The sought-after Latent Defects Insurance policy, offering off the plan apartment buyers peace of mind for 10 years post-completion, has made its way to Sydney’s harbourside. Boutique developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/toohey-miller">Toohey Miller</a> has secured this insurance for its newly launched Elizabeth Bay development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/barncleuth-square-elizabeth-bay-4-4a-barncleuth-square-elizabeth-bay-nsw-2011">Barncleuth</a>. This marks the developer’s second project in the area, following the success of No. 1 Onslow Place.

Latent Defects Insurance, offered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/resilience-latent-defects-insurance">Resilience Insurance</a>, provides cover for structural or waterproofing defects in new apartment buildings. It is a policy that only the developer or builder can take out, not the apartment purchaser.

Located just&nbsp;off Macleay Street, one of Sydney’s most desirable high streets, Barncleuth offers a rare collection of only 10 residences. With just two per floor, each oversized floorplan has been designed by SJB specifically for the owner-occupier.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140184 project_image_fid=356342]

The five-storey building captures views over Rushcutters Bay and Paddington, blending contemporary brickwork with the expressive silhouettes of its Art Deco neighbours.

Inside, the residences, designed by David Hicks, prioritise generous scale and enduring quality, with a mix of two- and three-bedroom layouts. Expansive terraces and cross-ventilated interiors maximise light and airflow, while sustainable features such as a green roof and locally sourced materials reflect SJB’s commitment to long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140184 project_image_fid=356341]

Developer Toohey Miller, led by Nick Couloumbis, says the design aims to bring lasting quality to an area long celebrated for its apartment heritage.

"It's a stone's throw from the best restaurants in Sydney. Some people call it the Soho of Sydney," Couloumbis told Apartments.com.au when the project was approved.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140184 project_image_fid=356337]

By securing <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/resilience-latent-defects-insurance">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance</a>, Barncleuth joins a growing group of premium Sydney projects adopting the gold standard in building protection.&nbsp;

The cover, provided before construction begins, ensures any hidden structural or waterproofing defects are repaired immediately, without lengthy litigation or fault disputes.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent said the product has been a catalyst for renewed confidence in the off the plan market.&nbsp;

“Ultimately what we’re trying to do is build better buildings consumers can trust. When buyers take possession, they have full insurance protection from day one, for 10 years,” Nugent explained.

Unlike traditional policies such as strata or construction insurance, Resilience LDI is a first-resort, strict liability policy, meaning repairs are covered immediately without needing to prove negligence. Coverage extends to foundations, load-bearing walls, and waterproofing, the elements most critical to long-term structural integrity.

Regarded construction firm Jasara has been appointed to deliver Barncleuth. They are forecasting an early 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140184]

Joel Robinson

Toohey Miller brings 10-year Latent Defects Insurance to Elizabeth Bay as Barncleuth apartments launch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/golden-sedayu">Golden Sedayu</a> has unveiled plans for the next phase of its landmark $4 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/burswood-point-saintly-entrance-burswood-wa-6100">Burswood Point</a> project, just 3.5km from the Perth CBD at the Belmont Racecourse site.

The Local Development Plan Application has been lodged for a world-class mixed-use hub (Precinct B) on the previously untouched 2.5km stretch of Swan River foreshore.

Designed by Skidmore, Owings &amp; Merrill (SOM), recognised for their work on the world’s tallest skyscraper, Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the One World Trade Centre in New York, Precinct B will feature 15 buildings, offering a mix of residential and commercial spaces including a shopping centre up to 30,000 sqm in size.

Complementing this, an internationally acclaimed five-star hotel, and a high-end pedestrian-friendly retail boulevard with vibrant day-and-night retail, dining, and entertainment venues, will provide exciting new ways for Perth residents to connect with the riverfront.

This latest milestone signals continued construction and expansion momentum across Perth’s premier riverfront community, which is set to attract local, national and international visitors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142314 project_image_fid=263304]

The masterplan features 110,000 sqm of public open space, which is comparable to other Perth landmarks including inner-city Langley Park and South Perth foreshore. The riverside precinct will be brought to life through a visionary landscape concept by globally renowned architectural practice Grant Associates.

With an impressive international portfolio, including Gardens by the Bay and Funan Mall in Singapore and Barangaroo South in Sydney, the firm brings expertise in creating environments that harmonise with surrounding amenity.

At 38 hectares, Burswood Point is one of the largest urban development projects ever undertaken in Australia, and one of Perth’s most transformative mixed-use developments.

Golden Sedayu Managing Director Andrew Sugiaputra said the company was working closely with SOM, Grant Associates and the Government of Western Australia to ensure Burswood Point’s design responds sensitively to its surroundings, reflecting and enhancing the character, history, and natural features of the local environment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142314 project_image_fid=1817]

“West Australians enjoy a privileged outdoor lifestyle and the Swan River is central to their enjoyment,"&nbsp;Sugiaputra said.

"We’re proud to be creating something truly spectacular and unique for the city, a place that feels alive from sunrise to sunset, a place where people can stay, shop, dine, and celebrate life on the river."

Precinct B builds on the outstanding success of Burswood Point’s first residential stage, which has been met with exceptional market demand. Somerset Residences, a two- tower luxury apartment development, and the exclusive riverfront homes collection are under construction and selling fast. As the number of Perth houses listed for sale remain at or near record lows, Burswood Point will deliver 4,500 new homes over the next 10 years.

“Golden Sedayu is dedicated to delivering on our promises,"&nbsp;Sugiaputra added.

"Our clients can buy with confidence, knowing that the price is fixed throughout construction. In an industry that has faced challenging market conditions, we’re proud to provide our clients complete peace of mind and confidence in the value of their investment."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=142314]

Golden Sedayu reveals next 15 buildings in Perth's $4 billion Burswood Point precinct

Rising at the base of The Remarkables,&nbsp;diversified New Zealand developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>'s Mountain Oak Apartments presents a foothold in Frankton, one of Queenstown’s most dynamic and fast-growing locales.&nbsp;

Surrounded by soaring alpine scenery and year-round tourism drawcards, Mountain Oak Apartments is a masterplanned precinct that perfectly balances accessibility with lifestyle amenity.

<img alt="Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Frankton has emerged as a strategic growth zone just seven kilometres from Queenstown’s CBD, popular among both residents and investors for its proximity to the airport, the region’s two premier ski fields, Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, and an expanding network of shops, services, and recreation options. The apartments enjoy immediate access to the popular Market Street dining hub, as well as Five Mile Shopping Centre and the seasonal Remarkables Market, where locals gather for fresh produce and artisan goods.

The location also places residents near the gateway to South Island adventures. Scenic trails, golf courses, and Lake Wakatipu’s edge are within easy reach, while the historic village of Arrowtown, renowned for its preserved gold rush-era charm and walking routes, is a short drive away. Local transport connectivity is supported by the nearby airport and arterial roads, ideal for frequent travellers and short-term guests alike.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Living_WEB.jpg?VersionId=3LglY20Jp_MAzQYdvwODRWvtjL.cZcqI" />

Tourism-driven demand underpins strong investment fundamentals in Queenstown, with a noted shortage of short- and long-term accommodation stock. Mountain Oak’s 365-day visitor accommodation consent directly addresses this need, offering a rare opportunity to serve Queenstown’s dual population of holidaymakers and hospitality workers.

Construction of the 141 residences began in June 2025, with completion anticipated by mid-2027. Apartments range from one-bedroom to penthouses, with pricing from NZ$639,000. Dual-key options and low-maintenance finishes support a flexible rental model with strong gross return potential.

Staff Writer

From slopes to markets: Mountain Oak connects residents to the best of Queenstown

Deicorp is doubling down in the Hills Showground Station Precinct, the rapidly growing area surrounding the Castle Hill Metro and one of the state’s largest transit-oriented urban renewal sites.

Having launched Hills Showground Village several years ago, and now about 70 per cent through its build, Deicorp has brought another mini-masterplan to market just a few streets away.

The developer has now released the first of 873 residences in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/showground-pavilions-castle-hill-3-andalusian-way-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Showground Pavilions</a>, five new buildings located just 500 metres from the Metro, which connects Castle Hill residents to Martin Place in around 37 minutes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150067 project_image_fid=351416]

The mix includes one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a limited release of garden terrace homes with studies.

&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">Turner Studio</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/group-gsa">GroupGSA</a>, the residences are configured around a network of landscaped courtyards and podium-level gardens, with additional rooftop terraces offering views across the district.&nbsp;Communal amenities include a 3,500 sqm public park, playgrounds, shaded seating areas and walking and cycling paths.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150067 project_image_fid=351416]

Interiors feature flexible layouts with oversized living areas, deep balconies, SMEG kitchen appliances and floor-to-ceiling glass to maximise light and airflow.&nbsp;

Many apartments include a study space, while select residences offer private outdoor areas. A total of 44 apartments have been designated as affordable housing for key workers, such as nurses, teachers and police officers.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150067 project_image_fid=351413]

On top of its strong connectivity to the city, Deicorp has delivered significant new amenity to the area. The developer recently opened the 9,500sqm, four-level retail precinct at Hills Showground Village, which includes 26 specialty retailers and a 1,400sqm public plaza, creating a new community hub for shopping, dining, fitness, and everyday convenience. Castle Towers, one of Australia’s largest shopping centres, is also just one Metro stop away.

Between Hills Showground Village and Showground Pavilions, Deicorp is delivering more than 1,300 new homes to the rapidly growing Castle Hill precinct, representing a $2 billion investment in the suburb.

Showground Pavilions is one of several Metro-linked projects in Deicorp’s pipeline, joining developments at Tallawong Village, Zetland, Five Dock, Macquarie Park and Crows Nest.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150067]

Deicorp expands Castle Hill footprint with Showground Pavilions launch

The completion of Melrose Park Village marks a significant achievement in the evolution of one of Sydney’s largest urban renewal projects, developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a>.&nbsp;

Located in the city’s north-west, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/melrose-park-village-2a-2f-appleroth-street-nsw-2114">Melrose Park Village</a> represents the fourth completed stage in the broader $5 billion Melrose Park masterplan, which will ultimately bring over 6,000 new homes, a town centre, new schools and 52,000 sqm of green open space.

The completion of Melrose Park Village delivers 421 apartments across six buildings ranging from six to thirteen storeys, all centred around a 4,000 sqm landscaped courtyard designed as a communal “urban backyard” for residents.&nbsp;

The project is now 96 per cent sold, with 14 premium three-bedroom apartments remaining in the final building. Each offers two car spaces with prices starting from $1.259 million.

Alex Grujovski, Project Director, Apartment &amp; Mixed-Use Developments, said “Sekisui House Australia is proud to celebrate the completion of Melrose Park Village, which stands as a sustainable and connected community in the heart of Sydney’s north-west.&nbsp;

“This project represents a pivotal step in our long-term vision for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a>, reflecting our commitment to creating communities that blend nature, technology and human connection. Since 2020, we have delivered over 1,075 apartments across four stages, each designed to enhance wellbeing, connectivity and convenience through exceptional architecture and resident-focused amenities.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150065 project_image_fid=356089]

Residents benefit from an array of lifestyle facilities including a 4,000 sqm internal park, rooftop gardens and BBQ areas, wellness amenities such as an infrared sauna, yoga studio and gymnasium, plus co-working spaces, pet wash facilities, EV charging stations and a resident shuttle bus.&nbsp;

Sustainability remains at the core of the precinct with rooftop solar, smart energy meters, air and water filtration systems and groundwater reuse technology supporting efficient resource use.

Melrose Park Village was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ajc-architects">AJC Architects</a>, who have led the design of the broader Melrose Park masterplan since inception, developing architectural principles that continue to guide the precinct’s evolution.

Michael Heenan, Design Lead at AJC Architects said the design is completely generated by AJC’s Urban Backyard concept.

"At the heart of Melrose Park Village is a generous green courtyard, a shared backyard for all residents. We designed it at the scale of a local park, a place for families to live, play and grow, capturing the spirit of the Australian backyard.”

The courtyard features nature play areas, a climbing wall and open lawns for social and recreational use. Heenan added that the team’s approach to smart city design, carbon capture and sustainability guided every aspect of the project.&nbsp;

“Stage 4 reflects our belief that density can improve liveability. By integrating architecture, landscape and open space, we have created a model for sustainable urban living that feels contemporary and distinctly Australian.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150065 project_image_fid=356088]

&nbsp;

Melrose Park Village was delivered in partnership with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/parkview">Parkview Constructions</a>, a trusted builder with whom Sekisui House Australia has delivered thousands of apartments across Sydney over the past 15 years.&nbsp;

Upon completion, Melrose Park will deliver more than 6,000 dwellings, 52,000 sqm of open green space featuring over 1,400 mature trees, new transport connections, a town centre set to open in 2026 and Melrose Park High School which is currently under construction and due to open in Term 1 2027.&nbsp;

This milestone marks another major step towards realising Sekisui House Australia’s vision to transform a former industrial site into a future-ready neighbourhood for over 12,000 residents.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150065]

Completion of Melrose Park Village marks a major step forward in $5 billion masterplan

RLB Crane Index

Residential cranes across Australia's capitals and major cities are still at near peak levels,&nbsp;Rider Levett Bucknell (RLB's) Q1 2023 Crane Index found.

The residential index representing the number of cranes on residential projects across the country has eased off very slightly from 172 index points to 171 index points. The results are similar to those recorded in the 2015-2017 property boom.

Over the last six months, 292 new cranes were added to new development sites, but 300 were removed from projects nearing completion. There are 835 cranes up across the country, a 3.8 per cent decrease from the 868 cranes in RLB's last edition of the report. The 835 cranes in the Q1 2023 report is still the second highest number of cranes seen since the inception of the RLB Crane Index in 2012.

<img alt="RLB Crane Index" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f73284eb-c266-4b5d-9663-32255f086672" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-04-11%20at%2010.17.24%20am.png?VersionId=GiuC9xZZuTCaDW1zSSI5DYMyGPEqszPQ" />The number of cranes across Australia. Image credit: RLB Crane Index Q1 2023

Domenic Schiafone, RLB’s Oceania Director of Research and Development said the continuing strong number of cranes observed correlates with the strong national activity numbers.

<h2>Large fall in crane numbers in Melbourne CBD, but residential cranes holds firm</h2>

Melbourne recorded a fall of eight per cent in the Q1 2023 RLB Crane Index.

Across Melbourne, a total of 84 new cranes were added to projects, and 101 cranes removed, representing a net loss of 17 cranes across the region, bringing the current number of cranes to 189, down from 206 recorded in the previous edition.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4522 project_image_fid=208465]

There were two less cranes for residential projects across Melbourne compared to the Q3 2022 Crane Index. Approval values grew over the 2022 calendar year, up 1.5 per cent.

"The apartments sub-sector saw total approvals grow by 42.8 per cent to $6.1 billion, although still below CY 2017 peaks,"&nbsp;Schiafone noted in the report.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173913]

The report found that inner-city remains the region with the highest prevalence of cranes, accounting for 44 per cent of all of Melbourne’s cranes.

Residential cranes in Melbourne account for 53 per cent of crane activity.

To read more about Melbourne crane activity, click here.

<h2>Sydney still the main driver of crane count, but residential tapers off</h2>

Sydney continues to be the main driver of the crane count. Of the 836 cranes sighted across Australia, 365 were in Sydney.

But the residential pipeline in Sydney is shrinking. Approvals for houses were up 2.3 per ent, but apartment approvals were down by 23.1 per cent.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108896 project_image_fid=180669]

The residential sector saw a total of 78 cranes removed and 65 new cranes added, bringing the overall number of cranes in the sector down to 246 cranes.

Inner Sydney (CBD &amp; Surrounds) saw the addition of only 18 cranes, against the removal of 27 cranes. This brings the total number of cranes down to 89 cranes. Losses were almost entirely attributed to the residential sector, which recorded a net decrease of 13 cranes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9302 project_image_fid=188219]

Sydney's crane activity is still the second highest on record.

To read more about Sydney's crane activity, click here.

<h2>South East Queensland reaches a new high</h2>

The crane count in Brisbane declined slightly during Q1 2023, down by five cranes from 35 to 30.

The residential sector continues to be the largest in Brisbane, accounting for 39 per cent of all cranes (30 of 77 cranes), slightly lower than the 43 per cent share recorded in the previous count.

Schiafone says it is interesting to note that that the current 39 percent share that the residential sector maintains in Brisbane is significantly lower than both Melbourne and Sydney, where residential cranes account for 53 per cent and 67 per cent of each city respectively.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112020 project_image_fid=198798]

While Brisbane recorded a net loss in overall crane numbers, the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast have performed stronger, bringing the total number of cranes across South East Queensland to a new high of 153 cranes.

Queensland should see a strong pipeline of activity over the next few years, with approval values for 2022 growing 6.2 per cent compared to 2021.

To read more about the South East Queensland crane activity, click here.

Over the last six months, 292 new cranes were added to new development sites, but 300 were removed from projects nearing completion

RLB Crane Index

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