North Sydney's landmark 'SBS Building' on Alfred Street is set to be demolished to make way for a new mixed-use residential tower in the booming North Sydney.

Commercial property group FiveX is behind the plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">39-storey tower</a>, the latest project to advance under the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

They are proposing 184 apartments above retail spaces, which will replace the existing 20-storey commercial building. FiveX was set up more than five decades ago by Joshua and Marko Berger. It is currently led by Joshua's son Lesli.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower at 275 Alfred Street, North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2efa0980-53fa-4cca-9f9e-9c3c845d4746" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29%20%281%29_0.png?VersionId=y_YyPMq3NQLfYRs84pP4os9UgWiMLp75" />

According to the Architectural Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fjc-studio">FJC Studio</a>, the slender tower form has been deliberately designed to respect the site's transitional setting at the southern gateway to the North Sydney CBD, where high-rise towers give way to lower-scale residential precincts.

"The slender tower form and articulated podium establish a respectful relationship with nearby heritage and low rise buildings, including the Whaling Road Heritage Conservation Area,” the architecture firm noted, adding that the tower “completes a missing link in the urban fabric” while enhancing the Alfred Street streetscape.

The proposed building will include a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, with 15 percent of the gross residential floor area allocated as affordable housing. There is an agreement already in place that those apartments will be managed by Evolve Housing.

The project aligns with broader state housing objectives, including the National Housing Accord target of delivering 1.2 million new homes by 2029. The Scoping Report filed with the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) suggests the site "presents no impediments to rapid delivery,” with construction able to commence within 12 months of receiving consent.

North Sydney has been one of the most popular suburbs in Sydney for new and off the plan apartment development, but hasn't had the supply to keep up with demand, until recently.

AURA by Aqualand was, for a long time, the only off the plan apartment building on the market. That completed last year, and has sold the majority of its 386 luxury apartments. Recently ALAND launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-173-179-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> on the same street, selling over $100 million within just a few hours of its launch, while developer CASA also launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-mclaren-north-sydney-45-mclaren-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The McLaren</a>&nbsp;in the same precinct.

Joel Robinson

First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower in booming North Sydney

Kokoda Property Group has announced the Sydney-based Versatile Construction as the builder for its landmark $1.5 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a> precinct.

Construction of the 17,612 sqm site is scheduled to commence in December 2025 and is expected to be delivered in stages from 2028. Once complete, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a> will comprise 212 residences across four architecturally distinct buildings, alongside Brisbane’s first Kimpton Hotel, extensive retail, hospitality, and wellness amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139896 project_image_fid=295098]

Kokoda Property Group Founder and Managing Director, Mark Stevens, said appointing Versatile Construction marks a significant milestone for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a>.

“Partnering with Versatile Construction gives us confidence in delivering a precinct that sets a new benchmark for luxury living, curated experiences and vibrant riverfront activation," Stevens said.

"Together, we will bring the vision for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a> to life, creating a destination that residents and visitors will enjoy for generations."

Throughout the construction phase, more than 2,000 jobs will be created, supporting hundreds of local contractors and suppliers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139896 project_image_fid=352274]

Marco Fahd, Chairman &amp; CEO at Versatile Group, said the company is looking forward to&nbsp;expanding their footprint in the state, taking on their inaugural project in Brisbane.

"We are proud of the unwavering commitment our team of experts have to quality and certainty in delivery and are excited to work with Kokoda to bring their vision for this unique project to life," Fahd says.

Sales reached $285 million on the launch of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a>, with sales momentum continuing to "exceed all expectations."

Stevens says the overwhelming response from buyers validated the group’s vision for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a>.

“The demand for a luxury product in this enclave has been extraordinary, we’ve never seen anything like it before. It reinforces everything we’re doing around quality, design, and creating genuine lifestyle precincts. Buyers are recognising the enduring value of Brisbane’s riverfront and are responding to the opportunity to live within a world-class destination that celebrates both place and lifestyle.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139896]

Kokoda appoints builder for $1.5 billion Teneriffe Banks waterfront precinct

Castle Hill’s booming development market is set for another boost, with builder-developer Buildex proposing a new mid-rise apartment building near Castle Towers.

Buildex has submitted plans to The Hills Shire Council for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/197-old-northern-road-castle-hill-nsw-2154">nine-storey building comprising 57 apartments</a> on Old Northern Road. The company acquired two adjoining sites earlier this year, totalling more than 2,683 sqm.

Texco Design has prepared the scheme, which includes five one-bed plus study apartments, 37 two-bedrooms, and 15 three-bedrooms.

Castle Hill has become a hotspot for developers in recent years, undergoing significant transformation driven by the opening of the Hills Showground Precinct to development and the introduction of two metro stations servicing the suburb.

Developers including Deicorp and Kassis Homes have already completed projects, and are progressing future developments, while Meriton, Arada, and Ellipse are currently delivering new projects in the rapidly evolving area.

Staff Writer

First look: Buildex plans 57 apartments near Castle Towers

Gold Coast developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/immerse-projects">Immerse Projects</a>&nbsp;has unveiled what it intends to deliver at its recently acquired Toowong site, its debut apartment development in Brisbane.

Immerse, founded by John Kearney who is also the founder of regarded construction company Greyburn, secured the prime Sylvan Road site <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-immerse-projects-moves-into-brisbane-apartment-market-with-toowong-site-acquisition">earlier this year</a>, in an area which has historical significance to Kearney who&nbsp;studied at the nearby University of Queensland.

"It feels like a full circle moment," Kearney told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/" target="">Apartments.com.au</a>.&nbsp;

“I spent many nights at the Regatta Hotel just down the road, as have most people in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brisbane-qld" target="">Brisbane</a>. It’s one of the city’s most well-known hotels, and with several cafes, restaurants, and a CityCat stop nearby, it’s become an even more attractive place to live.”

He is planning a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/22-24-sylvan-road-toowong-qld-4066">15-storey project with 88 apartments</a> above an activated ground plane with a shop and hospitality spaces.

<img alt="Toowong podium" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c350436b-9d64-46cc-ab6f-defc009e1b65" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium_0.png?VersionId=zt7A0_14M62TkZ61YHnGmEck9KM9HqDA" />

The architecture, led by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, presents a tower massing that responds to the area's evolving mid-rise context. The scheme incorporates podium and rooftop communal spaces, while the commercial elements aim to activate the Sylvan Road frontage and enhance the site's interface with the adjacent parkland.&nbsp;

Landscaping plans by Ivy May Landscape Architects include subtropical planting and deep soil zones to support stormwater management and visual integration.

Supporting documentation from Mewing Planning Consultants notes that "the proposed development will deliver a mixed-use outcome that enhances the vibrancy of the Sylvan Road corridor" and highlights its proximity to high-frequency public transport and community facilities.

<img alt="First look: Immerse Projects moves into Brisbane apartment market with Toowong site acquisition" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/22-24%20Sylvan%20%20Rd%20Toowong_Markups.jpg?VersionId=u4_IGzpYLPFfAZSsgCZynov3bm7umwJ." />

&nbsp;

There's been little new apartment development in Toowong in recent years. The most notable is Consolidated Properties two-tower Monarch Residences, which is approaching completion with nearly all of its 224 residences sold.

Kearney describes&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066" target="">Toowong</a>&nbsp;as a suburb with real depth.

"The suburb attracts everyone, from students to retirees, and that's what makes it interesting."

First look: Immerse Projects reveals debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hyecorp-property-group">Hyecorp</a> is down to its final three-bedroom apartments at Audrey, the developer’s parkside St Leonards South project, pairing the remaining homes with a limited-time offer.

The developer is extending a five per cent deposit and a $50,000 settlement rebate on selected apartments, aiming to help owner-occupiers secure one of the final homes ahead of move-in in early 2026.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=311393]

Located on Canb​erra Avenue opposite Newlands Park, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/audrey-st-leonards-13-19-canberra-avenue-st-leonards-nsw-2065">Audrey</a> comprises 102 residences, including a mix of three-bedroom residences and a double-storey, five-bedroom terrace with two outdoor areas.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> and delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/north-shore-property-construction">North Shore Property Construction</a>, the project reflects Hyecorp’s focus on owner-occupier planning, with open-plan layouts, extensive storage integration, and a material palette built around stone, oak timber flooring and bespoke joinery. Many of the three-bedroom apartments capture views toward the city and Harbour Bridge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=207373]

Hyecorp’s internal design team, Jackson Teece, has emphasised a consistent level of specification across the building, including Miele appliances, integrated refrigeration, brushed metal tapware and large-format stone detailing that conceals cabinetry.

The Tiffany Collection, crowning the development on Levels 12 to 15, features added luxury of fluted standalone baths, heated bathroom floors, custom walk-in robes and upgraded appliance packages across its spacious 155 to 159 sqm homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=301367]

Beyond the private residences, Audrey carries a strong amenity focus. Residents have access to an indoor lap pool and spa, personal training studio, private cinema, music room and private dining room.

A landscaped rooftop terrace with CBD views anchors the communal offering, complemented by an onsite café and an integrated daycare centre within the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=198680]

The location continues to be a drawcard for buyers, with new retail additions at Mall 88, including Coles, alongside Woolworths and the established offerings of Forum Plaza. St Leonards Station and Crows Nest Metro is within easy reach, as are local health precincts such as the Royal North Shore Public and Private Hospitals. Nearby green spaces include Newlands Park, Gore Hill Oval and Naremburn Park, supporting strong day-to-day amenity for families and downsizers alike.

Hyecorp is expected to welcome residents to Hyecorp in early 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110379]

Audrey St Leonards nears completion – settlement bonus now available

Reiq

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The latest Real Estate Institute of Queensland vacancy data for the December 2020 quarter shows Brisbane’s inner city rental market is seeing a comeback. 

Having rocketed to almost 5% in the June Quarter, rental vacancies in the CBD have eased to 3.3%. 

“The market has yet to fully rebound,” Antonia Mercorella, CEO of the REIQ advised.

Rental vacancies around the city’s middle ring remain tight, including Hawthorne (1.4%), New Farm (1.9%), Paddington (2.1%) and St Lucia (1.7%). 

Further out into Brisbane’s outer ring and vacancies are even tighter, including Camp Hill (1.3%), Cannon Hill (1.4%), Holland Park (1.2%) and Moorooka (1.3%). 

“In the last six months we’ve witnessed some record lows across capital city suburbs; figures we’ve certainly not seen for well over a decade,” Ms. Mercorella noted.

“It’s a similar scenario as you travel around the wider regions of Brisbane including Ipswich, Logan, Morton Bay and Redlands which all have uncomfortably low stock levels around 1%.” 

Across the State’s regional areas, Cairns (1.2%), Cassowary Coast (1.1%), Isaac (1.2%), Mareeba (1.5%) and the Whitsundays (1.4%) saw vacancies rise above 1%. 

However, for the remaining regional Queensland, rental vacancies have plunged further to record an all-time median low of 0.575% including Bundaberg (0.4%), Fraser Coast (0.6%), Hervey Bay (0.9%), Mackay (0.7%), Toowoomba (0.7%) and Townsville (0.7%). 

Rockhampton recorded the lowest rental vacancies for the December 2020 quarter at 0.2%. 

“During the pandemic, the Palaszczuk Government introduced a range of measures keeping tenants in place for longer which is part of the reason we have incredibly low rental availability across Queensland,” says Ms. Mercorella. 

“We have also seen a significant amount of interstate migration, with renters also moving to Queensland, so all of these factors have contributed to our current tight vacancy rates.”

The popular destination for interstate migration, the Sunshine Coast hasn’t shifted in months, firmly gripped at 0.3%. 

Many areas such as Buddina (0.3%), Caloundra (0.3%), Maroochydore (0.5%), Noosa (0.4%) and Sunrise Beach (0.5%) have continued to tighten marginally over the last three months.

The Gold Coast isn’t far behind, with Surfers Paradise, which recorded more than 2,100 vacant rentals at the peak of the pandemic nine months ago, currently at 0.7% stock availability. 

“In fact, its rental market has rebounded beyond pre-COVID levels to reach a record low never before recorded,” she said.

The record low vacancies reported across the entire Gold Coast include Arundel (0.6%), Labrador (0.7%), Oxenford (0.1%), Runaway Bay (0.5%) and Southport (0.7%) and in the south, Broadbeach (0.8%), Currumbin (0.3%), Miami (0.2%), Palm Beach (0.3%) and Varsity Lakes (0.6%). 
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Bundaberg, Fraser Coast, Hervey Bay, Mackay, Toowoomba and Townsville have seen their rental vacancies plunge to record an all-time median low


jchancellor

Record low rental vacancies across regional and coastal Queensland

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Antonia Mercorella, the CEO of the REIQ says the Queensland Government's proposed measures in the COVID-19 are the most onerous of their kind for property owners across all the states.
With landlords and real estate professionals emailing hundreds of letters to the Premier opposing the proposed measures, the REIQ is calling on the Palaszczuk Government to amend aspects of the proposed laws set to be debated in parliament today.
The measures include a rental grant of up to $2000 per person for COVID-19 affected tenants who have exhausted all other financial options.   
The REIQ wants the legislation to have rent deferrals rather than permanent rent waiver rights for tenants.
"This aligns with the Federal Government model and framework adopted/being adopted in other jurisdictions," Antonia Mercorella said.
“We support the protection of tenants who are in financial distress due to this pandemic.
"However, the scope of these proposed measures are too broad in their application.
"In fact, they are the most onerous of their kind for property owners across all Australian jurisdictions to date.”
The REIQ is calling for a minimum income reduction threshold for tenants to meet before they qualify for the protection measures as in New South Wales, a 25% income reduction requirement applies.
It also wants a standard requirement for tenants to substantiate a rent reduction request to allow landlords to make properly informed and fair decisions about rent reductions.
It seeks to scrap the proposed break lease right that allows tenants to simply walk away from tenancy agreements with only one weeks’ notice notwithstanding that those tenants are afforded all the other protections provided under the Renter Protection Package; and to also remove the proposed automatic right to a 6-month tenancy agreement extension which in effect introduces a 12-month moratorium in Queensland with the consequential imposition of permanent rent waivers that would be extended over this additional period.
“The current protection measures clearly ignore the voices and rights of property owners.
"Property owners, like tenants, are entitled to be supported by COVID-19 regulatory protections that support the entire rental market,” says Ms. Mercorella.
"And once landlords discover the true extent of these distorted reforms, it will cause a revolt of a kind not seen before in a residential tenancy context.”
Queensland, like NSW, will both provide up to a 25 percent discount on land tax for the 2020 calendar year as part of packages worth $400 million and $440 million respectively, on the proviso savings are passed to tenants in the form of rental relief.
 
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

REIQ leads revolt against Queensland Government's COVID-19 tenancy protections

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) is seeking urgent action from the Queensland State Government to assist in maintaining the stability of the Queensland property market in the face of the economic impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Queensland’s residential real estate sector is worth over $1 trillion and employs over 50,000 Queenslanders directly with many more employed in associated industries. Activity within the real estate sector contributes in excess of $30 billion every year to the Queensland Government.
Protecting and sustaining the Queensland real estate sector is critical to safeguarding our property market and supporting our local economy. In order to do so, strong action needs to be taken.
The REIQ has proactively developed a set of recommendations and proposed initiatives that will assist in minimising the potential economic impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on the real estate sector. In order to maintain stability and optimism in the Queensland property market during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, The REIQ is urgently asking the Queensland State Government to:
a. Extend the First Home Buyers Grant to established housing: Expanding the First Home Buyers Grant beyond new construction will stimulate economic activity through the introduction of increased numbers of first home buyers to the broader property market. 
b. Implement a 50% reduction in development application costs across all Local Governments and introduce streamlined application processes: Removing barriers to development and reducing costs will assist to boost construction levels, increase competition and importantly, reduce cost for the end purchaser.
c. Deliver a 75% reduction in stamp duty for the period of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic: A short-term, but significant, reduction in stamp duty payable on property transactions will have a positive effect on confidence within the property market. This, in turn, will offset the predicted drop in real estate transactions expected during the immediate crisis period. 
Lessening the financial burden of stamp duty in particular will lessen the perceived financial risk and act as a significant incentive to purchasers who may otherwise be discouraged from purchasing during this crucial period.
Similarly, such an initiative would encourage vendors to list their properties during the coronavirus period, buoyed by the likelihood of increased buyer activity.
In the 18 months following the end of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, The REIQ are urgently seeking the following further stamp duty related reforms to continue to support and stimulate the property market, which include:
a. Removal of stamp duty for persons aged 65+ years: This will encourage older Queenslanders to move into age-appropriate accommodation by reducing the financial burden of such a move. A likely consequence of this would be greater access to housing stock for younger Queenslanders.
b. A 50% reduction in stamp duty where residential investment property purchases are committed to the permanent rental market in Queensland for 3 years or more: A significant reduction in stamp duty for residential investment properties will have the effect of stimulating property investment in Queensland.
c. A 40% reduction in stamp duty for all other residential property purchases: A significant reduction in stamp duty payable on non-investment residential property purchases will have the effect of instilling confidence into the property market and provide incentive to individuals Australia-wide to consider migration to Queensland.
In calling for a 50% reduction in stamp duty for property purchases committed to the permanent rental market for 3 years or more (b), a natural consequence of the Prime Minister’s rental eviction moratorium and similar measure introduced to combat the financial impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) is that property investors (current or prospective) are likely to lose confidence in residential real estate as a viable investment option. 
Queensland has rapidly growing residential rental demand, a situation likely to be exacerbated by the financial impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19). The combination of increased rental demand and decreased property investment is a looming social time bomb. More than 90% of Queensland residential investment property supply is provided by ‘mum and dad’ investors who are most likely to be sensitive to increased risk to their property investment returns.
A significant decrease in stamp duty payable on residential investment properties, qualified by enforceable commitment by investors to making that property available to the permanent rental market, will have the dual effects of stimulating investment confidence and activity. It will position Queensland as a highly attractive investment market and ensure adequate supply is maintained to meet increasing demand.
To support property owner generally impacted by potential reductions in rental income, and households financially impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19), The REIQ is also urgently requesting the Queensland State Government to facilitate the following:
a. Provide a significant reduction or temporary removal of land tax for the period of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic;
b. Waive local government rates for those who have lost their income as a result of this crisis; and,
c. Implement a 50% discount on local government rates to assist household budgets and assist in stimulating the Queensland economy. 
Finally, to directly support the real estate profession that provide front line contact with participants in the property market and an invaluable service to property owners, investors and tenants, both commercial and residential, The REIQ is urgently seeking the Queensland State Government to:
a. Provide a 12-month extension to all existing licence and registration holders in Queensland, commencing 1 May 2020;
b. Provide Queensland State Government funding to The REIQ to assist it to continue to provide essential resources, training and support to the real estate industry, during the coronavirus (COVID-19) period and beyond; and,
c. Provide Queensland State Government funding to establish a Property Think Tank to identify new initiatives to maintain and regenerate local property markets and create opportunities and jobs within the real estate sector, with the consequential benefit being the continued generation of State Government revenue.
The REIQ believes that it isn’t enough to put money in people’s pockets during this time; instead, we need maintain confidence in the Queensland property market and assist the real estate sector to ride out this crisis and emerge stronger and more resilient for the benefit of all Queenslanders.
The REIQ fundamentally believe these relief package measures will keep Queenslanders employed within the State’s second largest employment sector, keep essential services functioning at this critical time, and most importantly accelerate our State economy’s recovery once this crisis has passed.
ANTONIA MERCORELLA is the CEO of the REIQ 
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REIQ urgently calls on State Government to protect Queensland property market: Antonia Mercorella

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The REIQ has begun a digital campaign to alert voters to the "threat" of Labor’s negative gearing reforms.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the campaign, called Stand For Stability, "will educate voters about the true impact of Labor’s very damaging negative gearing reforms, an impact that will affect every member of the community through devaluing assets, rising rents and lost government revenue."
“Labor’s proposed changes to negative gearing will be disastrous, adding further pressure to our fragile housing market by pushing down house prices, devaluing people’s biggest asset – their home or their investment property – and pushing up rents,” Ms Mercorella said. 
She highlighted recent concerns that many people don't understand what the proposed changes to negative gearing are and the effect it will have. 
Notably recent research from SQM has suggested rents could rise as much as 22 per cent if the reforms are introduced. 
Ms Mercorella said, “the research is very clear, the economy is facing challenges and the threat to growth is real. Labor will worsen housing affordability for renters through these reforms. Further, if recent reports are accurate, it is clear their policies are based on misleading, inaccurate data.”
“Why would Labor add fuel to the fire with these massive changes to negative gearing structures and capital gains tax arrangements? It’s reckless,” Ms Mercorella concluded
The online campaign will include animated videos, social media tiles and long form articles leading viewers and voters to <a id="LPlnk900533" href="http://reiq.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0yMDM0MTExJnA9MSZ1PTUxMzY3MDk2OSZsaT0xODA1NTI3MQ/index" target="_blank" data-auth="NotApplicable">StandForStability.com.au</a>.
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REIQ CEO calls Labor's negative gearing policy reckless and disastrous

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The inner Brisbane market has reported a sharp rise in rental vacancies, a lift from 2.1 per cent to 4.0 per cent in the December quarter.
But while this may seem a big jump, it’s actually not unusual for this market in the December quarter, the REIQ suggest.
"The 0-5km ring empties of renters in the Christmas/early January period and vacancies rise," said the REIQ chief Antonia Mercorella.
There has been an almost-decade long pattern of higher vacancies in December followed by a fall in the March quarter as the market returns to business as usual.
There was also a fall in the June and September quarters last year too in the inner city.
Brisbane’s middle ring (5-20km) held rock steady at 2.0 per cent from September to the December quarter. This closes out a very stable year for this region. In December 2017 the middle ring was 2.1 per cent, before it bumped up to 2.8 per cent in the March quarter. The June and September quarters were 2.1 per cent and 2.0 per cent respectively. The market forces of supply and demand are well balanced in this section of the market.
Brisbane LGA eased by 0.5 per cent, moving from a tight 2.0 per cent closer to a healthy ranking of 2.5 per cent. For most of 2017 this market averaged around 3.0 per cent to 3.5 per cent. Throughout 2018 it tightened a little as the more affordable middle ring lured tenants away from the central suburbs. But as supply to the inner city apartment market slows, it’s possible we’ll start to see this market tighten again over the coming year.
The Greater Brisbane region tightened from 2.4 per cent to 2.3 per cent.
A combination of factors is triggering investor nervousness in the Queensland rental market as the REIQ is seeing a slowdown in investor activity.
"Local agents in pockets of the southeast corner are reporting falling sales volumes, attributable to the perfect storm of real estate headwinds of tightened lending criteria, the legislation review, and the pending federal election," said Antonia Mercorella.
"As federal election campaigning begins to ramp up uncertainty around potential negative gearing adjustments and capital gains tax changes have caused many investors to hit pause on possible buying activity.
"The REIQ is hearing from agents that financing is causing contracts to fall over.
"We’re seeing tightened lending restrictions slowing both investors and first home buyers from getting into the market.
"The State Government’s ongoing review of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act is adding to the unease, particularly given the types of changes introduced in Victoria following a similar review of its rental legislation.
"Investors are concerned about a loss of control over their asset and worry about unwieldy legislation that will reduce their rights while ramping up concessions to tenants," she said.
Outer Brisbane (Ipswich, Logan, Moreton Bay and Redland) tightened from 2.8 per cent to 2.0 per cent, moving from healthy to tight. This market is being dragged into tight territory by the Redlands, which fell from 4.8 per cent to 1.6 per cent.
Ipswich tightened from 2.4 per cent to 1.8 per cent. Local agents report some jitters from investors who are nervous about the ongoing State Government review of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act. The population grew from 166,904 in 2011 to 193,733 – a gain of 26,829. This will add to the strain on rental accommodation.
Logan tightened from 3.5 per cent to 2. 4 per cent. This market has moved from healthy into tight and, similar to Ipswich, is partially feeling the impact of population growth. From 2011 to 2016, the population of Logan grew by more than 25,000, or the equivalent of more than 5,000 people a year. With many regions reporting muted investor activity this population growth will push vacancy rates lower.
Moreton Bay held steady at 2.0 per cent, the same as the September quarter. Home to North Lakes, one of the fastest growing SA2s in Queensland, according to ABS data, a stable vacancy rate of 2.0 per cent is noteworthy and indicates a region where supply and demand are well balanced. 
<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/2019/2/25/REIQ2.jpg" alt="">
The Gold Coast's December quarter vacancy rate saw a jump in the vacancy rate from 1.7 per cent to 4.8 per cent.
Several projects have been completed and added to the rental pool.
The largest of these is JLL’s Smith Collective build-to-rent dwellings.
The precinct has around 1251 dwellings, with first tenants moving in last month.   
Other developments have come online in Varsity, Broadbeach, Miami, Burleigh and Robina.
Agents are indicating that the market is price sensitive and tenants have choice, conditions that are relatively new to this market.
The REIQ signalled the third stand-out result for the December quarter was the Redlands, which tightened from 4.8 per cent to 1.6 per cent.
"This result represents a return to business as usual for this region which historically reports around 2 per cent vacancies," 
"The September result of 4.8 per cent was an outlier."
Local agents report that there has been noticeably less activity in the December/January period than usual.
Tenants are staying put, one property manager reported, summarising the general consensus on Redlands.
The Sunshine Coast SD (Sunshine Coast LGA and Noosa Shire combined) has tightened and is now firmly classified a tight rental market.
The vacancy rate has dropped from 2.4 per cent to 1.8 per cent. These tightened conditions will continue to exert upward pressure on prices and it is likely we will see some movement in rents if these conditions continue.
 
 
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Inner Brisbane vacancy rate jumps to 4 percent: REIQ

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Real estate peak body, The Real Estate Institute of Queensland, together with REA Group, the owners of listing portals realestate.com.au and Flatmates.com.au, have worked to establish a short-term solution for Townsville’s potential housing shortfall.
As the flooded homes are slowly cleaned up, displaced Townsville residents, along with workers flying into the city to help with repairs and clean-up efforts, may struggle to find suitable accommodation.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said she had seen this situation in other areas facing disasters, including the Whitsundays after Cyclone Debbie in 2017. 
"The displaced locals whose homes have flooded and the hundreds of workers who have come to the area to start on repairs place a strain on available accommodation.
“Flatmates.com.au will waive listing fees for those in Townsville who are opening their homes, rent free to anyone in need of short-term accommodation during the massive clean-up operation,” Ms Mercorella said.
“It’s difficult to forecast how severe the housing shortfall might be, but this kind of creative and proactive solution should help ease some of the strain on the housing supply,” she said. 
Single rooms are well suited to tradespeople who are only in town for short periods and this will hopefully free up larger housing accommodation for families who have lost their home and property.
<a id="LPlnk632194" href="http://reiq.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT0yMDE1MTM0JnA9MSZ1PTUxMzY3MDk2OSZsaT0xNzc1NDQ3Mg/index" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Flatmates.com.au</a> general manager, Simon Hope, said housing solutions was at the heart of what REA Group is all about.
“We wanted to help by offering a solution that brings together those who have spare accommodation and those who are in need of accommodation in a simple and effective way,” he said.
 “This solution is about helping the people of Townsville get back on their feet, so Flatmates.com.au will be waiving all fees for those people offering rent free accommodation.” he said.
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REIQ and REA partner to ease Townsville housing shortfall

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Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast all posted record annual median house prices in the September quarter of the REIQ Queensland Market Monitor report. 
The Sunshine Coast was the best performer, delivering a 6.3 percent growth to a new median house price high of $595,000.
The Brisbane annual median house price grew 2.3 per cent to a new high of $675,000, while the Gold Coast grew 3.8 per cent to $629,000.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the strength of growth proved that Queensland real estate was a good investment and could be relied upon to deliver capital growth.
“While other markets around the country are struggling in the face of tightened lending criteria and cooling investor appetite, the southeast corner of Queensland continues to deliver steady, sustainable growth,” Mercorella said.
<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/2018/12/11/REIQ1.jpg" alt="">
“Queensland’s economy is proving itself to be a good performer, against a backdrop of national gloom, with new jobs bringing population growth and demand for housing,” she said.
“The southeast corner is our powerhouse, without a doubt, but additionally we’re seeing strong results in regions that have been struggling.
“The resources sector is improving and we’re seeing regions such as Mackay and areas of western Queensland firmly in recovery.”
The unit market has not fared so well and has delivered largely softer results across the state as this product battles against oversupply issues.
Brisbane LGA annual median unit price fell 2.2 per cent to $440,000. This market is now only 5.5 per cent stronger than it was five years ago.
The Gold Coast unit market, which is the biggest unit market in the state with more than 10,000 sales per year, fell 1.6 per cent to an annual median unit price of $425,000.
“This is the first time we’ve been clear in the post-Comms Game period and it’s encouraging to see that the market is bubbling along," Mercorella said.
Click here to enlarge.
<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/2018/12/11/REIQ3.jpg" alt="">
"The house market has delivered good growth and the unit market is still absorbing some small oversupply, but on the whole we remaining optimistic for this market,” Ms Mercorella said.
The Sunshine Coast SD bucked the trend, adding 3.1 per cent to the annual median unit price, to reach $430,000.
Noosa was the strongest performing house and unit market for the 12 months to September 2018. The Noosa median house price grew 8.7 per cent to a stunning $715,000. The median unit price grew a breathtaking 12.2 per cent to a new record price of $550,000.
“This market has roared up to the top of the table and completely smashed the growth trends,” Ms Mercorella said. 
“The demand for living in Noosa, either in a house or unit, seems to be almost insatiable,” she said.
It was a mixed bag for houses in the regional markets.
Whitsundays saw a huge increase of 10.8 percent over the year to see its median house price reach $360,000. Mackay roared back to post a 5.6 percent growth in the annual median house price. 
Cairns (1.2%), Fraser Coast (1.1%) and Toowoomba (0.6%) saw their median house price grow, with Bundaberg remaining steady. 
The house price markets in Rockhampton eased 0.8 percent, while Townsville (-4.5%) and Gladstone prices fell significantly again, down 8.1 percent to $266,500.
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast all post record annual median house prices in September Quarter

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Almost 70 Queensland suburbs delivered double digit house price growth over 12 months to June, according to the latest REIQ research from the Queensland Market Monitor report.
There were 11 suburbs that reached an annual house price growth of more than 20 percent.
The top performing was Blackwater in the Central Highlands region not far from Rockhampton, which saw its prices soar 151%.
Spring Mountain near Ipswich grew over 103%, while there was more success all along the Queensland coast.
House prices in Collinsville, inland from the Whitsundays rose 46% over the year, during which Minyama (45%), Hollywell (30%), Mount Coolum (pictured above, 22%), Dundooran in Hervey Bay (21%) and Idalia in Townsville (21%) grew as the coasts best performers.
Hamilton (33%), Miles (23%), and Boonah (21%) were the inlands best performers also secured over the 20 percent growth mark.
Click here to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/11/7/top-qld.jpg" target="_blank">enlarge the full list.</a>
<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/2018/11/7/top-qld.jpg" alt="">
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said while many headlines predicted doom and gloom for the property market, the reality was very different with many markets in Queensland performing exceptionally well.
“A total of 68 suburbs throughout Queensland have delivered double-digit growth over 12 months, which is a really strong result,” Mercorella said.
“And there are m any more suburbs delivering strong single-digit growth. It’s a great market to be in at the moment.”
“The top area delivering the strongest growth has been Blackwater, with 151 per cent growth. This is a results of the resurgence in coal prices and the low base starting point."
A total of 41 suburbs in the southeast corner dominated the list of top performers for capital growth in Queensland, comprising around 60 percent of all 68 suburbs included on the list.
Mercorella however suggested the suburbs delivering good growth are not all focused in the southeast corner, with a liberal sprinkling of suburbs throughout central and northern Queensland.
“This spread of suburbs is a good indication that Queensland real estate is delivering steady sustainable growth across the board. We’re seeing growth outside the southeast corner,” Ms Mercorella said.
Mercorella cautioned against celebrating another ‘boom’.  
“While we’re definitely seeing prices come back in western Queensland mining towns, such as Blackwater, these prices are still below their peak. It’s unlikely we’ll see a return to pre-2013 prices in those areas anytime soon,” she said. 
A total of 13 suburbs in Brisbane LGA made the list of top performers for the past year. Hamilton was the fifth strongest performer in Queensland and the best performer in Brisbane LGA.
House prices in Hamilton increased 32.9 per cent for the past year, to $1,442,000. Hamilton was also the most expensive suburb included on the list of Queensland top performers.
Other suburbs in Brisbane LGA reaching a capital growth for houses of 10 per cent or higher were Sandgate, Paddington, Mount Ommaney, Sunnybank, Graceville, Hendra, Shorncliffe, Seven Hills, Nundah, Kedron, Bulimba and Auchenflower.
Ipswich had six suburbs on the list, the Gold Coast had four and Moreton Bay had three. Redland and Logan had not suburbs on the list. 
Hollywell in the Gold Coast is listed as the sixth performer in Queensland, with houses reaching a capital growth of 30.5 per cent for the past year taking its median to $810,000.
The top performer in regional Queensland was Townsville, where there were four suburbs reaching double digit house price growth. 
Cairns and Gympie had three suburbs on the list of top performers. 
Palm Cove was the best performer in Cairns, ranking 26th within the Queensland tally. House prices in Palm Cove increased 14.3 per cent, to $606,000 in June 2018. 
The Whitsunday only reported Collinsville on the list, which is ranked third throughout the state. Collinsville is a mining town, reporting an annual capital growth for houses of 46.2 per cent, to $95,000 in June 2018.
 
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Coastal areas star as Queensland's double-digit growth suburbs are revealed: REIQ

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<div>The Queensland rental market has tightened over the year to June 2018.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The latest quarter reported 24 tight markets, up from 19 tight markets in the March quarter according to the latest report from REIQ.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Brisbane LGA ’s rental market moved from the healthy range, with vacancies of 3.1 per cent in March, to the tight range, with 2.3 per cent in June 2018.  However, this market is being described by local agents as patchy, with tenants favouring certain pockets over others.</div>
<div>
 The rental markets in Greater Brisbane, including the outer Brisbane regions of Ipswich, Logan, Moreton Bay and Redland, are tight with vacancies in the range of 1.2 per cent to 2.5 per cent.</div>
<div>
 The historically tight markets of the Sunshine and Gold coasts have loosened this quarter, however, they have for the most part remained within the tight range.</div>
<div>
 The Fraser Coast rental market tightened more than 1 percentage point, from 1.9 per cent to 0.8 per cent.  Regional Queensland continued strengthening this quarter, with Toowoomba, Mackay, Bundaberg, and Rockhampton operating within the tight or healthy range.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Greater Brisbane’s vacancy rates tightened to 2.2 per cent, sitting within the tight range for the first time in nearly three years.</div>
<div>
 The tightest of all markets in Queensland is South Burnett, where vacancies were recorded at 0.5 per cent.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The tightest major centre rental market is Maryborough, with 0.7 per cent vacancy rate (a tightening of 1.8 per cent) from 2.5 per cent in the March quarter.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Cassowary Coast is the weakest rental market in Queensland. This market is historically weak but 5.9 per cent is an improvement on recent levels which included 11.5 per cent in December 2017.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The second weakest major centre market is Townsville at 4 per cent vacancy rate however in March 2017 the Townsville vacancy rate was 6.2 per cent.</div>
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Brisbane patchy, as REIQ reports the increasing tightness of rental markets

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The REIQ membership have voted to change the constitution, mandating two member director positions for women and one for an under-35.
To change the constitution a special resolution requires support from 75 per cent of the membership.
These changes mark a shift for the 100-year-old organisation, signifying a drive to ensure greater diversity in the boardroom and bringing it into line with modern corporate Australia.
“Women make up 50.6 per cent of the population in Queensland and yet they are under-represented at a boardroom level throughout the state,” REIQ Chairman Peter Brewer said.
“Governments and corporations are introducing these targets to ensure that a range of ideas from diverse backgrounds are heard at all levels and the REIQ is among them,” Brewer added. 
In its 100 year history, the REIQ membership has elected only seven women to the Board and only one under-35-year-old Member Director.
This constitutional change reflects the new three-year strategic plan that focuses on being more inclusive and developing a deeper understanding of our membership.
“Like all membership organisations, we are struggling to connect with younger people and we want to make sure that our decisions are made with the entire membership in mind, reflecting the diverse range of voices and experiences in the membership,” he said.
The REIQ CEO is Antonia Mercorella, the first woman to be appointed to the role in its 100-year history.
The REIQ Board already mandates two positions reserved for regional Queensland Member Directors.
The changes to the constitution will roll out over the next two years and be in full effect by 2020.
The REIQ is the peak body for real estate practitioners throughout Queensland, representing more than 15,000 real estate agents, property managers, buyers agents, business brokers, auctioneers and commercial &amp; industrial agents.
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