A subtropical pair of residential towers are in planning for a key South Brisbane site neighbouring the iconic Expo ’88 Skyneedle, with new documents revealing a vertically layered vision designed to respond to the precinct’s evolving high-density character.

The proposal has been lodged by&nbsp;Darveniza Group, which is also is behind the 400-apartment Station Quarter precinct in Alderley.

Darveniza Group, led by Jane Darveniza, the Brisbane-based investor and Queensland rich-lister and widow of the late property magnate Bojan Darveniza, is seeking approval for a mixed-use project encompassing 204 apartments, ground-level retail, food and drink tenancies, and office space across two architecturally integrated towers at 37–39 Manning Street.

Occupying an 1,822 sqm site, the proposed towers would rise above a sculptural podium base, with a recessed landscaped centre, rooftop communal areas, and a total of 220 car parks and 256 bicycle bays. The apartment mix spans one- to five-bedroom dwellings, with a design emphasis on generous balconies, cross-ventilation, and climate-responsive materials.

<img alt="First look: Twin towers proposed for Manning Street site beside Skyneedle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c1f501-2afd-440b-af49-67c257123ea7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manning%20podium.png?VersionId=KFlksfWzmDRD.VIYxd_1q3VAel.nN3TH" />

“The development is conceived as two slender twin buildings that meet at a lushly landscaped central recess,” the Finegrain design report states. “The façade is highly articulated with the plan form stepping back and forth to reduce visual bulk and maximise internal occupants’ access to natural light and air”.

A hallmark of the proposal is its integration of greenery, both visually and functionally. Around 77 per cent of the site’s green plot ratio is delivered through vertical planting spines, a green podium wall, and rooftop amenity. Ground-level deep planting and landscaped communal zones aim to create a shaded, walkable interface along Manning Street.

“The stepped plan form introduces variation in balcony setbacks and enclosed apartment areas, enriching both the façade expression and the resident experience,” the design team notes. “At ground and podium levels, this stepping also enhances permeability, maximising pedestrian view lines to the neighbouring Skyneedle and reinforcing a strong sense of local identity”.

<img alt="First look: Twin towers proposed for Manning Street site beside Skyneedle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3f26dfc-6b93-465c-9ffb-0a2530372a23" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manning%20site.png?VersionId=JflvKdqDxcaHTFbb9HL5TwoiRgeQ2LqA" />

The site directly adjoins the heritage-listed Skyneedle at 35 Manning Street, an enduring legacy of World Expo ’88. The accompanying heritage impact report by Pendergast Architects contends that the proposal has been carefully conceived to protect the cultural significance and landmark visibility of the structure.

“The design provides setbacks, tower separation and podium articulation to maintain the visibility and landmark role of the adjoining Skyneedle,” the report states. “The significance of the Skyneedle lies principally in its landmark visibility and cultural symbolism, rather than in detailed fabric or architectural setting”.

The proposal sits within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct, under Brisbane’s TLPI 02/2023, where revised planning controls support high-density, mixed-use development integrated with subtropical design and increased public realm contributions.

Finegrain’s design reflects this intent, drawing cues from the site's adjacency to Musgrave Park, the subtropical landscape of South Brisbane, and cultural landmarks such as QPAC and South Bank.

Joel Robinson

Twin green towers proposed for Manning Street, South Brisbane site beside Skyneedle

A first-of-its-kind culinary precinct is coming to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a>, inspired by global street-food flavours and best-in-class restaurants and entertainment.

Deicorp’s emerging mid-city precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/melrose-central-melrose-park-33-hope-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Central</a>, will become the go-to precinct within the wider Melrose Park community, and at its heart, a first-of-its-kind culinary precinct that brings the buzz of Asia’s most iconic food streets to life.

Spanning more than 4,700 sqm, Melrose Central street food precinct is inspired by the energy and vibrant flavours of street-food neighbourhoods from Hong Kong and Tokyo to Seoul and Singapore.

This new destination will be over three times the size of existing offerings like Burwood Chinatown or Westfield Chatswood’s Hawker Lane, positioning Melrose Central as a must-visit dining hub for all of Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289878]

Designed by Anthony Ho of Basalt Studio, this street food concept blurs the lines between culinary theatre, art, and entertainment, offering an immersive experience. Neon-lit laneways thread between open kitchens and live grill stations, while murals, interactive displays, and light installations will bring the precinct to life, trading until late, a first for the area.

“We’ve imagined our street food concept as a graduated evolution of everything people love about Burwood Chinatown, East Village and Regent Place, elevated by the immersive artistry creating a city-style dining offer,” said Bilinda Turner, Head of Retail at Deicorp.

“By curating the very best tenants from across Australia, we’re creating a fit-for-purpose town centre for 2025 and beyond. It’s something that people truly haven’t seen before."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=352610]

Melrose Central is far more than a food precinct. Spanning 30,000 sqm across four levels, the shopping centre will be home to approximately 100 retailers, providing a total lifestyle offering from morning until late evening.

Fresh food offerings span a brand new Coles Supermarket, Local Grocer, Korean Supermarket, Bakery and boutique fresh food, as well as a Dan Murphy's, while health needs are covered from a pharmacy, medical centre and allied health. Fitness and wellbeing take centre stage from a dedicated wellbeing hub that includes pilates, recovery, Infrared saunas and a gym, to name a few.

Variety stores will feature throughout, as well as personal care offerings from nail salons to hairdressers, as well as a dedicated early-learning centre on level 1.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289888]

Situated above the retail precinct will be 495 Turner Studio-designed apartments that open onto 6,000 sqm of lush podium gardens and rooftop terraces.

Located just six kilometres east of Parramatta’s CBD and 15km from Sydney CBD, Melrose Central forms the retail and lifestyle heart of Melrose Park, an urban-renewal precinct that is set to deliver more than 11,000 homes, 22,000 new residents, and 50,000 sqm of park and open space.

A dedicated stop on Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 will arrive at the precinct’s Hope Street entrance, and the forthcoming Parramatta Gateway Bridge will link directly to Sydney Olympic Park and Wentworth Point.&nbsp;

Supported by a 10-minute drive, this growing catchment of 200,000 people, which is projected to grow to 279,000 by 2026, and an average household income above the Greater Sydney average, Melrose Central embodies Deicorp’s vision for transport-oriented, community-focused placemaking.&nbsp;

Melrose Central street food precinct and the wider Melrose Central retail town centre are both slated to open in mid-2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134220]

Melrose Central: First-of-its-kind culinary precinct coming to Sydney’s West

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> has unveiled the fifth and final stage of its $1 billion Norwest community, The Orchards.

The final stage, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/zeste-at-the-orchards-norwest-104-fairway-drive-norwest-nsw-2153">Zeste</a>, will deliver 209 apartments across two distinctive buildings, Essence and Eden. The 135 apartments in Essence will be the first to be released to the market, which will bring to an end the decade-long vision to create a&nbsp;neighbourhood defined by design excellence, sustainability, and community engagement.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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David Lee, Sales Manager at Sekisui House Australia said, Zeste's oversized living spaces and diverse apartment mix, which includes the introduction of&nbsp;Breezeway Sky Homes for the first time, deliver a unique lifestyle offering.

Early purchasers will benefit from exclusive VIP pricing as well as the choice of one premium upgrade, which Lee says is a "thank you" for their commitment to the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=351876]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, Zeste embodies Sekisui House’s global design philosophy of creating harmony between people, homes and nature. Principal Ben Pomroy explained that Zeste is about living within the landscape.

“With two large courtyards, the lagoon pool precinct for the wider community and a central courtyard with pavilion exclusively for Zeste residents, the architecture frames an experience of living in a park," Pomroy said.

“Over 50 per cent of the site is landscaped, ensuring a deep connection to nature at every stage of daily life. The buildings are designed as a collection of smaller, finer-grain forms, with over 85% of apartments enjoying dual aspects.

“The focus on natural ventilation, generous layouts and communal interaction creates a residential environment that is both sustainable and socially connected.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=351886]

Natalie Shalala, a member of Rothelowman’s interiors team said they reimagined the former site’s Orchard homestead with a contemporary twist. &nbsp;

“The design draws on the nostalgia of the past orchard – timber floors, the warmth of a fireplace, the rituals of the homestead and reinvents them for modern apartment living,"&nbsp;Shalala said.

“We have created two tonal palettes, one with pale honey undertones and another with a soft blush inspired by nectar. A highlight feature is the cathedral glass light box, a bespoke design element that re-interprets the classic lantern. It is both beautiful and functional, tying kitchen and bathroom spaces together in a way that feels entirely unique."

Shalala said the&nbsp;day-to-day liveability has been carefully considered, with abundant storage solutions, butler’s pantries, bike storage and joinery designed to simplify routines and enhance comfort.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=352090]

Apartments in Zeste start from $715,000 for one-bedrooms and extend through to expansive three-bedroom Sky Homes priced from $2.25 million. Floorplans range from 59 sqm to 144sqm.

The mix in Essence comprises 41 one-bedroom, seven one-bedroom + Max space, 39 two-bedroom, 40 two-bedroom Breezeway Sky Homes (24 of which include additional Max spaces), and eight three-bedroom residences.&nbsp;

Max spaces are integrated into select residences, offering a flexible room that can be tailored to individual needs, ideal as a home office, children’s play area, or additional storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150510 project_image_fid=351881]

Zeste continues Sekisui House Australia’s partnership with Altogether Group, providing sustainable water, power and data services to residents. Passive design strategies include cross-ventilation, deep landscaping and water features that encourage evaporative cooling, aligning with The Orchards long-term environmental goals.&nbsp;

Construction is set to commence on the Zeste buildings in early 2026, with completion anticipated in late 2027 to early 2028.&nbsp;

More than 850 apartments have been sold across the masterplan, contributing to The Orchards community of 1,300 apartments when complete.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150510]

Sekisui House Australia launches Zeste, the final stage of its $1 billion Norwest masterplan

A significant addition to the Bella Vista Station Precinct is in the pipeline, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/landen-property">Landen</a> formally lodging a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/40-memorial-avenue-bella-vista-40-memorial-avenue-nsw-2153">new apartment community on Memorial Avenue</a>.

Positioned beside the Elizabeth Macarthur Creek corridor, the project is among the first major transit-oriented residential proposals within the Metro precinct.

The masterplan, designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">Turner Architects</a>,&nbsp;outlines a four-stage delivery, comprising four buildings between four and fifteen storeys, and includes a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a limited selection of four-bedroom penthouses and terraces.

The project places a strong emphasis on housing diversity and liveability, with apartment sizes ranging from 50 to 180 sqm. The first stage will deliver 213 dwellings, followed by 231 in the second stage. Construction is expected to commence in 2026, pending approvals.

<img alt="Bella Vista Apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb3d84b1-d2df-4e26-915a-31b27faf9b1a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/View02_01-scaled.jpg?VersionId=Gb0AUtZ3VXsLxrqUaw_AwT_vcBwQ_FJu" />

As the first transit-oriented development (TOD) in the precinct, Landen’s Bella Vista community has been designed to align closely with the surrounding Metro infrastructure. The proposal integrates new pedestrian and cycling paths, a new bridge over Elizabeth Macarthur Creek, and direct access to Bella Vista Metro Station.

Lush communal amenities are also central to the design. 'The Grove' and the 'Garden Link' will create landscaped community areas that reflect the area's agricultural heritage and provide direct access to the creekside.&nbsp;

The ‘Garden Patio’ is conceived as a multi-use indoor-outdoor facility offering a gym, study nooks, and communal lounge spaces.&nbsp;Rooftop terraces across the buildings will offer views to the Blue Mountains and Parramatta skyline.

<img alt="Bella Vista Apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="778da409-d5cf-4e7d-9ba9-0c36990bf0b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/landen-bella-property-image.jpg?VersionId=ukPpmVcHF71xRc7U3MUT5rtGwOsntMMz" />

Landen’s Head of Property, Shane Harding, said the proposal highlights the developer’s precinct-scale ambition.

“As the first TOD proposal in Bella Vista, it highlights Landen’s ability to pioneer precinct-scale projects, integrate housing with infrastructure, and deliver outcomes that align with government priorities,” Harding told the Daily Telegraph.

The project arrives at a time of rapid growth in Western Sydney, with Bella Vista alone forecast to more than double in population by 2046. The development’s location, between the Bella Vista and Kellyville Metro stations, positions it as a connected lifestyle hub for families, professionals and downsizers seeking access to transport, schools, and employment centres.

Pending approval, the development is slated for completion in 2028.

Landen plans 444-apartment community in Bella Vista Metro zone

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/equicentia">Equicentia</a>, together with joint venture partners Wingala Capital and Monark Property Partners, has become the first in Manly to secure Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance.

The trio has recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/de-ville-manly-11-victoria-parade-manly-nsw-2095">De Ville</a>, a new luxury project on a long-dormant yet prime site at 9–11 Victoria Parade, positioned between East Esplanade and South Steyne.

<img alt="De Ville" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b2639bb1-d72c-4f28-b4dc-33190655e147" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-12%20at%209.38.37%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=orUAk2m2tTKAAasLvZg0IaGQyDaZcKYI" />

The site was originally earmarked for a 26-apartment scheme, but following its $25 million acquisition of the near-1,200 sqm parcel, the development team opted for a more refined approach, reducing the yield to just 12 two- and three-bedroom residences across a six-level building.

Among them will be three full-floor penthouses boasting panoramic views across Manly Beach, North Harbour, and the city skyline. The apartments will sit above four ground-floor retail and commercial tenancies, designed to help activate Victoria Parade, an area long defined by its beachside character and interwar brick architecture.

<img alt="De Ville" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6922f4a-21fb-4a07-8e40-241d594c2538" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/int3.jpg?VersionId=7U1Qw79_YT3bOZKr7.H03JHOFm3QVYlE" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/platform-architects">Platform Architects</a>, De Ville’s sculpted form takes cues from the ebb and flow of Manly’s dual waterfronts, the ocean to one side and the harbour to the other.&nbsp;

The architecture’s soft curvature and rhythmic vertical brickwork reflect the natural patterns of the tide, while a refined palette of Lohas brick, sandy render and glass detailing allows the building to harmonise with its coastal context.&nbsp; Cascading greenery and deep balconies bring texture and shadow to the facade, reinforcing the building’s connection to nature and the street.

Buyers have a choice of two different colour palettes, Taj Mahal and Brescia Green, each layering soft tones and organic finishes to capture the coastal light.

<img alt="De Ville" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="be78b114-88ed-4d33-a4ef-50e14d2f9064" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/int6a.jpg?VersionId=hBrZPvs1L2LwThSatcNMXTg0tltfEn4a" />

De Ville is the first development in Manly to fully protect its buyers with 10-year Latent Defects Insurance offered by Resilience Insurance.

The policy covers buyers for 10-years post-completion of the building, a first-resort cover again&nbsp;major structural or waterproofing defects.&nbsp;

Unlike traditional statutory warranties, which often require complex and lengthy claims processes, LDI ensures that if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds immediately - without the need to prove fault or pursue the builder or developer.

This new model of protection has been gaining traction among forward-thinking developers and financiers alike. For buyers, it offers tangible assurance of quality and accountability; for lenders and insurers, it reflects a measurable reduction in long-term risk.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/what-is-latent-defects-insurance-and-is-it-bringing-confidence-to-the-off-the-plan-apartment-market">What is Latent Defects Insurance and is it bringing confidence to the off the plan apartment market?</a>

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Equicentia launches Manly's first new development with 10-year Latent Defects Insurance

Research

Homophobia, bullying and harassment continues in the construction industry despite improving attitudes towards LGBTQ+ employees, according to new research from the Australian Human Rights Institute at UNSW released Tuesday.

The report, which looked into the experiences of LGBTQ+ people working in construction and the effectiveness of current diversity and inclusion strategies, was undertaken in conjunction with InterBuild&rsquo;s People Engagement working group and sponsored by the Lendlease Foundation.

Researchers Dr Natalie Galea and Dr Melissa Jardine found that while LGBTQ+ inclusion has improved, there is a &ldquo;significant variation across the industry&rdquo; and many people still don&rsquo;t feel safe bringing their authentic selves to work.

<img alt="" height="667" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/shutterstock_1396952330.jpg" width="1000" />

Participants in the study ranged from tradespeople to senior executives of multinational companies, and gave detailed accounts about coming out at work, the experience of transitioning gender in the workplace, and the effectiveness of existing diversity and inclusion strategies.

Another study published by <a href="https://www.pwc.com.au/publications/pdf/pwc-workplace-inclusion-report-sep17.pdf" target="_blank">PwC&rsquo;s GLEE team</a> showed that homophobia was more present within the construction industry than on average.

75 per cent of respondents from the construction sector, Australia&rsquo;s most male-dominated industry and the third-largest national employer, indicated&nbsp;they had observed homophobia, compared to 56 per cent in other sectors.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3459 project_image_fid=147569]

Lead author of the UNSW report Dr Galea said that while most participants felt there was a positive trajectory in workplace attitudes, many noted the sector was coming off a very low base.

&ldquo;The research found it was particularly challenging for those in junior positions, apprentices and FIFO workers to navigate the construction sector as an LGBTQ+ worker due to a lack of power and a desire to &lsquo;fit in&rsquo; to avoid anticipated negative responses,&rdquo; Dr Galea said.

One of the participants, who is in their 40s and identifies as queer, said: &ldquo;I&rsquo;m going to wait until I finish my apprenticeship and get a permanent position [before being more open about my identity] even though my role is considered permanent... I feel like I need people to see that I do a good job and I&rsquo;m an okay person.&rdquo;

<img alt="" height="423" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/lgbtq_construction_thumb_0.jpeg" width="740" />

Co-author Dr Jardine said the research found that industry leaders often lacked awareness of inclusive LGBT+ practices and in some cases failed to act on homophobic or discriminatory behaviours.

&ldquo;Despite many examples of good leadership, participants expressed frustration that some leaders turned a blind eye and failed to act or challenge homophobic behaviour and attitudes, especially from &lsquo;old school&rsquo; men,&rdquo; Dr Jardine said.

The report, which included recommendations for government and businesses, noted that this&nbsp;risks entrenching current behaviours and may lead to the loss of new talent.

Other recommendations to recalibrate industry behaviours and value the engagement of all workers included sexism, homophobia and transphobia education, publicly available inclusion policies, and a mental health service for LGBTQ+ tradies with qualified counsellors who understand the construction sector.

The full report, titled Building an LGBTQ+ inclusive workplace: A blueprint for Australia&rsquo;s construction industry is available to read <a href="https://www.humanrights.unsw.edu.au/research/lgbtq-workers-australian-construction-sector" target="_blank">here</a>.

Australian Human Rights Institute at UNSW released a new report, 'Building an LGBTQ+ inclusive workplace: A blueprint for Australia’s construction industry', on Tuesday

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New UNSW research reveals barriers to LGBTQ+ inclusion in the construction industry

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The global recession, sparked by record job losses in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, will hurt demand for office real estate, with occupancy and rental rates to come under pressure, according to the latest findings from S&amp;P Global Ratings.
“Rent collection for office properties has remained high but we expect landlords to share some of the pain as tenants' capacity to pay rent is impaired” the firm said.
According to the June report, office real estate investment trusts (REITs) entered this recession in relatively good shape -Low vacancy rates and steady rent growth, and long-term leases and staggered lease maturity schedules, should help mitigate the impact of the recession.
“We expect COVID-19 to accelerate the adoption of remote working and lead to a gradual reduction in the office footprint” the firm added.
The sustainability of co-working concepts could also add pressure to the office sector, particularly in gateway markets.
“We expect negative ratings bias to grow over the next year, although down grade risks are mitigated by adequate cushion under credit metrics, relatively good balance sheets, and solid liquidity” the firm concluded.
 
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COVID-19 accelerates structural shifts in real estate and REITs: S&P Global Ratings 

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House prices have increased, according to the latest edition of Real Estate Market Facts, published by the REIA.
“During the March quarter 2020, the weighted average median price for houses for the eight capital cities increased to $786,923, with Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart and Darwin all having increases,” said Mr Adrian Kelly, president, REIA.
“The weighted average median price for other dwellings increased to $602,293 over the quarter, with prices increasing in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide but decreasing in Brisbane, Perth, Canberra, Hobart and Darwin.”
Mr Kelly said the March 2020 quarterly change in median prices was the largest March quarter increase since 2017 which was the beginning of the housing boom of 2017/18.
“Over the quarter, the median rent for three-bedroom houses increased in all capital cities except for Brisbane and Perth, which remained steady and Darwin, which decreased,” said Mr Kelly.
 “The median rent for two-bedroom other dwellings increased in all capital cities except Darwin, which had a 2.4% decrease. 
“The weighted average vacancy rate for the eight capital cities decreased to 2.5% during the March quarter, which shows a tightening in the market compared to last quarter.
“However, this is prior to markets showing the impact of COVID-19.”
Mr Kelly said with the new lending to household data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, lending to households for investment in dwellings decreased 16.3% over the quarter and decreased 13.1% for owner occupiers.
“The decrease is usual for the March quarter and has been occurring for the past 10 years,” said Mr Kelly.
“Our next report will reflect the impacts of the start of the COVID-19 pandemic on both the sales and rental markets.”
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House prices on the bounce back: REIA

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Australia just experienced the second-warmest summer on record, with 2019 being the hottest year.
Summer temperatures soared across the country, causing great economic and human loss.
The good news is we can do something about this in our own backyards. We have found trees and vegetation can lower local land temperatures by up to 5-6℃ on days of extreme heat.
<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/2020/3/10/HEAT%201.jpg" alt="">
Our newly published research into a summer heatwave in Adelaide suggests that a simple solution to extreme heat is literally at everyone’s doorstep. It relies on the trees, the grasses and the vegetation in our own backyards.
During a three-day heatwave that hit Adelaide in 2017, AdaptWest took to the skies to measure land surface temperatures from an aircraft.
Our analysis of the data collected on that day suggests urban trees and grasses can lower daytime land temperatures by up to 5-6℃ during extreme heat.
The largest temperature reductions were in the hottest suburbs and those further away from the coast. These significant reductions were mostly achieved thanks to backyard trees. 
So this benefit that urban trees provide has two key aspects:
<ul>
<li>maximum cooling happens when needed the most – during days of unbearable heat.</li>
<li>maximum cooling happens where needed the most – close to us, the people, in the communities where we live.</li>
</ul>
Our analysis also shows the humble home garden more than pulls its weight when it comes to reducing extreme urban heat and its harmful effects.
Although yards and gardens cover only about 20% of urban land, these private spaces provide more than 40% of the tree cover and 30% of grass cover across western Adelaide. This is comparable to what can be found in many other Australian cities and towns.
<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/2020/3/10/HEAT%202.jpg" alt="Daytime thermal imaging of land surface temperature in Walkley Heights, Adelaide, taken from an aircraft (inset) on February 9 2017 at the peak of a three-day 40°C heatwave. The area on the right is cooler (blue shades) because of greater vegetation cover. In the hotter area on the left (red shades) a residential development built in 2003 has smaller yards with less tree cover.">
In fact, private tree canopy cover is considerably greater than that of typical urban parks or public green areas. This means these private green spaces are a vital yet often overlooked resource for fighting extreme heat.
Climate models and projections predict extreme heat days and heatwaves will become more frequent and intense.
Penrith reached 48.9℃ on January 4 this year, making Western Sydney the hottest place on Earth that day.
Given that heatwaves are already considered Australia’s deadliest climate-related disaster, the forecast temperatures pose an urgent threat to human livelihoods.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/3/10/HEAT%203.png" alt="">
Urban planning is increasingly having to take extreme temperatures into account. For instance, the City of Sydney recently announced an ambitious policy to increase urban green cover to 40% by 2050 for climate change resilience.
Currently, this level of green cover is found in only a handful of suburbs in cities like Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.
To achieve such ambitious and life-sustaining goals, our results point to the need to retain, protect and enhance urban greenery in our own yards. As our cities become increasingly dense, people’s trees and yards can play an invaluable role in adapting to climate change.
Most council, state and federal policies to date have neglected yards and their trees when thinking about climate change adaptation.
When envisioning how Australian cities should grow, develop and thrive, more attention has to be given to the spaces where our yards and trees can help reduce the catastrophic effects of a warming climate on people and communities, right at our doorstep.
Climate change is causing a social, cultural and political revolution. It calls for bold, decisive and immediate action. This is a lifetime opportunity for smart and proactive planning, policy-making and community action. This work needs to begin now.
Urban forests don’t grow quickly, however. We need to be encouraging low-water-use grass and shrub covers as a fast interim strategy for urban cooling.
This is a stopgap measure until a large army of climate-ready tree soldiers, that we can decide to plant today, take over the job of fighting climate change and extreme heat in our future cities.
Alessandro Ossola is a Research Coordinator of the Which Plant Where project at the Centre for Smart Green Cities at Macquarie University.
Leigh Staas is the Associate Director for Engagement &amp; Research Partnerships at Macquarie University’s Centre for Smart Green Cities 
Michelle Leishman leads a research lab in the Department of Biological Sciences at Macquarie University, and is Director of the university’s Smart Green Cities.
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A solution to cut extreme heat by up to 6 degrees is in our own backyards

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Up to 45 per cent of household incomes have already been, or soon will be, reduced as a result of Government-mandated restrictions, according to the latest research from comparethemarket.com.au.
Furthermore, the study found that four in five impacted households are freeing up cash by deferring loan or credit card repayments, or accessing cash by withdrawing from their super, term deposits or life savings.
The financial comparison service commissioned an independent, nationally representative survey of 1002 Australian mortgagors.
Respondents were asked if they were losing income due to social restrictions, and what changes they will make to their finances as a result, including their mortgage repayments.
The survey found that 11 per cent of respondents or their partners had lost their jobs, while a further 5 per cent think they are yet to lose their jobs.
In addition, 18 per cent of respondents or their partners had received a pay cut, while a further 11 per cent believe a pay cut is coming. 
Comparethemarket.com.au also asked respondents if they were concerned about meeting mortgage repayments as a result of their reduced income.
Among households who have, or will have, their incomes cut, 71 per cent said they are worried about repayments for the remainder of 2020.
Many lenders are allowing customers to defer mortgage repayments for up to six months in the current climate; however, payments on interest are not exempt.
The survey also asked if respondents have, or will be, freeing up or accessing cash by deferring mortgage or personal loan repayments, withdrawing from their superannuation, breaking a term deposit, drawing on their savings or using a credit card less.
Among the 45 per cent of respondents whose incomes are being impacted, more than four in five (85 per cent) said they have, or would, take at least one of these actions.
Just one in four (25 per cent) said they have or will defer their repayments, despite lacking confidence about meeting their repayments.
The Australian Banking Association has confirmed that deferrals on mortgages and other credit products won’t affect credit scores, so long as individuals were on top of their repayments before the pandemic.
Mortgagors could also consider refinancing their home loan at this time to save money and take advantage of interest rates being so low.
Many lenders are competing for new customers, so consumers could get a much more competitive rate, in addition to potentially accessing greater flexibility and benefits from a different lender.
Among respondents whose household incomes have been reduced, 64 per cent have, or will be, ceasing or reducing their credit card usage, while 77 per cent would also draw on their savings.
Among the other ways Aussies will be freeing up cash, 10 per cent said they have accessed, or will access, their superannuation.
The Government announced a new measure to allow for early access to superannuation to help individuals affected by COVID-19.
Eligible recipients – those who are unemployed, receiving Government benefits, were made redundant or have had their hours reduced by 20 per cent or more – can apply to withdraw up to $10,000 this financial year and a further $10,000 in FY20-21.
 “Hundreds of thousands of people are experiencing financial hardship at this time, with around six million workers expected to receive JobKeeper payments, while many others are uncertain about their financial security. The Government and financial institutions have introduced a range of relief measures to help Aussies under financial pressure, stay afloat during these difficult times,” said Comparethemarket.com.au spokesperson Abigail Koch.
“At comparethemarket.com.au, we have created an informative COVID-19 FAQ Hub to help people better understand how the pandemic could affect their home loans, credit cards, insurances and a range of other household costs.”
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Up to 45 per cent of household incomes to be reduced by pandemic: Comparethemarket.com.au

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With the number of homeless older Australians aged over 65 jumping by 30% between 2011 and 2016, new AHURI research examines the life ‘shocks’ and other factors behind these rising numbers. 
The research, entitled 'An effective homelessness services system for older Australians’, undertaken for AHURI by researchers from University of South Australia and Swinburne University of Technology, examines the issues that affect older Australians who are experiencing homelessness.
It found that one in every seven Australians experiencing homelessness is aged 55 years or over.
"Poverty is a root cause of homelessness. Having a lower income than needed to sustain a decent, healthy and secure life creates a marginal position in the housing market that can result in the loss of safe, affordable accommodation, which can then lead to homelessness," said Professor Andrew Beer of the University of South Australia, one of authors of the report.
"With an ageing population and a decline in home ownership, we can expect further growth in rates of homelessness amongst older Australians."
The report identified three broad groups of older Australians who become homeless: those with conventional housing histories who experience a financial or other ‘shock’ late in life, such as eviction from rental housing, relationship breakdown, the death of a spouse, or a decline in their health; those who had experienced long-term social exclusion and had previously experienced homelessness; and people with transient work and housing histories.
The research identifies that the current system of supporting older people who experience homelessness is fragmented, too poorly resourced and unable to provide long-term solutions.
According to the report, out of 1,518 homelessness services nationally only three are specialist services for older people. 
The research also reveals that services set up to provide welfare support for people are difficult to navigate, particularly the online welfare system which acts as an impediment to older homeless people gaining access to the support they need. 
"These life shocks lead many older Australians into homelessness, and into contact with the income support system for the first time," said Professor Beer.
"For some, learning to deal with Centrelink and its policies and processes is an additional challenge that exacerbates the grief and shame of finding themselves without a secure home."
The report identifies the provision of affordable, secure and appropriate housing must be central to any solution to homelessness amongst older Australians.
Other solutions include funding to enable aged-care providers to build specialist facilities for older homeless clients, and reviewing, increasing and indexing the Homelessness Supplement for aged-care providers.
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Homelessness a growing concern among older Australians

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Roughly 70% of Australians do not trust the big banks, with half of that number losing confidence after their failure to pass on recent rate cuts, according to new research from comparison site Mozo. 
One in four big bank customers have left or intend to move to a non-four lender, equating to roughly 4.9 million Australians. 
“Australians are making it crystal clear that they are not impressed with the big banks, with 62% saying the big four are putting profits before customers,” said Kirsty Lamont, Mozo Director. 
“The days of bank profiteering are well and truly coming to an end with online and smaller banks offering ultra-competitive rates and minimal fees.
“Mozo’s latest research indicates that there could be a major shift in where Australians choose to do their banking.
“Online home loan lenders currently hold a paltry 6% of the population but the tide could be turning, with half of Australians saying they would consider making the move.” 
The biggest roadblock for online banks appears to be a lack of knowledge, with 38% of Australians saying they didn’t know enough to make the switch, while nearly one in four felt that an online lender offered no special incentives compared to a bank with a branch. 
Over 30% of Australians felt they needed to sit down with a mortgage expert to discuss their home loan.
“It’s understandable that Australians are exhibiting a level of trepidation regarding applying for a home loan online, given it may well be the largest sum of money they borrow in their life,” said Lamont.
“That said, an online lender can easily save you tens of thousands of dollars over the course of your loan as well as offering the same level of security as any major bank.
“Our research found that nearly 20% of big four customers felt their money was ‘secure’ with the big four.”
The big banks sluggish response to the flurry of rate cuts affected the trust of those aged 25-34 years old the most with one in four losing trust after the rate cuts.
They were also the age group most likely to move with 46% saying they intended to do so. One in five Australians surveyed admitted they didn’t know enough about the rate cuts to make an informed decision about their banks. 
When Australians were quizzed about the benefits of getting a home loan with an online lender instead of a traditional bank, lower interest rates were perceived to be the greatest benefit followed closely by lower fees, however, one in four Australians believe there was no advantage to opting for an online provider. 
“Only 19% of Australians believe that the big banks are doing what is necessary to stay afloat in the wake of the rate cuts, leaving a massive 80% unimpressed with big bank behaviour. The writing is on the wall for many borrowers and now is the time to find the most competitive rate on the market and reap the rewards,” says Lamont.
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One in four big bank customers have left or intend to leave after failure to pass on rate cuts

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New research by ING reveals pot plants are the second Australians’ most valuable treasured household possessions ranking second with an average value of $13,198 in homes where they’re cherished.
Artwork topped the list with an average value of $13,787. 
The research also found VHS tapes and DVDs are the most sought after collectable items for thieves with 753,000 Aussies having had these items stolen from their home.
A pricey loss given, on average, Aussies value their treasured VHS tapes and DVD collections at $4,363.  
Most valuable treasured household possessions 
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Item
</td>
<td valign="top">
Average value per household 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Artwork 
</td>
<td valign="top">
$13,787
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Pot plants 
</td>
<td valign="top">
$13,189
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Watches/ jewellery
</td>
<td valign="top">
$8,787
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Designer goods and clothing 
</td>
<td valign="top">
$7,793
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Special collectables/ antiques 
</td>
<td valign="top">
$7,914
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Most sought after collectable items for thieves 
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Item
</td>
<td valign="top">
Number of Aussies that have had item stolen from their home 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
VHS or DVD collections 
</td>
<td valign="top">
753,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Stamp collections 
</td>
<td valign="top">
527,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Musical instruments 
</td>
<td valign="top">
659,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Family portraiture/ vinyl collection/ vintage clothing/ early edition books and comics
</td>
<td valign="top">
517,000 (have had at least one of these items stolen from their home) 
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
ING’s head of Insurance, Cathy Duncan says people need to consider the value of their home and contents.
“When you’re trying to estimate the value of your home and contents most of us probably think about the costs of rebuilding and the value of our big ticket items like furniture, electronics and jewellery,” said Duncan.
“What this research tells us is that it’s actually just as important to remember to consider the collective value of smaller items too. For example, the accumulative costs of all the pot plants in and around your house and your entire DVD collection. These things can really add up.” 
More than a quarter (26%) of Australians have had their home broken into at least once, one in three (32%) say they’ve had items stolen, and overall, 11% say at least one rare or collectable item was stolen from their home. 
“It’s so easy to think that just because something hasn’t happened to you it won’t,” said Duncan.
“That’s probably why almost a quarter (24%) of Australians (according to the research) do not currently have any form of home and or contents insurance. 
“But the reality, according to this research, is that there’s a one in four chance your home could be broken into.”
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Pot plants rank among Australians' most treasured household possessions

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Housing affordability, or rather the lack of it, is likely to persist in some capital cities because of a demand-supply imbalance and could have a big economic impact for Australia, according to the Committee for Economic Development of Australia’s latest report.
The issue of land supply needs greater focus, says the non-profit organisation's Housing Australia report 
“The great Australian dream of owning your own home has been around for more than half a century but with high house prices in some parts of Australia, there has been much debate about whether it will continue," CEDA Research and Policy Committee chairman, Professor Rodney Maddock said.
“The aim of this report is to provide a holistic review of housing in Australia and look at some of the drivers,” he added.
CEDA’s research shows that barring any major economic jolts, demand pressures are likely to continue over the next 40 years and supply constraints will continue. This is particularly the case in capital cities with a growing population and where an increasing proportion of Australia’s population are expected to reside. 
“Often the debate around housing affordability is centred on a few topics such as foreign investment, negative gearing and interest rates," said Professor Maddock.
“What the CEDA report highlights is that while these might be some of the factors, the issue is far more complex and without changes now, could have longer run consequences."
The research also considers the impact of housing affordability on the poorest citizens and includes a recommendation by Dr Judith Yates that every year Australia needs 20,000 new homes that those on low income can afford.
“Prolonged housing affordability issues will result in more people entering retirement without owning their home and low socio-economic households pushed to outer or regional areas where transport infrastructure is poor and job prospects are lower,” said Professor Maddock.
“In the long term this could have budget implications for governments as more people become reliant on government assistance.”
The report also suggested that the current structure of land supply may inadvertently make it in developers interests to drip feed dwellings into the market. 
“CEDA’s report looks at the UK as an example where developers bid high to obtain land for development and it is then in the interests of developers to build slowly to take advantage of rising market prices,” he said.
“This is an area that should be further examined and CEDA’s report highlights that a key difficulty in drawing policy recommendations for Australia is a lack of consistent and rigorous data available on supply of land for development in Australia and its correlation to housing prices.”
CEDA’s recommendations include:
<ul>
<li>Relaxing planning restrictions, particularly those imposed by local councils, making them more consistent and allowing for increased density.</li>
<li>Developing consistent planning and funding models for transport infrastructure to better connect new housing developments to the various employment hubs.</li>
<li>Improving protections for long-term renters.</li>
<li>Further relaxing rules around the means testing of income received from downsizing in situations where it results in greater housing density.</li>
<li>Moving towards annual land tax in place of transaction taxes on housing such as stamp duty.</li>
<li>Taxing a larger component of capital gains.  </li>
</ul>
“CEDA’s report in June on the service sector highlighted the majority of workers in Australia are engaged in service industries and this is growing. However, the shift to a service economy has contributed to a larger population living in our cities and coupled with overall population growth through migration, has impacted housing demand, especially in Sydney and Melbourne,” he said.
With most Australians choosing to live in our major cities, it is likely the trend of more people living in apartments and more long-term renters will become permanent and this means increased protection for renters is needed.
“In addition, we also need to ensure better transport and infrastructure to accommodate increased inner city density and to connect outer suburban developments to employment hubs.”
“Easing some of the tax incentives to invest in or retain residential property may also assist.”
He suggested that policies need to be in sync across the different tiers of government to address the issues.
“Despite the outlook of continued growth there are options for government to ease pressure and ensure long term negative consequences are reduced.”
For more information, <a href="https://www.ceda.com.au/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Is it time to let go of the great Australian dream? CEDA

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Consumer is king when it comes to Australian retail, according to new research by Colliers International that says disruption is driving down prices and bricks and mortar retailers are focusing on customer experience.
The highly anticipated entrance of Amazon along with the entry of other offshore retailers such as TK Maxx and JD Sport mean there is more choice for Australians, says Colliers’ latest Retail First Half report.
“The Australian retail sector is undergoing immense change and disruption, forcing retailers and landlords to refine their strategies and align better to consumer preferences,” said Daniel Lees, research director at Colliers International. 
New platforms such as Amazon Marketplace will provide more depth to the current online offerings, and also deliver end to end online sales infrastructure that was previously out of reach for many small to medium-sized domestic retailers, said Lees.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/23/RetailSnapshot.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/23/RetailSnapshot.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/23/RetailVacancy1.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/23/RetailVacancy1.png" alt="">
“The Australian consumer remains quite healthy, which explains why so many offshore retailers have been executing entry strategies over the past few years. We have a high income population which is concentrated within a relatively small number of capital cities and that population is growing. Internet penetration is also high, and many Australians are well travelled with a strong appetite to adopt global brands and fashion.”
The wealth effect delivered through the housing market has created a strong spending environment, and there is a wide range of products to choose from, says the report.
While the battle between online and stores will effect Australian retail, unlike the US, which has seen major store and mall closures, Australia is well placed to integrate disruptors into society, it adds.
“Compared to their American counterparts, Australian landlords realise that they cannot compete with online retail on price alone and have therefore invested heavily in experiences and place making to create an experience for consumers available exclusively in-store,” said Michael Bate, head of Retail at Colliers International.  
“Australian landlords are also exceptionally good at developing an engaging tenancy mix and creating environments where retailers can reach optimal performance.
“We’re now starting to see some of the best tenancy mixes we’ve ever seen in Australia. Landlords are seeing new opportunities to capture shopper attention with increased food and beverage options and providing unique in-store and in centre experiences.”
Although retail sales figures have been trending lower over the past three years, much of this can be explained through supermarket wars, turnaround strategies within department stores and corporate failures within the household goods sector, says the research report.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/24/AvgeRetailVacancy.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/24/AvgeRetailVacancy.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/23/AusSentiment.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/23/AusSentiment.png" alt="">
Sentiment levels have been remarkably resilient in the wake of several recent geopolitical events and the composition of the labour market has been improving in recent data releases. Price increases of major items such as food and fuel have also been subdued. 
“Although there is perceived general shift in the market towards online retailing, there are certain sectors of the market where a physical retail presence is and always will be essential,” said Julian Demetrovics, director of Retail Tenant Advisory at Colliers International. 
“Retailers who specialize in the higher end of the market, particularly in food, fashion and jewellry are now spending more time and capital on their fitouts to focus on maximizing the customer experience.”
From an investment perspective, retail remains an attractive asset class, with transaction volumes only restricted by market stock levels, it said.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/23/AusRetail.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/23/AusRetail.png" alt="">
Sydney CBD
The average Sydney CBD gross face rents are forecast to increase to 1.9 percent to $10,966 per sqm by the first quarter of 2018, according to Colliers. Sydney CBD retail floor space supply will peak at almost 80,000 sqm in 2020 due to the refurbishment of the Harbourside Shopping Centre.
The CBD office market is in the midst of a development phase that commenced with Barangaroo in 2015 and will continue out to 2021 and beyond with projects from Brookfield, AMP and Lendlease. As these projects reach completion, the standard of retail on offer improves, with Sydney consumers reaping the rewards in the form of laneway activation, new brands and more sophisticated dining experiences. 
Melbourne CBD
In Melbourne, offshore purchaser interest continues to strengthen, with tenant demand for central locations driving up prime face rents with limited prime grade support volumes. 
Changing demands of the consumer in the fashion world has seen a shift particularly in choice towards casual sportswear. The rise in popularity of active wear has not only put pressure on retailers to create a segment of sport apparel but struck as a game changer in the footwear industry, says Colliers.
Brisbane CBD
In Brisbane, prime grade high street retail gross face rents head northward, placing the Brisbane CBD as the third most expensive region across Australia, according to Colliers.
Improved business conditions, strong population growth and record tourism numbers are assisting retail trade turnover across the South East. Strong population growth along with increased tourism numbers is driving rents in Brisbane’s CBD and assisting retail trade within the city’s centre.
Adelaide 
South Australia has seen sustained growth in retail sales, with vacancy on Rundle Mall falling. Sales activity is primarily driven by private investors. Retail sales have primarily been driven by strong growth in café and restaurants, Food and other retail categories. 
Perth
Major centres in Perth are undertaking works to reposition assets, with CBD rents adjusting as demand softens. Over the next decade Perth’s retail sectors landscape could look distinctly different than it does today. The creation of ‘destination’ complexes by larger shopping centres poses significant risks to less significant centres.
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