<p>S&amp;S Projects is boosting its investment at Rainbow Bay to more than $1 billion after the prolific Gold Coast developer acquired a new site for $20.25 million and immediately laid plans for a new luxury apartment project in the sought-after precinct.</p>

<p>The site, which is the company’s fifth acquisition at Rainbow Bay in the past four years, will be home to the company’s largest project to date after delivering 3 sold-out projects and construction progresses on Radia worth a combined $215m.<br />
S&amp;S Projects is currently finalising plans for its latest strategic acquisition, a 1,518 sqm site located 209-213 Boundary Street in Coolangatta, with a development application expected to be lodged within weeks.</p>

<p>The luxury residential development will build on the company’s highly successful projects at Rainbow Bay, comprising Flow, Awaken, Esprit and Radia, with Radia currently under construction by Hutchinson Builders.</p>

<p>“We have been unflinching in our commitment to Rainbow Bay and the transformation we have helped drive in this incredible part of the Gold Coast, which is among the city’s most desirable residential locations,” said S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun.</p>

<p>“Our fifth project will reflect the best of what we have done so far to create a lifestyle precinct that is second to none.”</p>

<p>The latest development, which has yet to be named, is proposed to accommodate 88 luxury apartments in a design that will immerse residents in a unique wellness lifestyle that expands on the legacy of S&amp;S Project’s earlier developments at Rainbow Bay.</p>

<p>The development will feature an expansive rooftop garden and wellness centre with a resort- style pool, among a host of lifestyle amenities planned for residents.</p>

<p>“Rainbow Bay, with its beautiful, protected beach and alongside one of the world’s best surf breaks at Snapper Rocks, is the natural wellness heartland of the Gold Coast,” said Gedoun.</p>

<p>“We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden.”</p>

<p>The latest acquisition comes as S&amp;S Projects is at the completion of Esprit and construction continues on Radia, which are part of their significant portfolio undertaken by the company at Rainbow Bay since 2022.</p>

<p>The $215 million Radia, which comprises 38 apartments, is currently the flagship development by S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay which is expected to be completed in 2027.</p>

<p>Jayde Pezet, of Pezet Matheson, which has managed sales and marketing for S&amp;S Projects across their Gold Coast portfolio, emphasised the developer’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.</p>

<p>“S&amp;S Projects continue to elevate the benchmark of luxury with each development," Pezet said.</p>

<p>“We have worked with S&amp;amp;S on their 4 other projects in Rainbow Bay and their approach reflects a team that is constantly learning, refining, and pushing the standard higher.</p>

<p>“Their hyper-local knowledge and deep expertise within the luxury property sector are what truly set them apart, allowing them to deliver projects that feel both globally sophisticated and authentically connected to their coastal environment”</p>

<p>S&amp;S Projects plans to officially launch its latest project at Rainbow Bay in the second half of this year.</p>

<p>“As we embark on our largest project yet, we have pulled out all stops to create another landmark development that truly reflects the relaxed southern Gold Coast lifestyle,” Gedoun added.</p>


Joel Robinson

S&S buys $20m Rainbow Bay site for fifth beachside apartment project

<p data-end="268" data-start="86">Japandi, an emerging design trend that combines Scandinavian functionality with Japanese rustic minimalism, remains relatively untested in Australia’s residential development market.</p>

<p data-end="545" data-start="270">As developers look to differentiate their projects and offer something distinct to buyers, Brisbane-based developer Lantona has embraced the hybrid style for its recently launched Toowong apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/koya-residences-6-josling-street-toowong-qld-4066">Koya Residences</a>, with early response to the design proving positive.</p>

<p data-end="1014" data-start="547">Lantona entrusted Red Door Architecture and interiors practice Luma Design Co with delivering the Japandi brief. The approach blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality, emphasising warm, restrained interiors, natural materials and clean lines. Drawing on the Japanese concept of <em data-end="855" data-start="844">wabi-sabi</em> (beauty in imperfection) and the Scandinavian principle of <em data-end="922" data-start="915">hygge</em> (comfort and cosiness), it creates serene, uncluttered and sustainable living environments.</p>

<p data-end="1200" data-start="1016">These design principles are expressed throughout the Josling Street development, both in its exterior form and across the 40 one-, two- and three-bedroom residences within.</p>

<p data-end="817" data-start="541">[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366229]</p>

<p>Koya reflects a deliberately scaled approach, with the five-storey form designed to align with the surrounding residential streetscape rather than dominate it.</p>

<p>“Koya is conceived as a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings. Every decision, from material selection to spatial planning, has been guided by long-term liveability and enduring relevance,” the developer said.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366243]</p>

<p>Positioned within an established inner-west neighbourhood, the development sits near riverfront parklands and the Bicentennial Bikeway, while remaining within walking distance of Toowong Village and multiple public transport options connecting to the CBD, St Lucia and West End.</p>

<p>Lantona said the location was central to the project’s conception, pointing to Toowong’s balance of green space, transport access and proximity to major education institutions.</p>

<p>“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> combines river access, walkability, immediate CBD connection and a strong educational presence. That balance made it the obvious setting for Koya.”</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366230]</p>

<p>Communal amenity is concentrated on the rooftop, where a shared retreat will include a pool, dining areas and outdoor spaces oriented towards neighbourhood and city views. The design allows for both private use and small gatherings, extending the living environment beyond individual apartments.</p>

<p>Koya enters the market at a time when smaller-scale developments are becoming less common in established suburbs, with many recent projects in the suburb shooting for the sky.</p>

<p>In a nod of confidence,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/brisbane-builders">Brisbane Builders</a>&nbsp;has already commenced construction on the building, which is slated for completion in early 2027. Keenan &amp; Byrne is marketing Koya.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150787]</p>


Japandi-inspired Koya Residences launch in Toowong

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:ca872054-bfe3-4cc5-a2c8-b373d4dfeafb-2" dir="auto">
<p>A completed Castle Hill apartment development is returning to market with an uncommon level of financial backing, positioning it as one of the more secure options for buyers in Sydney’s north-west.</p>

<p>Skyview in Castle Hill, originally developed by Top Place and now overseen by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, is being relaunched following a full remediation process. Central to its repositioning is a substantial financial reserve designed to provide ongoing protection and reduce uncertainty for incoming purchasers.</p>

<p>At the core of this offering is an $11 million bond secured during the project’s remediation phase, negotiated by former NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler. With less than $4 million required to complete the works, approximately $7.2 million remains in reserve, with around 15 years left on the term.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359134]</p>

<p>Rather than a typical insurance-backed structure, the remaining funds are held as cash, creating a readily accessible financial buffer should any future building issues arise. The structure is intended to provide buyers with an added layer of certainty, differentiating the development from more conventional apartment offerings.</p>

<p>Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure provides a level of security not typically seen in apartment developments.</p>

<p>“The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers,” Huxley said.</p>

<p>“Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind.”</p>

<p data-end="884" data-start="551">[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359135]</p>

<p>The remediation process has now been completed in full, with no active rectification orders or outstanding directives linked to the project on NSW Government registers. This outcome reflects the broader tightening of building oversight across the state, while also highlighting the project’s transition into a completed, compliant asset.</p>

<p>In a market where many buyers remain cautious about apartment quality, initiatives like this are designed to restore confidence, giving purchasers greater certainty and a stronger sense of security in their investment.</p>

<p>Equitifund has since acquired the remaining apartments and is managing their reintroduction to the market. With the works finalised and a significant financial reserve in place, the project now presents with a markedly different risk profile compared to its initial release.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359137]</p>

<p>Beyond the added security, the development is positioned in one of Castle Hill’s more established pockets. The Gay Street address places it within close proximity to Castle Towers, one of the country’s largest retail centres, as well as Castle Hill Metro Station, which now connects directly to the broader Sydney Metro network.</p>

<p>Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said buyer demand in the area continues to be driven by access to transport and amenity.</p>

<p>“Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre,” Hamblett said.</p>

<p>“There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living.”</p>

<p data-end="1889" data-start="1564">[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359145]</p>

<p>The apartments also enter the market at a relatively accessible price point for the area, with two-bedroom configurations starting from $995,000 and rental demand for similar stock reaching around $900 per week. This combination of pricing, connectivity, and completed status is expected to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors seeking lower-risk entry into the Hills District apartment market.</p>

<p>For eligible buyers, a limited 3.50 per cent p.a. two-year fixed interest rate is currently available through Equitifund’s lending partners, providing an additional layer of affordability.</p>

<p><em>EquitiCredit Pty Ltd ACN 676 363 769 holds ACL 559289 and provides credit assistance. Finance is arranged through EquitiCredit and funded by its lending partners. Interest rates are subject to change and eligibility criteria apply. Terms, conditions, fees and charges may apply. This is not financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. Prospective buyers should seek independent financial advice.</em></p>

<p data-end="2131" data-start="1891">[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]</p>
</section>


Castle Hill apartments offering unmatched buyer protection through dedicated fund

<p data-end="236" data-section-id="18vtkcf" data-start="134">A State-Assessed Rezoning Proposal for the Kurnell Peninsula is now on public exhibition, setting out a plan to deliver up to 4,300 homes alongside new retail, tourism and public open space on a 210-hectare coastal site.</p>

<p data-end="643" data-start="460">The proposal, backed by the Minns Labor Government, would transform a former sand mining area along Captain Cook Drive into a mixed-use precinct delivered over approximately 20 years.</p>

<p data-end="844" data-start="645">In addition to housing, the plan includes more than 7,000 sqm of retail and commercial space, new community facilities and approximately 116 hectares of open space, equating to more than half the site.</p>

<p data-end="844" data-start="645"><img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce1c6567-1df0-4de0-9fe5-a76be0367834" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.11.51%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=dbbTmYaJvROA5fkQbgaxis8cmFwtpB5_" /></p>

<hr data-end="849" data-start="846" />
<h2 data-end="902" data-section-id="ony3l3" data-start="851">Rezoning framework enables mixed-use development</h2>

<p data-end="1094" data-start="904">The rezoning application seeks to amend planning controls under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Precincts—Central River City) and the Sutherland Shire Local Environmental Plan 2015.</p>

<p data-end="1356" data-start="1096">Its primary objective is to enable a broader range of land uses across the site, including residential, employment, tourism and community uses, while also formalising environmental protections and land management outcomes .</p>

<p data-end="1597" data-start="1358">The proposal has progressed through the state-led rezoning pathway after being identified as a project of regional significance, supported by several years of technical studies and agency consultation .</p>

<p data-end="1713" data-start="1599">Development would occur in stages, aligned with the progressive closure and remediation of the existing sand mine.</p>

<hr data-end="1718" data-start="1715" />
<h2 data-end="1768" data-section-id="krwii9" data-start="1720">Master plan structured around three precincts</h2>

<p data-end="1955" data-start="1770">The accompanying urban design report outlines an indicative master plan that divides the site into three primary precincts, anchored by a town centre in the western portion of the site.</p>

<p data-end="2150" data-start="1957">The town centre is planned as the first stage of development, located on land that has already been remediated. It is intended to accommodate higher-density housing, retail, and community uses.</p>

<p data-end="2150" data-start="1957"><img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4bfd5873-4847-4105-b220-0a30c96f5573" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.20.09%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7aVaSsZLAc6mElSH4g6Ct5bGsNxZcnPL" /></p>

<p data-end="2300" data-start="2152">Additional precincts extend toward Bate Bay and Boat Harbour, with built form responding to environmental conditions and proximity to the coastline.</p>

<p data-end="2490" data-start="2302">The design framework identifies distinct local character areas, with the master plan structured to reflect “unique natural qualities” across the site.</p>

<hr data-end="2495" data-start="2492" />
<h2 data-end="2544" data-section-id="1vitwqn" data-start="2497">Open space forms core of the design approach</h2>

<p data-end="2660" data-start="2546">A key component of the proposal is the allocation of approximately 116 hectares to open space and ecological land.</p>

<p data-end="2676" data-start="2662">This includes:</p>

<ul data-end="2846" data-start="2678">
	<li data-end="2702" data-section-id="d96caj" data-start="2678">Three district parks</li>
	<li data-end="2723" data-section-id="17y6uz6" data-start="2703">Nine local parks</li>
	<li data-end="2741" data-section-id="14hui00" data-start="2724">Sports fields</li>
	<li data-end="2778" data-section-id="ts7psx" data-start="2742">Coastal and ecological corridors</li>
	<li data-end="2846" data-section-id="agduax" data-start="2779">Two kilometres of publicly accessible beachfront along Bate Bay</li>
</ul>

<p data-end="2982" data-start="2848">The urban design report positions this open space network as central to the structure of the development, rather than ancillary to it.</p>

<p data-end="3116" data-start="2984">It is intended to support ecological regeneration, provide recreational amenity and create a connected network across the peninsula.</p>

<p data-end="3342" data-start="3118">The plan includes north–south ecological corridors, expanded wetland systems and pedestrian and cycling links designed to connect residential areas to the coastline and open space areas .</p>

<hr data-end="3347" data-start="3344" />
<h2 data-end="3381" data-section-id="ql66rt" data-start="3349">Housing mix and affordability</h2>

<p data-end="3467" data-start="3383">The proposal includes approximately 4,300 dwellings across a range of housing types.</p>

<p data-end="3563" data-start="3469">This includes high-density apartments, medium-density housing, townhouses and seniors housing.</p>

<p data-end="3688" data-start="3565">Affordable housing provision is identified at approximately 240 dwellings, alongside a smaller component of social housing.</p>

<p data-end="3872" data-start="3690">The master plan emphasises housing diversity, with the intent of accommodating a range of household types and age groups within the development.</p>

<p data-end="3872" data-start="3690"><img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d4baba4d-b5b0-4a86-bcad-5d319b036184" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.11.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=udYFz0q8tjEPR3pmKLHRSFRJN4dKakPO" /></p>

<hr data-end="3877" data-start="3874" />
<h2 data-end="3919" data-section-id="rgckdv" data-start="3879">Built form controls and height limits</h2>

<p data-end="3994" data-start="3921">Proposed building heights across the site range from three to 12 storeys.</p>

<p data-end="4173" data-start="3996">These controls are set out within the rezoning application and are intended to manage visual impact, maintain view corridors and ensure compatibility with the coastal landscape.</p>

<p data-end="4387" data-start="4175">Floor space ratios and height limits are applied across different parts of the site to reflect varying environmental conditions and proximity to open space and the coastline .</p>

<p data-end="4543" data-start="4389">Higher density is generally concentrated within the town centre, with lower-scale development toward the coastal edge and environmentally sensitive areas.</p>

<hr data-end="4548" data-start="4545" />
<h2 data-end="4588" data-section-id="1minlda" data-start="4550">Retail, tourism and employment uses</h2>

<p data-end="4688" data-start="4590">In addition to residential development, the proposal includes retail, commercial and tourism uses.</p>

<p data-end="4704" data-start="4690">This includes:</p>

<ul data-end="4896" data-start="4706">
	<li data-end="4775" data-section-id="1jrun76" data-start="4706">Approximately 7,000–9,800sqm of retail and commercial floor space</li>
	<li data-end="4803" data-section-id="10kyifw" data-start="4776">A full-line supermarket</li>
	<li data-end="4830" data-section-id="fz1hdg" data-start="4804">Food and beverage uses</li>
	<li data-end="4896" data-section-id="1aqg2fj" data-start="4831">Tourism accommodation, including hotel and short-stay options</li>
</ul>

<p data-end="5045" data-start="4898">The proposal also identifies employment outcomes, with the development expected to support jobs both during construction and in ongoing operations.</p>

<p data-end="5137" data-start="5047">These uses are concentrated within the town centre and key activity areas across the site.</p>

<hr data-end="5142" data-start="5139" />
<h2 data-end="5172" data-section-id="162x2kt" data-start="5144">Infrastructure and access</h2>

<p data-end="5279" data-start="5174">The proposal includes upgrades to Captain Cook Drive, which provides the primary access to the peninsula.</p>

<p data-end="5362" data-start="5281">These upgrades are intended to improve traffic flow and support emergency access.</p>

<p data-end="5405" data-start="5364">The transport strategy also incorporates:</p>

<ul data-end="5529" data-start="5407">
	<li data-end="5433" data-section-id="fanquy" data-start="5407">Internal road networks</li>
	<li data-end="5469" data-section-id="o6y80y" data-start="5434">Walking and cycling connections</li>
	<li data-end="5529" data-section-id="jgraft" data-start="5470">Proposed public transport routes and bus stop locations</li>
</ul>

<p data-end="5718" data-start="5531">The rezoning report includes detailed analysis of transport, flooding, and infrastructure requirements to support the staged development of the site .</p>

<hr data-end="5723" data-start="5720" />
<h2 data-end="5769" data-section-id="14urh3" data-start="5725">Environmental and cultural considerations</h2>

<p data-end="5923" data-start="5771">The site is identified as having environmental and cultural significance, including areas of ecological value and Aboriginal archaeological sensitivity.</p>

<p data-end="6002" data-start="5925">The proposal includes measures to protect and enhance these areas, including:</p>

<ul data-end="6230" data-start="6004">
	<li data-end="6056" data-section-id="1pzyouo" data-start="6004">Retention and regeneration of coastal vegetation</li>
	<li data-end="6100" data-section-id="bjn2vz" data-start="6057">Strengthening of biodiversity corridors</li>
	<li data-end="6148" data-section-id="1bpeyoj" data-start="6101">Protection of riparian systems and wetlands</li>
	<li data-end="6230" data-section-id="lg0cka" data-start="6149">Integration of cultural interpretation and recognition of Indigenous heritage</li>
</ul>

<p data-end="6409" data-start="6232">The urban design report also outlines opportunities for incorporating Indigenous cultural elements into public spaces and landscape design.</p>

<hr data-end="6893" data-start="6890" />
<h2 data-end="6908" data-section-id="w7rk5f" data-start="6895">Next steps</h2>

<p data-end="6997" data-start="6910">The proposal is currently on public exhibition, with submissions open to the community. Feedback received during this period will inform the Department of Planning’s assessment of the rezoning.</p>

<p data-end="7223" data-start="7106">If approved, the rezoning would establish the planning framework for future development applications across the site.</p>

<hr data-end="6893" data-start="6890" />
<h2 data-end="6908" data-section-id="w7rk5f" data-start="6895">What the NSW Government says</h2>

<p>Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the planned closure of the sand mine and remediation of the Kurnell Peninsula presents an exciting opportunity to transform the area.</p>

<p>“This proposal envisions a vibrant new beachfront community with thousands of new homes, jobs and great open space in the Sutherland Shire. I encourage the community to have their say during the public exhibition period. Feedback from the community will play an important role in the assessment of the proposal.”</p>


Sydney's newest beachfront city: NSW Gov to unlock 4,300 new homes on Kurnell peninsula

<p>A long-awaited transformation of a former industrial site in Holroyd has been given the green light, with the NSW Government approving the $1.2 billion Crescent Parklands masterplan that will deliver more than 1,200 new homes just south of Parramatta.</p>

<p>The State Significant Development approval clears the way for a large-scale mixed-use precinct at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-crescent-street-holroyd-nsw-2142">1 Crescent Street</a>, replacing an underutilised site with a coordinated residential community anchored by new open space, retail, and commercial uses.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> for WA-based developer Tiberius, the approved scheme comprises seven buildings arranged across two precincts. In total, the development will deliver 1,227 apartments, including 201 allocated as affordable housing, alongside approximately 2,500 sqm of retail and 5,000 sqm of commercial space within a mixed-use podium.</p>

<p><img alt="Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver 1,200+ homes in major Holroyd transformation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1cc82dd2-8184-4b86-8665-90653147820d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crescent%20buildings.png?VersionId=2ZmVDc_Rfc4AzQ6ShzZJlvdZnACLerVM" /></p>

<p>The project is structured as a masterplanned precinct rather than a standalone tower. Buildings 1 to 4 will rise from a shared podium with shop-top housing, while Buildings 5 to 7 are positioned closer to the northern park interface as residential flat buildings. The built form has been carefully modulated to balance density with amenity, with the design resolving building separation, solar access, and wind impacts at a precinct scale.</p>

<p>A significant focus of the design is the activation of Crescent Street and the integration of public domain. The submission notes that “individual townhouses [were] removed for community based functions to Crescent Street to increase activation and surveillance,” reinforcing a more urban and publicly engaged street edge. Retail, commercial tenancies, and resident amenity spaces are concentrated along this frontage and within the podium to support day-to-day activity.</p>

<p>The landscape strategy underpins the project’s identity, with a network of pedestrian connections, landscaped corridors, and open spaces linking the site internally and to its surroundings. The design prioritises permeability, delivering “increased uninterrupted flow between spaces for pedestrian access” and improved connections through to the adjoining parklands.</p>

<p><img alt="Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver 1,200+ homes in major Holroyd transformation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19282454-ab2f-4e2c-866f-4b35cf4283d4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crescent%20masterplan.png?VersionId=JQdWGYI5B5R1lzmK4omYOp_8KLPkT4Bv" /></p>

<p>Buildings within the western precinct are oriented toward the park, shaping a residential offering defined by proximity to open space. The design describes this approach as creating apartments “immersed in nature with apartments facing the park,” positioning the landscape as a central organising element of the masterplan.</p>

<p>The broader architectural response addresses both infrastructure and context, with taller elements capturing long-range views toward Parramatta while setbacks and separation distances mitigate impacts on surrounding residential areas. Sustainability initiatives, including solar optimisation, cross-ventilation, and integrated landscape systems, are embedded across the scheme.</p>

<p>Located approximately one kilometre south of Parramatta CBD, the 3.6-hectare site is bounded by Crescent Street, Woodville Road, and Holroyd Sportsground. It benefits from strong access to public transport, including nearby bus routes and train stations, and sits within a rapidly evolving corridor earmarked for increased residential density. The design also strengthens connections between surrounding green spaces, including Holroyd Sportsground and Parramatta Parklands.</p>

<p>The approval follows several years of planning, including a rezoning process that enabled significant uplift in height and density across the site. With determination now secured, Crescent Parklands is positioned to play a major role in delivering new housing supply within Greater Parramatta’s growth area.</p>


Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver over 1,200 homes in major Holroyd transformation

Residential Vacancies

<html><body>
<p>Vacancies have remained high in Melbourne, according to SQM Research's national residential rental vacancy report for February.</p>

<p>"Melbourne remains weighed down by underwhelming demand for rental accommodation," said Louis Christopher, managing director of SQM Research.</p>

<p>Melbourne’s vacancy rate rose from 4.4% to 4.5%</p>

<p>It was down from the 4.7% last December, which was the highest level since SQM Research started measuring data in 2005. </p>

<p>Melbourne’s vacancy rate ranks as the highest for a capital city in the nation, with the withdrawal of international student tenants hitting the city hard, Christopher noted.</p>

<p><img alt="" height="506" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/vacancy_rates_sqm.jpg" width="1378"></p>

<p>The inner Melbourne CBD vacancy rate stands at 7.5%, down from 9.4% last October.</p>

<p>Sydney’s overall vacancy rate rose 0.1% to 3.3%. </p>

<p>The Sydney CBD vacancy rate dropped to 6.3% in February 2021, down from a high of 14.8% in May 2020, indicating a return to life for Sydney city. </p>

<p>Elsewhere, in Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Darwin and Hobart, the vacancy rate was below 1%.</p>

<p>Brisbane’s vacancy rate also remained tight, down to 1.5% in February from January 2021.</p>

<p>SQM’s calculations of vacancies are based on online rental listings that have been advertised for three weeks or more compared to the total number of established rental properties.</p>

<p>"The figures for Melbourne and Sydney would be disappointing for existing property investors," Christopher said.</p>

<p>"Normally, vacancy rates in these two cities fall over February, in part due to international students starting their semesters.</p>

<p>"But given the ongoing closure of the international border, the seasonal increase in rental demand has not occurred this year. </p>

<p>"This year will favour tenants in the inner cities but will also very much remain a landlord’s market in regional Australia.</p>

<p>“Elsewhere, we are still recording strong interest from tenants in larger properties in outer suburban locations as well as wider regional Australia. </p>

<p>'Investment property owners in Darwin or Perth have also enjoyed a strong year of rental returns.”</p>

<p>Over the month to 12 March 2021, capital city average asking rents fell 0.4% for houses to $550 per week and 0.2% for units to $412. </p>

<p>Reflecting accommodation oversupply, Melbourne and Sydney unit asking rents fell by 1.4% and 0.4%, respectively over the past month.</p>

<p>House rents also fell in Sydney by 1.2% while Melbourne house asking rents were flat. </p>

<h2><strong>Recently listed VIC properties:</strong></h2>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=29908]</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=26935]</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=29909]</p>

<p> </p>
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Melbourne also posted a 12% drop in asking unit asking rents over the year to March 2021

jchancellor

Melbourne rental vacancies remain high given international student absence: SQM

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<p>SQM Research has revealed the national residential rental vacancy rate increased by 0.1% over the month of December 2020. The total number of vacancies Australia-wide is now 76,658 vacant residential properties. This time last year, the national vacancy rate was higher at 2.5%.</p>

<p>The rise for the month was predominantly driven by Melbourne and to a lesser extent, Sydney. Brisbane, Perth and Hobart remained stable. While Adelaide recorded a minor decrease of 0.1% in December.</p>

<p>Melbourne’s vacancy rate increased to 4.7% in December and continues to be the highest vacancy rate in the nation. This time last year, Melbourne’s vacancy rate was low at 2.5%. Sydney’s vacancy rate increased by 0.1% to 3.6%.</p>

<p>The surplus of rental property in Melbourne and Sydney’s CBDs have declined, Melbourne CBD vacancy rate now stands at 8.7%, down from 9.1% in November. Sydney CBD vacancy rate has declined to 7.8% in December, down from 9.5% in November.</p>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2020_vacancy_data_sqm.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="211" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2020_vacancy_data_sqm.jpg?itok=1BaufZu8" width="580"></a>

<figcaption><em>Source: SQM Research</em></figcaption></figure><h2>Asking Rents</h2>

<p>Over the month, Capital City average asking rents decreased 0.2% for houses and 0.5% for units for the week ending 4 January 2021 to record asking rents of $539 per week for houses and $406 per week for units.</p>

<p>However the majority of capital cities recorded increases in both house and unit asking rents, with Darwin recording the highest increase of 4.1% over the month for houses and 4.0% in unit asking rents. Hobart recorded a 3.1% increase in house rents but a 3.6% decline in unit rents.</p>

<p>Sydney and Melbourne recorded declines in both house and unit asking rents over the month, 0.8% and 0.1% respectively for houses, and decreases of 0.6% and 1.9% respectively, for units rents, which weighed on the weighted results for the capital cities.</p>

<p>Canberra recorded increases in house rents of 1.4% but unit rents declined by 0.7%. Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth house and unit rents also increased over the month.</p>

<p>Year on year, capital city average asking rents declined for both houses and units – 2.7% and 7.1% respectively. Sydney in particular recording a high 10.3% decline in units and 7.6% decline in houses in December 2019. Melbourne’s asking rents also declined year on year, 4.8% for houses and 8.7% for units.</p>

<p>Darwin’s year on year house rents saw a significant 27.3% growth and Perth house rents also increased by 12.0% and units 9.3% growth over 12 months.</p>

<p>" It’s clear Sydney and Melbourne apartment investors were the losers of 2020 with rents and prices falling. However, if you owned an investment property in Darwin or Perth, or indeed regional Australia, you have had one of the best years ever," Louis Christopher, Managing Director of SQM Research summarised.</p>
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Sydney and Melbourne recorded declines in both house and unit asking rents over December, 0.8% and 0.1% respectively for houses, and decreases of 0.6% and 1.9% respectively, for units rents

urban.com.au

Melbourne & Sydney unit asking rents down over 8.5% in 2020

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<p><span style="font-size: 12.16px;">Most indicators suggest that Melbourne has moved into first place as the city creating the most jobs and growth.</span></p>
<p>That said, the New South Wales Treasurer handed down a 2017-18 Budget yesterday revealing that the state's finances are in rude health.</p>
<p>Each month I've been tracking the unprecedented stamp duty take resulting from Sydney's property boom, a gift which has kept on giving.</p>
<p>It was reported yesterday that the state beat projections in 2016-17 to hit another surplus of $4.5 billion, with NSW now in a negative net debt position, boasting a net worth totalling more than a quarter of a trillion dollars, and with enough left over to set up a $15 billion Future Fund.</p>
<p>To complete the virtuous circle the state now plans to unleash a towering $72.7 billion spend on infrastructure, incorporating an impressive range of projects, a further record $7.7 billion for health infrastructure, and $4.2 billion to build 26 new schools and to fund upgrades.</p>
<p>This is a positive move for Sydney, and the harbour city will need to get these projects moving to fill the hole left by any coming downturn in the rate of apartment building.</p>
<p>Melbourne vacancies keep falling</p>
<p>We seem to have reached an inflection point in this property cycle.</p>
<p>Lower interest rates spurred record numbers of property investors into the market since 2012.</p>
<p>But now regulators and banks are winding back interest-only loans and have introduced tougher serviceability measures and higher mortgage rates for investment products.</p>
<p>And this is at a time when demand for rentals has never been higher, with employees changing roles and locations more frequently than in times past, and a record boom in international visitors and students.</p>
<p>While the rate of dwelling construction has been impressive, I recently mused <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/2017/06/is-sydney-heading-for-rental-crisis">here</a> whether the number of available rental properties will keep up with demand this year and next. </p>
<p>Vacancy rates declined across much of Australia in May, with the national vacancy rate dropping from 2.4 per cent to 2.2 per cent. </p>
<p>Vacancies remained super-tight in Hobart (0.6 per cent) and Canberra (1 per cent), while in Sydney the vacancy rate declined to just 1.8 per cent. </p>
<p>Vacancy rates ticked down in Brisbane, Perth, and Darwin in May, though from elevated levels in the case of Perth and Darwin, where median asking rents continue to slide. </p>
<p>In Melbourne the vacancy rate is almost in freefall, halving from more than 3 per cent at the end of 2014 to a 7-year low of just 1.5 per cent. <span style="font-size: 12.16px;"> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12.16px;">Inflation impact?</span></p>
<p>SQM's asking rents index shows rents already rising for apartments in Sydney (up 3.5 per cent over the year to June 20), and quite sharply for apartments in Melbourne (up 5.9 per cent).</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/22/SQM1-1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><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/2017/06/22/SQM1-1.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The vacancy rates figures suggest that rental prices may soon level off in the resources capitals, while there is mounting evidence of a tightening rental market in the two most populous capital cities. <span style="font-size: 12.16px;"> </span></p>
<p>If rents do start to rise again then this has implications for monetary policy since rents form an important part of the consumer price index (combined with rising energy prices, a strengthening rental market could be enough to scope out further rate cuts).<span style="font-size: 12.16px;"> </span></p>
<p>On the other side of the ledger, oil prices have declined to their lowest level in 9 months. </p>
<p>Overall, the figures suggested that the rental markets in the weakest cities are approaching their cyclical nadir, while most other markets ex-Brisbane are either tight or tightening. </p>
<p>Most notably, the feared oversupply in Melbourne has not materialised - if anything the number of available rentals is failing to keep pace with demand. </p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank"><span class="s2">AllenWargent</span></a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span class="s2">blogger</span></a>.</span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s3"><em>His latest book is </em><a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank"><span class="s2"><em>Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</em></span></a><em>.</em></span></p>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Melbourne vacancies crash to a 7-year low

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<h3 class="post-title entry-title"> </h3>
<div id="post-body-7040816109967032059" class="post-body entry-content">
<div>SQM Research reported that year-on-year vacancy rates are slightly higher.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Sydney and Melbourne reported vacancy rates of 1.8 percent and 2 percent respectively.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In Brisbane, where there is still a significant pipeline of inner city apartments set to hit the market, vacancy rates are 2.9 percent. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Perth's vacancy rate was steady from the previous month at 5 percent, while the Darwin market appears to be have steadily improved with vacancy rates at 3.1 percent. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The tightest markets are Hobart (0.6 percent) and Canberra (1.1 percent), and asking rents have increased accordingly in these cities. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/10/19/SQM1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<br><div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/10/19/SQM1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Smoothing the data shows that over the past year vacancy rates have been relatively flat in Sydney and Melbourne, but vacancies have generally been elevated in the resources states. </div>
<br><div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/10/19/SQM2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/10/19/SQM2.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>This has been reflected in soft rents in Perth and Darwin.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Despite the apartments pipeline asking rents for units are higher year-on-year in each of the three most populous cities, particularly in Sydney (+4.4 per cent) and Melbourne (+5.1 per cent) as the new stock comes online. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Concluded SQM Research:</div>
<div> </div>
<div><em>"Looking forward, vacancies are likely to rise in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney over 2017 as more new high-rise apartment developments come onto the market. </em></div>
<div><em> </em></div>
<div><em>However, we maintain that the oversupply issue appears to be constrained to concentrated areas such as the inner-city regions. </em></div>
<div><em> </em></div>
<div><em>We are not as confident we will see a contagion affect where the whole capital city market is affected."</em></div>
<div><em> </em></div>
<div>
<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
</div>
</div>
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Vacancies up slightly year-on-year: Pete Wargent

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<div><span>National residential vacancies fell to 2.5% during January, with year on year results showing vacancy levels above seasonal trends, according to SQM Research.</span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/02/17/VRJan2016.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div>
<br><img src="/images/2016/02/17/VRJan2016.png" alt=""><br><br><span>Canberra had the largest fall, down 0.5 percentage points over the month of January, according to SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher.</span>
</div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><span>"Darwin and to a lesser extent Sydney, also recorded monthly falls, with Darwin vacancies falling from 4.2% in December 2015 to 3.8%. Despite this, both Darwin and Perth continue to record an alarming number of vacancies, particularly when you consider the number of vacancies recorded this time last year (January 2015)," he said.<br><br>"Overall, vacancies for January fell in line with the seasonal trends associated for this time of year. We believe the seasonality observed has much to do with the end and start of tertiary studies which normally see a significant movement of students. </span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><span>"Another trend observed in the data is the recovery of the Canberra rental market, which for about four years was in a slump. I would suggest that on the back of falling vacancy rates and rising asking rents that the rental slump is now over for the ACT."<br><br></span></div>
<div><span>According to SQM Hobart recorded the fastest rental rises for the capital cities, with asking rents rising 5.8% for houses, while units underperformed, falling by 2.3%. Average Hobart house rental is $337 a week, with units $274 a week.<br><br><br></span></div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/02/17/b3cb5918-34f8-4781-a837-6f74ce7101bc.png" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></div>
<div><span><img src="/images/2016/02/17/b3cb5918-34f8-4781-a837-6f74ce7101bc.png" alt=""></span></div>
<div> </div>
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

Falling vacancies recorded for January 2016: SQM Research

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<p><span>The number of residential vacancies nationally picked back up slightly during November, in line with seasonal trends, latest figures by property research house SQM Research show.</span></p>
<p><span>The vacancy rate was 2.3% nationally, and there were 71,737 vacancies, the data shows. </span></p>
<p><span>Vacancies appear to be following the common seasonal trends expected at this time of year, where rental accommodation tends to become more available for a variety of factors.</span></p>
<p><span>The most predominant of these is the departure of university students from their regular rental accommodation over the four-month summer break.</span></p>
<p><span>Over the last year vacancies in both Perth and Darwin have almost doubled, with November figures showing a yearly rise of 59% for Perth.</span></p>
<p><span>Most other capital cities remained stable year-on-year, with Hobart and Melbourne recording yearly declines.</span></p>
<p><span>The falls in Hobart most likely relate to the recovery in its local economy, in turn being benefited from the lower Australian dollar helping its local tourist industry, says SQM.</span></p>
<p><span>Year-on-year results for Sydney reveal a tight residential market, with a vacancy rate of 1.7% based on 10,045 vacancies in November.</span></p>
<p><a href="/images/2015/12/15/eb23b8cc-baf5-4976-8155-0351a86438d8.png" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
<p><span><img src="/images/2015/12/15/eb23b8cc-baf5-4976-8155-0351a86438d8.png" alt=""></span></p>
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