renewal, including the existing Sydney Fish Market site at Blackwattle Bay, The Star site at Darling Island, development of Harbourside Shopping Centre, and the UTS Haymarket campus.
“These sites have been identified for revitalisation over the next 20 years and we are keen to ensure that parks, public spaces and the unique character of Pyrmont is protected,” he said.
The Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy and Economic Development Strategy are on public exhibition for community feedback until September 13, 2020.
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Pyrmont's 20-year vision released for NSW Government's COVID Recovery Plan

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
The Independent Planning Commission’s rejection of the Ritz Carlton hotel development in Pyrmont represents a comprehensive failure to deliver planning decisions which serve the broad public interest of the people of NSW.
“After the State Government actively encouraged this development for over four years, the IPC decision to reject this hotel development is a blow to tourism, a blow to jobs and a blow to the sensible development of our city”, Mr Forrest said.
“The IPC rejected submissions that this proposal was a logical extension of Darling Harbour down the peninsular. The IPC has clearly not read any of the GSC’s planning documents. The ICC precinct is suffering from the sparsity of hotel availability and this proposal was part of the solution.
The IPC decision rejects the proposal because (in part), it says, it is not consistent with the Strategic Planning in the area.
“This is simply wrong. The GSC’s district Plan for Eastern Sydney published in its final form in March 2018 sets the strategic framework. It states on page 46:
‘The District’s many great places also include local neighbourhoods in leafy suburbs like Bellevue Hill and Strathfield, inner-city, mixed-use places around Potts Point and Surry Hills, and the city high-rise areas of Pyrmont and the Sydney CBD. Each offers its own identity and sense of place where social cohesion and belonging is fostered.’
“The District Plan establishes the Strategic merit for high rise development in this location. The IPC seems to be rejecting the Greater Sydney Commission’s vision for an extension of the city’s CBD into Pyrmont. This calls into question the very future of the IPC.
“Hundreds of millions of dollars of development investment and tourism revenue will be lost to the city of Sydney as a result of this decision. Worse, the future of our city is being held to ransom, and the IPC has simply given up and folded to a handful of local activists.
“The decision represents a complete lack of balance. The decision over emphasises local community concerns. Those concerns were driven by selfish NIMBY activists. The failure of the IPC to reject these concerns and to find a pathway forward after years of State Government encouragement for the development of this project is a disgrace.
“The Planning Department’s Report was also very disappointing, and this must be fed into to the Productivity Commission’s review of both the role of the IPC as well as their review into Planning in NSW.
“Confidence in the NSW economy is slipping, and the planning system is the bottleneck. This decision must be a catalyst for serious review and change.
“By putting the interests of NIMBYs before the financial future of our State the IPC has behaved like Hunters Hill Council. The IPC has failed the test of leadership as has let the community of Sydney down. The decision and its reasoning are simply not worthy of the leading non-judicial planning authority in the State”, Mr Forrest said.
TOM FORREST is the Chief Executive Officer of Urban Taskforce Australia
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IPC rejection of the Ritz Carlton hotel for Pyrmont sells Sydney short: Tom Forrest

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The pioneering radio presenter Janadele Stewart has sold her Pyrmont penthouse, after years of being on and off the market.
The property was recently placed on the market via a soiree involving champagne and canapes with an asking price of $5.3 million to $5.5 million.
Situated at 731/8 Point Street, the apartment featuring three bedrooms and two bathrooms last traded for $2,485,000 in 2003, one year after it was built.
Ayre Estate Agents Adrian Wilson, Craig Donohue and Kirsty Gardner were the successful marketers of the Mirvac-developed penthouse in the Promontory.
Featuring two separate living areas and a large entertainers’ terrace, it holds views to the Sydney Harbour.
Set on 363 square metres, the abode transacted at auction for $5.57 million, a building-record by $770,000.
Four bidders competed for the home.
It is also the current highest registered sale price for the 2009 postcode in 2019.
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Janadele Stewart finally sells Pyrmont Penthouse after 6.5 years

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The NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian today announced the Greater Sydney Commission had been directed to immediately review Pyrmont’s planning rules to ensure they are consistent with the Government’s vision for its future.
“I am sending a strong message that Pyrmont is open for business and ready to be taken to the next level,” Ms Berejiklian said.
It comes after the recent rejection of the proposed Ritz Carlton tower (above, picture source FJMT).
The NSW Government seeks a strategic vision for Pyrmont and the Western Harbour precinct as a vibrant residential, entertainment and innovation hub on the fringe of Sydney’s CBD.
“Sydney is Australia’s only true global city and we have a unique opportunity before us to transform Pyrmont and the Western Harbour precint into an iconic destination," the premier said.
“With a growing population, we know there will be more development in Pyrmont in the future. With that will come opportunities to build more transport links including a potential Metro station.
“While individual applications will continue to be determined on their merits, this review sends a clear signal that our government believes the Pyrmont area has a bright and exciting future as a key part of the NSW visitor economy.”
Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the GSC’s review would also include recommendations to the Government on how to support a greater diversity of development in the precinct.
“We need to ensure planning rules for the area are still relevant, particularly with major projects planned including the new Sydney Fishmarket, the Ultimo Creative Arts Precinct and Bays Precinct,” Mr Stokes said.
“We must ensure that our planning system is clear and effective in supporting the type and scale of development needed in a top quality, vibrant, mixed-use precinct.
“We must also ensure that any major plans to transform the area are supported with the right infrastructure to create a vibrant destination for locals, visitors and businesses alike.”
The Greater Sydney Commission commenced its review last week, with their report due to be completed by the end of next month.
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Ritz Carlton Pyrmont rejection triggers State Government planning review

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The Star Sydney complex has unveiled the design for its Grand Foyer, part of the group’s $65 million update to its Pyrmont entrance.
The group bills the Grand Foyer as “the world’s first permanent indoor light and interactive digital art foyer in an integrated resort”.
The $22 million installation is “part light, part water and part digital art gallery”.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/7/The%20Grand%20Foyer%20The%20Star%20Sydney%20-%208.jpg" alt="">
Other inclusions to the property in the transformation project include a brand-new bar, luxury retailers and a new arrival experience.
The Star Sydney Chief Operating Officer, Dino Mezzatesta, said the work was part of the group’s plans to impress guests.
“Architecture, contemporary art and technology have converged to form an iconic showpiece that delivers a unique, unexpected and dynamic arrival experience for our guests,” said Mezzatesta.
“The new Grand Foyer includes a 25-metre-long, 8K resolution crescent shaped screen which will showcase the works of emerging and established Australian artists, university students, cinematographers and animators. 
“The screen content reacts dynamically to the real-world environment and human movement, encouraging guest interaction.               
“Inspiration behind the artworks was drawn from The Star’s proximity to the busy Sydney Harbour shoreline – and the constant ebb and flow of human activity within the Pyrmont area. 
“Alongside the digital canvas, is the first sculptural water installation of its design in the Southern Hemisphere – the ‘Aquatique’ artwork of falling water.
“The integration of Aquatique, LED screens, lasers, lighting and live performances is a world first for an entertainment precinct.” 
The work is being done in collaboration with lighting specialists Ramus Illumination, who was responsible for the permanent outdoor projection system at The Star Gold Coast.
Headed by Bruce Ramus, the firm has also created designs for artists including U2 and David Bowie, as well as events such as The Academy Awards, The Grammys and the Super Bowl Halftime Shows. 
“With The Star Sydney Grand Foyer arrival experience, we wanted to design an experience full of compelling encounters that enrich the journey. We envisioned a beautiful, unifying space that embraces and welcomes all people, and we believe we’ve achieved this,” said Ramus.
“We’ve turned light into an expressive platform in the form of the digital canvas. Through this, light animates to tell the story of the local environment, it is the light, movement and artistic expression of the community that shares the wider story of The Star and Sydney.”
The Grand Foyer work has been timed with the rebrand of Astral Towers and Residences to The Star Grand Hotel and Residences, following a $100 million investment to its hotel rooms and suites.
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Star Sydney unveils $22 million Grand Foyer interactive light installation design

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An A-grade Pyrmont office building has sold for $143 million to AEW.
JLL and Colliers International managed the deal for 19 Harris Street on behalf of a private client of UBS Asset Management, AEW who purchased the property on behalf of its Value Investors Asia fund series.
An international expressions of interest campaign was launched in July 2018 for the seven story building, which garnered interest from local and offshore investors.
“Properties such as 19 Harris will benefit from significant rental growth in this sub-market as leases reach their expiry,”  JLL's James Aroney said.
“The high calibre of tenants, the quality of the asset and the vibrant city fringe location made it an attractive investment opportunity.”
 The building is set to benefit from the redevelopment of the Bays Market District, less than 1km away in Blackwattle Bay, which will add to the area’s retail and social amenity.
Thomson Reuters is the anchor tenant of 19 Harris Street, and L’Oreal Australia is also among the 12 occupants of the fully leased asset.
The building has a net lettable area of 12,568 sqm and campus-style flexible floor plates of around 2000 sqm.
 The deal represents a sale rate per square metre of $11,378 and a passing yield of 4.87 per cent. The weighted average lease expiry (WALE) is five years.
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Pyrmont Office building sold for $143 million

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EXPERT OBSERVER
With the Sydney CBD filling up fast with new development the Urban Taskforce believes that a long term plan is needed to continue Sydney as the leading global city in Australia by developing the Pyrmont Peninsula.
There are a number of early pointers to the rethinking of Pyrmont as a high rise spine to match Sydney’s CBD.
The regeneration of Darling Harbour with its high rise hotel has begun the change.
The proposed 61 storey tower for the Star Casino begins a rethink of heights on the peninsula along with the proposed tower at Harbourside.
The announcement of the design for the new fish markets in Blackwattle Bay means the existing site will be redeveloped presumably with high rise apartments and the move of the Power House Museum to Parramatta could open up new development on that site.
The Urban Taskforce asked Sydney architectural firm LAVA to develop a vision for how the Pyrmont Peninsula could look over the next 20 to 40 years as Sydney continues to grow (pictured in title).
The new development would establish a mixed-use precinct with an entertainment flavour.
We see the peninsula next to the Sydney CBD as being a genuine mixed use precinct with entertainment and hospitality uses as well as being a focus for IT and creative industries.
The peninsula would support the long term proposals for the Bays Precinct.
Clearly public transport will be essential for the new uses so we support the location of a station on the Metro West line as it connects to Parramatta via the Bays Precinct and Sydney Olympic Park.
The metro station should be located so that it serves the Star Casino and the new Fish Markets development.
There is also an opportunity for more ferry connections that are turn-up-and-go between the CBD and the Pyrmont peninsula.
The vision developed for Pyrmont is the work of the internationally renowned architects LAVA who were the European Architects of the Year in 2017.
Sydney director Chris Bosse and his team have developed the long term vision to generate discussion about how Sydney may look as the city reaches 8 million people over the next 40 years.
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