Lower North Shore developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> has secured development approval for its ultra-luxury residential project on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/34-burran-avenue-mosman-nsw-2088">dress circle Burran Avenue</a>.

The project, just&nbsp;50 metres from Balmoral Beach within Mosman’s prestigious Golden Triangle, will commence construction in early 2026,&nbsp;following the successful completion of its nearby Hampden Mosman project.

Lodged in April 2025 and approved in September 2025, the development will comprise three whole-floor residences, each designed to capture panoramic harbour views through Sydney Heads.

<img alt="34 Burran Avenue, Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f4c7816-0ac8-4ef7-be0a-8ef23b693b68" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/BURRAN%20EV01%20R04%20option%201%20%281%29.jpg?VersionId=gVzI8pT6_K59Nhzaz0FLEvY6Kj9Kc8Fg" />

Set on an elevated 550 sqm corner site at the junction of Burran Avenue and Stanton Road, the building has been designed to sit within Balmoral’s natural slope. The façade mixes stone and metal cladding with angular forms, while oversized terraces and full-height sliding doors create a connection between interior living spaces and outdoor entertaining areas.

The delivery team from Abadeen’s Hampden Mosman project, which includes construction company Reform Projects and interiors company Mathieson, has been retained to bring the same level of execution and craftsmanship to Burran Avenue.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/platform-architects">Platform Architects</a> has been appointed project architect, bringing extensive experience from recent luxury residential projects in Manly, Fairlight and Freshwater.

&nbsp;

Justin Brown, Executive Chairman and Founder of Abadeen, said sites of this calibre, this close to Balmoral, are incredibly rare.

“Burran Avenue is an extraordinary site; its location, its scale and its outlook make it truly one of a kind. Receiving DA approval marks an exciting milestone for Abadeen."

"We’re proud to be moving forward with an exceptional team to deliver a project that will set a new standard for ultra-luxury living on Sydney’s Lower North Shore. Construction is planned to commence in early 2026, and interest is already strong from discerning local buyers who recognise the uniqueness of this address."

Brown anticipates prices will set new Mosman benchmarks above $20 million. Sales are expected to launch in March 2026.

Joel Robinson

Abadeen approved for Mosman's priciest apartments

Lifestyle developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gurner">GURNER™ Group</a>, in partnership with Costa Property Group, has announced plans to reimagine Cunningham Pier in Geelong, one of Victoria's most recognisable heritage landmarks.

The announcement follows the City of Greater Geelong’s release of its Draft Geelong Waterfront Master Plan, which seeks to revitalise the waterfront with new energy, tourism, and investment. GURNER and Costa Property Group’s vision aligns with the Council’s ambitions to create a vibrant, connected, and economically powerful precinct for the community.&nbsp;

The future of Cunningham Pier will draw inspiration from Sydney Harbour’s luxury waterfront residences through to Dubai’s sculptural pier-edge towers, blending architectural excellence with &nbsp;resort-style living, hospitality, and public amenity.&nbsp;

The concept, described as “Saint Moritz on the Sea”, is envisioned to include:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Six-star hotel accommodation and services&nbsp;</li>
	<li>World-class restaurants, bars, and public spaces&nbsp;</li>
	<li>High-end residential offerings&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Entertainment and cultural venues&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Potential cruise ship port facilities, integrating Geelong into the global travel network&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The transformative project aims to become a magnet for tourism, investment, and innovation, while &nbsp;ensuring continued public access and connection to Corio Bay’s pristine waterfront.&nbsp;

Cunningham Pier has been operated by Costa Property Group for more than 15 years, with the City of Greater Geelong expressing strong support for strategic commercial partnerships that unlock &nbsp;tourism-led economic development for the region’s fast-growing population.&nbsp;

Tim Gurner, Founder &amp; Executive Chairman, GURNER™ Group, said the project is a "once-in-a-generation opportunity to put Geelong on the global map," adding that their version will be of what icons like the Opera House, Story Bridge or Empire State Building have done for other great cities.

“We’ll be working hand-in-hand with the Mayor, Council, the local community, and State Government to deliver something truly iconic that positions Geelong on the world stage. This project brings together everything we’ve built our brand on – world-class design, hospitality, &nbsp;lifestyle, and experience – all in one place. From six-star hotels and restaurants to the possibility of a &nbsp;new cruise ship terminal and luxury residences, the vision is extraordinary.”&nbsp;

City of Greater Geelong&nbsp;Mayor Stretch Kontelj said he welcomes the "bold and inspiring vision reimagining our beloved Cunnigham Pier as a global destination."

"This ambitious plan and the opening of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre next year have the potential to take our already world-class waterfront to even greater heights.”

Sydney Harbour, Dubai pier towers, to influence Gurner's Cunningham Pier, Geelong development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a> is one of Melbourne's longest standing architecture firms.

Founded in Melbourne in 1853 by Joseph Reed, the firm began as Reed &amp; Barnes and has evolved through various partnerships before adopting the Bates Smart name in the 20th century. With a continuous presence spanning more than 170 years, the practice has played a pivotal role in shaping Melbourne’s architectural identity.

In the 19th century, Bates Smart designed several of Melbourne’s enduring landmarks, including the Royal Exhibition Building (1880), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Melbourne Town Hall. The firm’s influence continued into the 20th century with notable works such as Ici House (1958), considered Melbourne’s first modern skyscraper and a milestone in post-war Australian architecture.

One of their landmark designs was&nbsp;The First Church of Christ, Scientist, at 336-340 St Kilda Road. The building, which is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, was designed by Bates, Peeble and Smart with construction completed in 1922. Architecturally, the building is significant as a rare example of early twentieth century classicism applied to a religious building. Historically, the building is significant as the first church of the Christian Science movement.

Melbourne developer Time &amp; Place decided to bring Bates Smart back to the area to design their next residential apartment project, Park Modern.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138453 project_image_fid=2138]

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/park-modern-south-melbourne-1-middleton-lane-south-melbourne-vic-3205">Park Modern</a>, on one of the largest island sites on the Melbourne CBD fringe, bordered by Dorcas Street, Wells Street, and Middleton Lane, will comprise two sculptural towers. It is being positioned as a design-forward response to evolving owner-occupier preferences in the Domain precinct.

Tim Price, Director at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/time-place">Time &amp; Place</a>, says&nbsp;Bates Smart have got a footprint on this city, probably like no other architect.

"It’s a really nice kind of next chapter story, that they created from a design perspective so long ago," Price told Apartments.com.au.

Park Modern will be the third time Time &amp; Place has worked with Bates Smart, having successfully designed and delivered Collins House and Opera on St Kilda Road together.

The brief focused on creating a built form that would feel contextually appropriate while offering a contemporary evolution of inner-city apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138453 project_image_fid=2137]

The focus for Park Modern is squarely on owner-occupiers.

“It’s not always about downsizing," Price says.

"Sometimes it’s just about creating a space which is easily maintained, lock up and leave, reflecting people’s aspirations, whether they’re entertainers, big dining room spaces, big open terraces, they’re important parts of any design consideration.”

The building includes a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as penthouses, with layouts and floor plans designed to suit a broad demographic. The architecture has been shaped to capture&nbsp;view corridors to the Botanic Gardens, Port Phillip Bay and the CBD skyline.

Each apartment has been oriented to maximise natural light and provide a clear outlook, elements often cited by owner-occupiers as key criteria.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138453 project_image_fid=351806]

Rather than defaulting to a generic luxury offering, the amenity strategy at Park Modern reflects specific insights into how residents want to live. The ground floor will include co-working areas, wellness facilities, and a concierge-led lobby that blends indoor and outdoor design cues.

“Wellness has become a more thoughtful consideration, not just gyms or lap pools, but things like magnesium plunge pools, saunas, daybeds, and studio spaces for Pilates and the regular cardio workout,” says Price.

One notable inclusion is a substantial porte-cochère, a covered vehicle drop-off zone integrated into the site plan. It’s a feature rarely seen in inner-urban developments and speaks to the team’s emphasis on ease of arrival and departure for residents and guests.

A display suite for Park Modern is now open by appointment, giving prospective buyers an early look at the project.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138453]

100 years on, Bates Smart returns to South Melbourne's Domain Precinct to design Park Modern

One of the most significant beachfront projects ever proposed for the small suburb of Miami on the Gold Coast, has taken a major step forward.&nbsp;Monaco Property Group has secured approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nalu-miami-122-marine-parade-qld-4220">NALU</a>, a $500 million development comprising just 45 ultra-luxury residences on the iconic former Nobby’s Outlook site.

Acquired by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/monaco-property-group">Monaco Property Group</a> in 2024 for $70 million, the rare 7,238 sqm Marine Parade parcel boasts more than 80 metres of uninterrupted ocean frontage.

With approvals now secured, Monaco Property Group will move NALU into its delivery phase. The project has been designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, who collaborated with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/ldg-landscape-architecture">LDG Landscape Architecture</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/tom-mark-henry">Tom Mark Henry Interiors</a>&nbsp;to create the low-rise building, its landscaping, and interiors.

<img alt="NALU" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3fdf578e-7cc4-4b17-bbc2-ba853522a5d8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/122_Marine_Parade_002.jpg?VersionId=zFhJWVzX0jmCO.5iIIxNELImHesTjWS4" />

Residences will range from 237 sqm layouts to beachfront homes exceeding 1,400 sqm.

At the heart of the project is a 2,200 sqm lifestyle precinct with a bathhouse, fitness centre and resort-style pool, elevated by a concierge service.

Jonathan Grasso, Co-Founder of Monaco Property Group, said the council approval marks an exciting milestone for NALU, which will launch in Q1 2026.

“The project will now progress toward construction, working alongside our world-class collaborators to bring NALU to life," Grasso said.

“Our vision is to create a legacy project for the Gold Coast, one that not only honours the history of the site but also elevates its future, setting a new standard for coastal living in Australia. NALU embodies the pinnacle of design and location and will stand as an enduring icon of prestige and liveability.”

<img alt="NALU" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6ae8545b-87ca-4dea-90ed-ac273ec6515d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Image7.jpg?VersionId=Wnmie4bu3x2WQonnG4Pwmh39NdZVKeOV" />

Originally developed in the 1970s as Nobby’s Outlook and later refurbished in 2019 as Nalu, the property has long held a place in the local community’s coastal identity. The new vision will build on this legacy, creating luxury residences that capture ocean views while fostering a lifestyle defined by wellness, connection, and ease.&nbsp;

Beyond its residential offering, NALU will deliver significant economic benefits to the Gold Coast through job creation and opportunities for local suppliers and contractors. Construction is anticipated to commence in early 2026, with completion expected in Q3 2028.

Monaco Property Group approved for $500 million NALU apartments on Miami beach

The most elevated residential tower in Palm Beach, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/corallo-palm-beach-5-palm-beach-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Corallo</a>, has officially launched this week, however only a handful of buyers will have an opportunity to buy in to the 17-storey project.

The $200 million mixed-use project includes ground floor dining and retail and is considered so valuable its developer, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a>, will be staging its release of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses to the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=806]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> International, Director, David Higgins, said the development’s location just metres from the beach on the corner of Palm Beach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway influenced the sculptural design by the acclaimed Plus Architecture studio.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a> locals understand the rare opportunity here at Corallo, particularly being the tallest building in the suburb and its proximity to the beach and local restaurants, and they’ve represented the bulk of pre-launch enquiries,” Higgins said.

“The orientation of the apartments captures views of the coastline from Surfers Paradise to Currumbin, and the diversity of floor plans and apartment types provide an exceptional level of choice.

“The first release includes just 59 one-, two and three-bedroom apartments and two half-floor penthouses, with flexible use designed to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=799]

In addition to the ground floor amenity, residents will also have access to a private dedicated wellness level offering 734 sqm of resort-style amenities including a pool, cold plunge, wet deck, steam room, sauna, gym, day bed, fire pit, barbecue area, dining area and yoga/stretch deck.

The project is located within walking distance of Tallebudgera Creek, Burleigh Heads village, Currumbin Alley and Palm Beach Currumbin High School. The Gold Coast Airport is under 10 minutes away.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=814]

Higgins said Palm Beach remained a hotly contested suburb for home buyers, with prices doubling in the past five years.

“What makes Corallo so appealing to the local market is the diversity of apartment types and pricing, with one-bedroom apartments starting from $841,000 and two-bedroom apartments starting from $1.34 million,” he said.

“The ground floor retail and dining offering will further expand on Palm Beach’s village atmosphere and create a meeting place for locals, and those opportunities for connection are highly valued.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=807]

The on-site sales display, which includes a fully fitted kitchen, bathroom and bedroom, will be open until early works commence in Q1 2026. Each residence at Corallo will feature premium finishes including natural stone, artisanal brickwork, and warm copper accents.

Changfa Group has a two-decade history of delivering premium developments in Australia and internationally, having recently completed its collection of premium townhomes at Lyra, Hope Island, as well as apartment projects in Leichhardt, Carlingford, and Chatswood in New South Wales.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112194]

$200 million Corallo Palm Beach launches with limited apartment release

State Government

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The NSW Government has announced it would fund the increase in the emergency services levy for NSW councils this financial year to meet the cost of new workers’ compensation for firefighters.
Acting Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro and the Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock said the State’s 128 councils would not have to pay the additional $13.6 million this financial year.
They said the NSW Government was doing this primarily to take the strain off of regional and rural areas badly affected by the drought.
Minister for Emergency Services David Elliott said firefighters risk their lives to keep the people of NSW safe every day and it’s important they receive the full support of the communities they serve.
“The new laws enable eligible firefighters diagnosed with one of 12 cancers to automatically be presumed to have acquired that cancer because of their firefighting work,” Mr Elliott said.
“These changes will ensure current and former firefighters – both volunteer and paid – who need care and support receive their entitlements immediately.”
Mrs Hancock said the Government will continue to support local councils to deliver for their local communities.
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NSW Government to increase funding for council emergency services levy

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA WA) has congratulated the WA state government on a return to surplus in this year’s budget, however expressed a level of disappointment that this has not led to more significant stimulus measures for the struggling property market.  The Treasurer should be commended for his careful management of the state’s finances to get us to the point of a surplus in 2019/20 and progress toward his 150,000 new jobs target. While we welcome the temporary increases to Keystart thresholds that are the result of this stronger financial position, we do think that there is more the McGowan government could do to support people purchasing homes. The property industry has a significant impact on the WA economy contributing approximately $21 billion to Gross State Product in 2017/18, therefore measures to support households can also significantly boost our economy and local jobs.  The state government’s revenue, via property taxes in particular, would be boosted considerably if the property market recovery was further supported  The budget papers on one hand, recognise the decreased revenues that have resulted from ongoing weaker property market conditions and on the other hand, make predictions in the forward estimates about projected increases in revenue that are expected to come from sources such as transfer duty. Unless we see more support for the recovery, the government will not see an increase in revenue from these sources. FOREIGN BUYERS SURCHARGE:
UDIA also believes that the Foreign Buyers Surcharge (the surcharge) is not providing the government with as much revenue as was initially predicted in last year’s budget papers.  Last year the Treasurer was very enthusiastic about the prospect of about $120 million in expected revenue over four years resulting from the surcharge.  This year, the surcharge revenue figures are hard to judge given they are buried in the broader Transfer Duty line items. Last year the surcharge was listed as a separate line item with clear forward estimates related to revenue.   I just don’t see how that target will be reached given the decline in foreign investment we are experiencing,  when attracting foreign investment free of surcharges could have been a unique selling proposition and drive further investment for Perth. MARKET STIMULUS:
In terms of further market stimulus, UDIA wants to see a stamp duty concession introduced for seniors looking to downsize into more liveable homes.  As well as ensuring that seniors live in homes suitable to their needs, broader government revenues would benefit from a concession on stamp duty given the greater market activity it would generate.  Not to mention that it will free up more homes for younger families to access,. I hope that the Treasurer is true to the advice he gave to us today and considers a seniors stamp duty concession as the state finances continue to improve. INFRASTRUCTURE:
UDIA has also welcomed expenditure on METRONET, redevelopment plans for the East Perth Power Station and other major road infrastructure.  It is very encouraging to see that construction will start on the Thornlie-Cockburn and Yanchep rail lines this year.
The precincts around the new stations will create important opportunities to provide a diversity of more affordable, connected housing to the people of WA.
Infrastructure costs have fallen significantly in recent years, and given the surplus achieved and forecast, there is no better time for the government to invest in infrastructure. We are still keen to find out what the government’s value capture policy will be so that industry has more clarity regarding how that will impact development in those precincts. Details on Value Capture have not been listed in the budget papers.   Overall, UDIA is pleased to see that the state is in a more stable financial position than it has been in recent years and we trust that the state government will build on the Keystart initiative and continue to support the property market recovery moving forward.
TANYA STEINBECK is the UDIA WA CEO
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WA government must build on initial housing stimulus measures: UDIA WA's Tanya Steinbeck

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The former Labor state government minister Carl Scully has been appointed among the community and business leaders to chair the Sydney Planning Panels that make decisions on major development proposals.
The appointments were announced by the Department of Planning and Environment’s executive director of regions, Steve Murray, who said the new chairs bring a high level of expertise to the panels.
“The decisions made by the Sydney Planning Panels will be independent and based on the merits of the proposals that are put before them.”
The four new Planning Panel Chairs are:
<ul>
<li>The Hon. Carl Scully — Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel</li>
<li>Mr Justin Doyle — Sydney Western City Planning Panel</li>
<li>Professor Helen Lochhead — Sydney South Planning Panel</li>
<li>Mr Peter Debnam — Sydney North Planning Panel</li>
</ul>
The new chair of the Sydney Central Planning Panel is expected to be determined in the coming weeks. 
The new chairs have been appointed because the roles of Sydney Planning Panel Chair and District Commissioner of the Greater Sydney Commission have been separated. 
The appointments followed consideration of 70 applications by a selection panel. 
Currently, the projects they assess are valued over $20 million but from the 1st March that threshold will be increased to $30 million.
The panels also act as the relevant planning authority in some decisions when directed by the Minister for Planning or the Greater Sydney Commission, undertake rezoning reviews, and provide advice on planning and development matters when requested.
Carl Scully — Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel
A former minister of the NSW parliament, Mr Scully’s career spans more than 30 years in the public and private sectors. He practised law for seven years before embarking on a 17-year political career. For almost 12 of those years he served in ministerial positions involved in the delivery of major infrastructure projects including the portfolios of public works and services, roads and transport, and housing. He returned to the private sector in 2007 where he has worked for WorleyParsons, most recently as director of International Business Development. In 2015, he was appointed as Chair of the NSW Mine Safety Advisory Council.
Justin Doyle — Sydney Western City Planning Panel
Mr Doyle is a lawyer focused on planning and environment law, with 11 years’ experience as a practicing barrister, and 10 years before that as a solicitor. He has been the lead counsel for a team of barristers acting for the Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure in cases on the land at Badgerys Creek to allow for the development of Western Sydney Airport. His work also includes land contamination issues and the redevelopment of the former James Hardie asbestos plant which includes negotiations with the Department of Lands and Parramatta Council.
<h4>Professor Helen Lochhead — Sydney South Planning Panel</h4>
For more than 20 years Prof Lochhead has combined university teaching with her practice as an architect specialising in complex large-scale projects. She is currently Dean of the Faculty of the Built Environment at the University of NSW. Prior to that her career focused on the planning and delivery of major projects ranging from a five-year city improvements program for the City of Sydney to major urban regeneration projects. Prof Lochhead has extensive experience on university, government and industry committees, panels and boards, most notably as the National Board of the Australian Institute of Architects, Central Sydney Planning Committee, Sydney Harbour Design Review Panel and the NSW Heritage Council.
Peter Debnam — Sydney North Planning Panel
Mr Debnam served as leader of the opposition of the NSW parliament as well as holding several shadow ministerial positions including shadow minister for planning and urban affairs and housing from 1997 to 1999. Before politics Mr Debnam had broad management experience starting with his military service followed by business development and general management in the aerospace and rural service industries. He completed an MBA in 1993. Since leaving politics in 2011, Mr Debnam has contributed to charities and not for profit organisations including as the Chair of NSW Kids in Need Foundation Limited, The Muscular Dystrophy Association of NSW, and the Advisory Board of Our Big Kitchen Limited.
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Carl Scully gets eastern Sydney planning posting from State Government

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The Sydney Harbour foreshore is set for infrastructure upgrades after the NSW Government announced plans to sell the revenue streams to the ground lease rental income at four government-owned properties.
The government plans to sell the ground lease rental income for the Novotel Rockford at Darling Harbour, the Holiday Inn Old Sydney in The Rocks, the Quay West car park and the Shangri-La Hotel in The Rocks.
Property NSW CEO Brett Newman said the transactions will provide much needed funding.
"These transactions will enable us to unlock much needed funding to preserve and enhance our iconic foreshore, ensuring the millions of locals and tourists who visit these precincts each year enjoy a world-class experience," he said.
By selling the ground lease rental income for the properties, the government will receive an upfront payment to help fund important infrastructure work, while ensuring the properties remain in government hands.
The plan to divest the ground lease rental income follows the announcement in 2015 that certain non-core commercial assets held by the government would be considered for divestment.
The government has previously entered into long-term lease arrangements with existing tenants at the four properties and the proposed divestment strategy will have no impact on existing lessees.
On expiry of the term to receive ground lease rental income by the successful purchaser(s), the rights to the ground lease rental income at the four properties will revert back to the government.
Property NSW is managing the divestment, with Deloitte Real Estate engaged to provide due diligence, advisory and transaction services.
In December 2016, the Government announced the divestment of the ground lease rental income at Darling Quarter for $191 million to help fund the new Circular Quay ferry wharves.
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

State Government divestments at The Rocks to fund Harbour infrastructure work

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/79581/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-advanced" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
The Victorian government’s 2017 housing policy contains a bulk transfer of public housing to housing associations. Housing Minister Martin Foley’s explanation is that “the state is a terrible housing manager”. 
A similar rationale underlies the handing of public housing estates to private developers to build private housing, the sales of which fund some new public dwellings with the added justification of increasing social mix.
Our soon-to-be-published research examines the rollout of this program. In inner Melbourne, following redevelopment of the Kensington, Carlton and Prahran estates, nine more estates have been targeted. The tenants of buildings to be demolished will be relocated from mid-2018, according to a government briefing paper.
The federal Greens MP for Melbourne, Adam Bandt, has criticised the program as selling public land to private developers “for a bagful of cash and a smattering of new social housing”. He adds that Melbourne needs “a large-scale build of new public housing on a 1960s scale”. 
Foley’s defence of the rollout, in an odd non sequitur, is that Labor:
… can’t condemn another generation of Victorians to live in housing poverty.
A flawed idea that began with Thatcher
Public housing stock transfer and estate redevelopments in public-private mix are part of a trend that began in Thatcher’s Britain. The Blair government continued the approach, which has become neoliberal policy orthodoxy in the UK and Australia. 
This allows governments to wriggle out of providing housing for people on low incomes by transferring responsibility to non-government and private sectors. 
The thing is, housing associations are not necessarily secure or better managers, especially as they become institutions in their own right. Furthermore, privatisation of public land to fund upgrades to public housing not only fails to deliver good value for taxpayers, but is unsustainable. At some point there will be further upgrades needed and no land left to sell.
The argument that the state should not be in the business of managing or building housing is one we’re hearing more often. It’s connected to the small-government case more broadly: should the state be involved in health care, education, the media?
As the ABC and BBC demonstrate, however, state-owned enterprises can operate perfectly efficiently. And, ironically, they provide a rare source of ideological independence from both government and big business.
Why shouldn’t the state fund an ongoing program of upgrading, replacing and building public housing? Why shouldn’t it establish a regional organisational structure which is locally responsive? There is no case for assuming that, simply because the state is involved, construction and management must be inferior and people will be consigned to “housing poverty”. 
The major determinant is a matter of finance. And the state will always have better and cheaper access to finance than the non-government and private sectors. 
If finance were really as impossible a problem as governments like to make out, and if it were deemed reasonable that privatisating public land could help fund this process – and these are big ifs, which should be publicly debated – then the government should be the developer, to retain control of the profits. These should go back into public housing instead of disappearing with a private developer. 
Lessons from Carlton and Kensington
The Victorian government’s call for tenders for its Public Housing Renewal Program does indicate some learning from the experiences at Kensington and Carlton.
The sale price for the public land “will reflect the land value and must meet a minimum threshold based on a market value mechanism agreed by the Valuer General Victoria [VGV]”. This is an important concession, though VGV valuation is no guarantee of market price. 
The tender document notes that “where the return achieved by the development proceeds exceeds a benchmark, it is anticipated that there will be an agreed sharing of the excess”. The government will need to keep a close eye, though, on the costs and profits declared by the developer. 
The specification for the number of social housing dwellings on the redeveloped estates to “exceed the current number of public housing dwellings by 10%” is a definite improvement on the Kensington project. But replacing three-bedroom family dwellings with studio apartments, as is the case at Carlton, doesn’t constitute an increase in tenants. 
Even if tenant numbers do increase, 10% seems a disappointingly modest aim.
It is the social mix objective that really brings this approach unstuck, however, especially when the favoured model of private developers is to separate public and private residents by buildings, if not entire precincts. 
The minister reacts with horror to the suggestion that inner-city public land should start from the presumption of 100 percent public housing and work back from there according to the development economics. It seems a manufactured horror. Gentrified inner Melbourne is not Brixton or Baltimore – these estates are surrounded by private housing and excellent public services and community facilities where opportunities for interaction are plentiful.
Let’s dismiss the fig leaf of increasing social mix on estates in privileged inner cities. We should concentrate instead on providing as much low-income housing as we possibly can for people who desperately need somewhere decent to live.
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/kate-shaw-39629" target="_blank">Kate Shaw</a> is Future Fellow, University of Melbourne and author for The Conversation.
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Why should the state wriggle out of providing public housing? Kate Shaw

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There's not going to be much news for the first home buyers within Tuesday's NSW state government budget.
That's because the Premier Gladys Berejiklian has already announced her housing affordability package which officially starts July 1.
It was a valiant effort, but one I felt without convincing reasoning for the major policy of relief for the first home buyer.
It had the impression of the state government being seen to do something under the weight of all the recent unaffordability headlines.
The NSW Government’s solution for housing affordability sees stamp duty abolished on all houses and apartments up to $650,000 and reduced stamp duty relief for homes up to $800,000.
The valid fear is the government's well intentioned measures could prove counter-productive and lead to an increase in prices if first home buyers who hold off during June, then rush into the market in July.
Indeed the Starr Partners agency quickly noted vendors seeking to prise more of of their offerings by asking their estate agents to list their homes for slightly more, given that first home buyers will soon have more to spend. 
"When first home buyer grants were introduced a few years ago, we saw the same thing," Douglas Driscoll, the Starr Partners chief noted.
Though it's unlikely to impact too deeply in Sydney’s inner and middle-ring suburbs as just 20 per cent of detached housing stock and 33 per cent of unit stock fall within the $650,000 price threshold for stamp duty exemptions.
No suburbs within a 25km radius of the CBD have a median house price under $650,000, while just 38 have median unit prices under the figure which has not been indexed.
CoreLogic noted across in the entire Sydney metropolitan area just 25 per cent of dwelling sales over the past year were at a price of $650,000 or less.
The measure will encourage higher update of apartments given their pricing.
As Driscoll said the affordability crisis is a Sydney issue, not a state wide issue so regional NSW first home buyers are set to benefit the most from the measure.
It will take a big rise in first time buyer demand to prop up the overall housing market, filling any gap by fewer investors should they exit in the market.
There was an historic four percent low of NSW housing finance commitments to owner occupier first home buyers in recent calculations compared to 46 percent of lending to investors. 
Young first home buyers who don't wish to rush the market after July 1 will no doubt seek out the Federal Budget's simple superannuation top-up scheme that offers generous tax breaks.
The Federal Government's headline housing measure also kicks in from July 1 when the first-home buyer can start to salary sacrifice into their super account.
Withdrawals for home purchasing, taxed at marginal tax rates less a 30 percent offset, will be allowed from 1 July 2018.
This article first appeared in The Daily Telegraph.
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Not much not already announced for first home buyers in NSW budget 

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GUEST OBSERVER
The REIQ welcomes the State Government’s extension of the First Home Buyer Grant boost until December 2017, however is disappointed that the Government has refused to broaden the grant to include established homes in regional Queensland.
Regional Queensland property markets continued to struggle, with the housing oversupply one of the region’s biggest problems.
We welcome the goal behind the First Home Buyer Grant, which is to stimulate jobs and this measure has been successful in the southeast corner, with the added benefit of additional supply moderating price growth where demand is strong.
However, additional supply in regional Queensland is going to further slow these markets and make any price recovery much longer to come into effect.
The REIQ also welcomes those measures designed to stimulate jobs in regional Queensland, where climbing unemployment is impacting on the community in devastating ways. 
Unemployment destabilises housing tenure and this uncertainty is damaging to the fabric of the community.
The government’s $200 million jobs program, Works for Queensland, delivered over the next two years into regional Queensland, will tackle the need for infrastructure in regional communities and also the unemployment issue head on and we applaud these efforts.
The REIQ was disappointed this government has chosen to ignore advice from a range of experts on abolishing stamp duty.
Stamp duty is an onerous fiscal burden that stifles housing mobility and many experts are in agreement, including the Henry Tax Review, that stamp duty should be replaced.
When the cost of selling your house comes with an additional price tag of tens of thousands of dollars it gives many people pause.
Empty nesters wait longer to downsize and young families wait longer to upsize and this creates inefficiencies in the housing market that are undesirable.
The real estate sector provided a significant revenue stream for the government and employed around 50,000 Queenslanders.
The government should heed the advice of the experts when it comes to the health and well-being of this vital sector in the Queensland economy.
The key pillars that underpin the real estate profession are fragile – jobs figures are soft, wages growth is flat and investors are facing tightened lending criteria.
Real estate is facing considerable head winds and the Government needs to acknowledge these challenges and devise appropriate policy responses to ensure its continued growth,” she said. 
Antonia Mercorella is chief executive officer, REIQ, and can be contacted <a href="https://www.reiq.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Key pillars underpinning real estate profession are fragile: Antonia Mercorella 

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McGrath sold the latest tranche of government-owned Millers Point properties last night for a total of $12,765,000.
The four properties sold under the hammer included two terrace homes, two side-by-side terraces sold in one line, and a landmark seven-bedroom residence which was originally built as the “Hit &amp; Miss” hotel.  
McGrath Edgecliff agent, Lorraine Crawford, said the Millers Point market "continues to show strength."
It saw healthy bidding on all properties with the buyers a mix of owner occupiers and investors.  
“We have maintained McGrath’s 100 percent auction clearance rate with the stand out result the sale of the iconic “Hit &amp; Miss” hotel which sold under the hammer for $4,805,000,” said Ms Crawford. 
The "Hit &amp; Miss" hotel was licensed from 1852 until 1923.
It later operated as a migrant hostel, before it was remodelled into five residential apartments in the 1930s.
The heritage building is a rare offering with exquisite features ready to be restored to a grand home. 
The properties were sold by Lorraine Crawford, Peter Starr and Andrew Stewart of McGrath Edgecliff.
69 <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house/nsw/sydney-cbd/millers-point/331237" target="_blank">Windmill Street,  Millers Point</a>, NSW (above)
Sale price: $4,805,000
<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/2017/04/6/700_trinity.jpg" alt="">
14-16 <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house/nsw/sydney-cbd/millers-point/331236" target="_blank">Trinity Avenue,  Millers Point</a>, NSW (above)
Sale price: $3,000,000
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/6/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-06%20at%2010.32.47%20AM.png" alt="">
52 <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house/nsw/sydney-cbd/millers-point/331240" target="_blank">Kent Street,  Millers Point</a>, NSW (above)
Sale price: $2,600,000
 
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/6/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-06%20at%2010.33.50%20AM.png" alt="">
1 <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house/nsw/sydney-cbd/millers-point/331351" target="_blank">Windmill Street,  Millers Point</a>, NSW (above)
Sale price: $2,360,000
 
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More Millers Point property sold by NSW Government including Hit & Miss hotel premises 

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Pittwater MP Rob Stokes's planning portfolio will be taken over by Lane Cove MP and former energy minister Anthony Roberts (above) in the new NSW State Government cabinet.
Stokes takes on education in the ministry reshuffle announced by Premier Gladys Berejiklian.
Her Deputy Liberal leader Dominic Perrottet will move from finance to become treasurer, as was his entitlement.
There will be a minister for the $16.8 billion WestConnex motorway, the Penrith MP Stuart Ayres.
Cronulla MP Mark Speakman moves from environment to attorney-general, replacing Vaucluse MP Gabrielle Upton who takes on environment and the challenging local government portfolio.
Ryde MP Victor Dominello moves from innovation and better regulation to finance.
Andrew Constance remains Transport and Infrastructure Minister.
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Rob Stokes hands planning ministry in NSW Cabinet to Anthony Roberts

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The architect Eugene Marchese has emerged as one of the buyers in the State Government's Miller Point terrace selloff.
He's secured a 1875 Victorian Italianate terrace <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-millers+point-122044050" target="_blank">for $3.2 million</a> with wife Joanne.
Part of the Winsbury Terrace row, the property was advertised as requiring a complete restoration when offered by McGrath selling agents Peter Starr and Lorraine Crawford.
The three storey, four bedroom home is a 5.7 metre wide terrace on a 154 sqm Kent Street block with views over the Harbour Bridge and Observatory Hill.
So far the government has sold 91 properties ranging from $1.55 million to $7.7 million.
This article was first published in the Daily Telegraph.
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