Gold Coast property professionals Jared Johnson and Zac Potter have teamed up to launch their debut property development, Basalt Lane, a boutique collection of architecturally designed warehouse units set to rise in Tweed Heads South.

Potter, a proven developer in his own right, is the founder of 21 Property Group and son of respected developer John Potter, while Johnson, director of leading commercial real estate agency Coastal Commercial, has been involved in hundreds of high-profile industrial transactions across South-East Queensland and Northern NSW.&nbsp;

Located at 80–82 Industry Drive, Basalt Lane will feature just eight premium warehouse units with flexible low-impact zoning, rare dual street access, and sleek, contemporary finishes not often seen in the Industrial sector. Construction is scheduled to commence in Q4 2025.

“This joint venture made sense from day one,” says Johnson, who is spearheading the sales campaign.

“Zac brings proven development experience, and I have a strong grasp of the local industrial market through years of commercial sales in the area. By combining our strengths, we saw an opportunity not just for ourselves — but to deliver something the local community genuinely needs. There’s a clear demand for modern, flexible, and flood-free industrial spaces in this region, and Basalt Lane is our answer to that.”

Strategically positioned just 700 metres from the M1 Motorway and under 10 minutes from Gold Coast Airport, the project offers high appeal for investors, small business owners looking for a coastal work base with premium connectivity or a secure storage solution.

The launch of Basalt Lane comes amid a surge in industrial development across the Tweed region. According to Tweed Shire Council, the area is undergoing major transformation, including the Industry Central Land Swap, a government-backed initiative relocating flood-affected businesses to higher ground. The $11.3 million program is creating modern, job-generating industrial hubs built for long-term resilience.

Projects like Quarry Business Park, also marketed through Johnson’s Coastal Commercial — are also breaking ground in 2025 — highlight the growing demand for flood-free, future-proof industrial space in one of Australia’s fastest-growing regional economies.

“We’re proud to be contributing to the next chapter of growth here,” said Potter. “Basalt Lane is a long-term play — it’s designed to deliver value now and remain relevant for years to come.”

The project responds to broader market trends, including the rise of flexible “co-warehousing”, demand for hybrid industrial-office spaces, and growing interest in regional coworking hubs. With Australia’s coworking sector forecast to grow at 23.6% CAGR to 2030, and similar small-scale developments selling out in major cities, Basalt Lane offers a timely, lifestyle-forward business solution.

Potter and Johnson bring years of experience across real estate and development throughout the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers corridor. For them, Basalt Lane represents more than just a business move — it’s a personal milestone.

“There’s no big fund behind us. We’re not a national group,” said Potter. “We’re two mates with experience and vision and we’re having a go.”

With limited supply and rising demand, Basalt Lane is expected to attract strong early interest from entrepreneurs, trade-based businesses, owner-occupiers, and investors seeking solid long-term returns in a high-growth coastal hub.

Jared Johnson and Zac Potter, have teamed up to launch their debut property development: Basalt Lane, Tweed Heads - a boutique collection of architecturally designed warehouse units set to rise in Tweed Heads South.

Urban Editorial

Gold Coast entrepreneurs launch premium industrial project in booming Tweed Heads South

Enfield may be home to fewer than 3,000 residents, but its prime location between Strathfield and Burwood has cemented its status as one of the Inner West’s hidden gems.

The suburb offers a village-style lifestyle with an abundance of cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops, staples of Inner West living.

At the last census, there were only around 300 apartments in the suburb. Fewer than a handful of new apartment developments have been delivered in recent years, but none are as well positioned as The Carlyle, just a three-minute walk to Henley Park, arguably one of the best parks in the area.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carlyle-enfield-164-liverpool-rd-enfield-nsw-2136">The Carlyle</a> will comprise 32 one- and two-bedroom apartments, a mix rarely seen in the new development market across Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148733 project_image_fid=6667]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects-western-sydney">Ray White Projects WS</a>&nbsp;is fielding enquiry from several buyer types.

"First home buyers are realising this is the best time to get into the market," says Mark Bernberg, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects-western-sydney">Ray White Projects WS</a>&nbsp;Managing Director.

"There are now several government incentives assisting first home buyers to get onto the property ladder. The recent announcement to waive lender's mortgage insurance for those with low deposits puts tens of thousands back in their pockets. Pair that with stamp duty savings in the new apartment space, and there has never been a better time to be a first home buyer in the off the plan apartment market."

Bernberg has also seen a re-emergence of investors, attracted to the low supply of apartments in Enfield and the suburb's lifestyle, while also being on the fringe of Burwood, which is set to undergo a huge transformation with its recent rezoning around the new metro station.

"That will bring a wealth of new retail and amenity to the area, which tends to drive prices higher," Bernberg says.

"Rents are at record highs, and with interest rates coming down from the highs earlier this year, investment apartments are starting to stack up again financially."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148733 project_image_fid=6665]

The Carlyle apartments will sit above doorstep amenity, with a two-level retail podium incorporated into the striking building. The retail component will include a new ground-floor café facing Carlyle Street.

Two-bedroom apartments range from 67 sqm to 83 sqm internally, with some of the larger residences on the top level featuring expansive wraparound balconies. These layouts are designed to enhance seamless indoor-outdoor living, maximising natural light and views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148733 project_image_fid=6666]

The Carlyle's proximity to Henley Park is one of its biggest drawcards. The 13-hectare park includes multiple sports fields, two fenced playgrounds designed for various age groups, and Enfield Aquatic Centre, complete with Olympic-sized swimming pool.

The Carlyle is on track to welcome residents in early 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6667]

Joel Robinson

The Carlyle in Enfield launches to undersupplied Inner West market

A new Metro stop, a thriving café scene, and proximity to village-style retail have cemented St Leonards as one of the Lower North Shore’s most sought-after suburbs for new development.

Among those seizing the opportunity is Sekisui House Australia, which has chosen this prized pocket, in the St Leonards South precinct, for its first-ever inner-city apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/waterstone-st-leonards-24-berry-road-st-leonards-nsw-2065">Waterstone</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=230]

Set for completion in the summer of 2027, Waterstone comprises 207 apartments across five buildings, designed to look south back to the&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;CBD.&nbsp;The new project offers residents the rare balance of connected urban living and tranquil green surrounds.

Just moments from home lies Smoothey Park, a blend of natural bushland and manicured parkland. It forms part of the Wollstonecraft cluster of reserves, including Gore Cove, Badangi Reserve, and Berry Island, all offering peaceful escapes on the Harbour’s edge.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KCD5mtyKBjc?si=DcC6Koxg6shdDFzq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

When it comes to lifestyle, St Leonards and its neighbouring suburbs, Crows Nest, Waverton, Greenwich, and Wollstonecraft, deliver an endless array of cafés, restaurants, and boutique retailers. Nearby Mall 88, only 650 metres from Waterstone, adds convenience with over 30 specialty stores.

Connectivity is another major drawcard. The new Crows Nest Metro Station is just one kilometre away, while St Leonards Train Station is a short seven-minute walk. For a more scenic commute, the Greenwich Point Wharf ferry reaches Circular Quay in under 30 minutes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=351953]

For peace of mind, Royal North Shore Hospital, one of Sydney’s most prominent medical hubs, sits just 650 metres away, making Waterstone ideal for healthcare professionals or residents seeking easy access to world-class medical facilities.

Perfectly positioned on the fringe of vibrant activity yet embraced by parkland serenity, Waterstone offers the best of both worlds in Sydney’s evolving Lower North Shore.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134191]

Nature and connection define life at Waterstone in emerging St Leonards South precinct

A new collection of residences is now available at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sol-by-walker-maroochydore-first-avenue-maroochydore-qld-4558">SOL by Walker</a>, the residential development that continues to take shape within the Maroochydore City Centre.

The second release introduces 137 apartments to the market, adding to the growing community in what is set to become one of South East Queensland’s most significant urban renewal precincts. The new offering includes a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a limited number of terraces and penthouses designed to suit a range of lifestyle needs.

“SOL represents the beginning of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/maroochydore-qld-4558">Maroochydore</a>’s exciting next chapter, redefining expectations around life in this beautiful coastal city,” David Gallant, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/walker-corporation">Walker Corporation</a>, said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319853]

Located on South Sea Islander Way, SOL forms part of the broader vision to deliver a connected and vibrant city heart for the Sunshine Coast. Construction is already underway on the first 19-storey tower, with completion targeted for early 2028. The development is being delivered by Walker in collaboration with Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral.

SOL’s second stage continues the project’s focus on high-quality apartment living, with access to a suite of resident-only amenities including a rooftop sky terrace, wellness retreat, co-working lounge, gym and landscaped garden spaces.

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> combine timeless design with natural materials, generous layouts and panoramic outlooks to the ocean, hinterland and river.&nbsp;

“SOL by Walker establishes a new standard in apartment quality, seamlessly integrating superior craftsmanship with unmatched design,” Danny Juric, Director at Plus Studio, said

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=346899]

Apartments feature open-plan layouts with high ceilings and expansive glazing to enhance natural light and ventilation.&nbsp;

A warm, neutral palette ties together stone benchtops, brushed platinum accents, and sandstone-toned carpet, while large sliding doors connect living areas to generous outdoor spaces.&nbsp;

Kitchens are fitted with integrated Miele appliances, refined cabinetry and thoughtful storage, while bathrooms offer double vanities and oversized showers to balance function and comfort.

As part of the Sunshine Coast’s new CBD, residents will be within walking distance of local retail, dining and green space, with transport connections set to expand as the precinct grows. Once complete, Maroochydore City Centre is expected to deliver thousands of new homes as part of the region’s long-term housing strategy.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147777]

Second release at SOL by Walker expands residential offering in Maroochydore City Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a> has marked the topping out of Prince &amp; Parade in Brunswick, celebrating the completion of the building’s highest point and a major step forward for one of the developer’s landmark Melbourne communities.

The milestone forms part of Mirvac’s strong construction momentum across Victoria, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/prince-parade-by-mirvac-brunswick-701-park-street-brunswick-vic-3056">Prince &amp; Parade</a> and The Albertine both recently reaching structural completion. Together, the two projects will deliver 265 new apartments, contributing to much-needed housing supply in Melbourne’s inner suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=3627]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a>, Prince &amp; Parade continues a long-standing partnership that has delivered The Melburnian (2002) and The Eastbourne (2019).

The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brunswick-vic-3056">Brunswick</a> address comprises a mix of one to four-bedroom residences complemented by extensive amenity, including a residents’ lounge, shared dining room and kitchen, library, yoga room, gym, and rooftop terrace, with landscaping by Jack Merlo and a concierge service.

Construction is rapidly transforming the site, with significant milestones achieved across two buildings, supported by 73 slab pours and six fully constructed building cores. Completion is expected in 2026.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4802 project_image_fid=269383]

Mirvac’s General Manager, Residential Development Victoria, Elysa Anderson said Prince &amp; Parade has been strongly received by buyers seeking quality design and trusted delivery.

“These communities have been well received, attracting strong interest from downsizers and professionals who value high-quality design, premium locations and the confidence of buying with Mirvac,” Anderson said.

Prince &amp; Parade has also achieved a record-breaking apartment sale in Brunswick, underscoring its design quality and market appeal.

“We’re incredibly proud to see Prince &amp; Parade set a new benchmark for Brunswick. This <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/exclusive-mirvac-breaks-brunswick-record-with-prince-parade-sale">record-breaking sale</a> is a testament to Mirvac’s design excellence, quality craftsmanship, and our strong reputation for delivering high-quality residential communities across the country,” Anderson said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4802]

Prince & Parade tops out in Brunswick as Mirvac marks dual Melbourne milestones

Survey

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<div>NAB releases its June 2015 Business Survey which revealed some interesting results, with unemployment now expected to peak at 6.25% and other near term data strengthening.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Business conditions trending higher moving up strongly from +5 to +11, the highest level since last October and well above the long run average.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/07/15/Nab1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/07/15/Nab1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div>Business confidence is also back up to its post election peak, moving up nicely from +8 to +10, with the highest recording now to be found in retail (the lowest confidence, of course, is in mining):</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/07/15/Nab2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/07/15/Nab2.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>And trading conditions booming:</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/07/15/Nab3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/07/15/Nab3.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>The forward orders index also rose from +2 to +5.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Buffers</div>
<div> </div>
<div>On the other hand, consumer confidence has been ticked a little lower lately, which has led in turn to some remarkable loan "arrears" data.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The average homeowner is now so far ahead on mortgage repayments that loans buffers are better measured in years than months. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>It's amazing how often this theme is recurrent with clients I speak to.</div>
 The full NAB survey can be found <a href="https://business.nab.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/NAB-Business-survey-June-15.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
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>. 
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>.
</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

NAB business survey - an upside surprise: Pete Wargent

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Over 80 per cent of residential real estate agents around the world say the coronavirus pandemic has cut their 2020 earning expectations, according to the first international survey of real estate on the impact of the outbreak.
More than 60 countries took part in the Juwai IQI Market Intelligence 2020 survey, with every country citing a loss of earnings.
Real estate agents in Greece have the worst outlook.
Some 95 per cent of Greek agents expect the coronavirus pandemic to cut their earnings in 2020, with two-thirds of those forecasting they will earn "significantly less."
 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/3/Screen%20Shot%202020-04-01%20at%2010.26.02%20am.png" alt="">
As well as Greece, more than four out of five agents in a further five countries expect to earn less in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In Australia, 84% of agents expect to earn less in 2020, with 58% suggesting the impact on their earnings will be significant and only 27% expect it to be moderate. 
In Singapore, 88% of agents expect to make less.
The share of Singapore agents who expect to earn "a little less" is, at 47%, larger than the 41% who believe they will make "significantly less."
Malaysian and Philippine agents are the least pessimistic among those surveyed.
In Malaysia, 74% of agents expect to earn less in 2020, with 38% expecting to earn “significantly less” and 33% expecting to earn “a little less.”
In the Philippines, 68% of agents expect to earn less in 2020 due to the Coronavirus, with 38% expecting to earn “significantly less” and 30% expecting to earn “a little less.”
One of the strategies agents will use to preserve their incomes, according to the report, is to invest more in marketing to foreign buyers. Worldwide, 18% of agents report foreign buyers are one of their strategies.
Perhaps because of the relative significance of foreign buyers to their markets, agents in the Philippines and Portugal are the most likely to report plans to do so. In both the Philippines and Portugal, 26% of agents plan to increase their foreign buyer marketing.
In Malaysia and Thailand, 22% of agents will increase their investment in marketing to foreign buyers. In Greece, 21% of agents will do so. The share is 18% in Singapore, 16% in both Canada and Australia, and 12% in the USA.
 
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wdavis-8cCN98p7xp

Coronavirus driving agents earnings down worldwide; Juwai IQI Market Intelligence 2020 survey

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The number of consumers who don’t think will be a good time to sell their home or investment property continues to out-weigh those who think it is, according to a new survey. 
NAB's latest Australian Consumer Anxiety Survey for Q2 2019 noted these results suggest many consumers still think the housing downturn could still have more to run.
In net terms, +32% said they thought now was a good time to buy a property to live in and +34% to renovate their home.
With house prices continuing to fall across the country, consumers who thought it wasn’t a good time to sell their home (-35%) or investment property (-33%) also continued to significantly out-weigh those who thought it was a good time to sell.
However, the net number who thought so was somewhat lower than in the previous quarter, suggesting that some consumers may believe the market is close to the bottom.
With downward pressures on interest rates, it also noted a large increase in the net number of consumers who thought it was a good time to get a mortgage on their home (+13).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/26/Good%20time%20NAB%201.JPG" alt="">
Source: NAB Anxiety Report Q2 2019
On balance, slightly more consumers (+29%) believe it will be a good time to buy a property to live in over the next 12 months (+25% in Q1 2019), and +24% to renovate their home (+23% in Q1 2019).
The number of consumers who don’t think it will be a good time to sell their home (-15%) or investment property (-14%) continues to out-weigh those who think it is - but this has fallen since Q1 2019, suggesting more consumers are expecting market conditions to improve.
With widespread speculation for further interest rate cuts in 2019, those who think it will be a good time to take out a mortgage a mortgage for their own home (+10) also rose.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/26/Good%20time%20NAB%202.JPG" alt="">
Source: NAB Anxiety Report Q2 2019
Consumer intentions around property are still overwhelming conservative.
The net number of consumers who said they didn’t intend to sell investment property (-83%), renovate an investment property (-81%), take out an investment loan (-79%), sell their home (-78%), buy investment property (-75%), take out a home loan (-74%) or sell the home they live in (-66%) far outweighed those who said they would.
Consumers were least negative about renovating their homes (-49%). Intentions remain overwhelmingly negative and conservative in all states - see table below.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/26/Good%20time%20NAB%203.JPG" alt="">
Source: NAB Anxiety Report Q2 2019
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Australians still fear the property market has further to fall: NAB

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Over 40 percent of respondents of a recent survey said they were reliant on future house price growth to achieve future life / financial goals, with 10 percent completely reliant.
The study of 1500 Australian adults also saw 38 percent want prices to increase while 37 percent want them to fall.
Where you sit largely comes down to your property ownership status: 39 percent of those who own the home they live in and 47 percent who own an investment property indicated they are ‘reliant’ on future prices, presumably increasing, while 48 percent of those who don’t own a property also say they are reliant, presumably wanting prices to fall.
Younger respondents indicated they are more reliant on future house prices than older: 51 percent of Millennials (25 to 39 year olds) said they are reliant compared to 30 percent of Baby Boomers (55-74 year olds).
Most tellingly, the survey indicates more Australians would benefit from property prices falling than rising, with only 28 percent indicating they’d benefit by selling if prices continued to rise compared to 47 percent who said they’d benefit by buying in if property prices fell.
A quarter of home owners happy to see house prices to fall
ME home loan expert Patrick Nolan said he was surprised to find 37 percent of respondents want property prices to fall, including 24 percent of those who own a home and even 20 percent of those with an investment property, compared to 38 percent of who want prices to continue rising 38 percent.
“Traditionally Australians fall into two camps when it comes to property prices: owners, who want them to rise, and non-owners, who want them to fall.
“But with high prices disrupting the dream of home ownership and the benefits that brings, views are changing.”
“That property owners were willing to see asset values fall is a sure sign house prices had reached heights many think are unfair,” Nolan said.
When asked why they want prices to fall, the overwhelming reason given was to help address the housing affordability issue (57 percent), a sentiment expressed by 97 percent of those with property.
The bulk of those wanting house prices to continue rising are property owners: 49 percent of home owners and 55 percent of investors.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

New survey confirms the importance of property to Australians

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Regulatory moves to tighten lending to foreign buyers seem to be working, with their share in new property markets falling to a five-year low 9.5%,  according to a NAB index.
However, the share of foreign buyers edged up to 5.9% in established markets, albeit still near four-year lows. 
The figures are part of NAB’s Residential Property Survey for the quarter ended September. 
The data was cited by CoreLogic’s head of research Cameron Kusher.
“NAB's quarterly residential property survey indicates that there has been a big pullback in foreign demand for residential property,” Kusher tweeted. 
NAB’s note had said that “we have maintained our view for more muted market performance going forward, particularly following our revised expectations for RBA rate hikes which have been brought forward to mid-2018 (from H2 2019)”.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABForeignDemand.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABForeignDemand.png" alt="">
Victoria had the lowest foreign buying activity in new property markets, where the share of sales to foreign buyers fell to 14.4% (20.8% in Q2). 
Foreign buyers were also noticeably less prevalent in NSW, where their market share fell to 7.8% - its lowest level since Q1 2012 and down from 12.0% in Q2. The proportion of foreign buyers in new property markets also fell in WA to 4.5% (6.9% in Q2). In contrast, foreign buyers increased their market share in Queensland to 11.4% (8.6% in Q2) despite the introduction of a foreign investor land tax surcharge in July 2017. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABgraph2.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABgraph2.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABgraph3.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABgraph3.png" alt="">
In established housing markets, the overall share of foreign buyers rose a little from 5.6% to 5.9% in Q3, but remained anchored at near 5-year lows. 
Foreign buyers accounted for a smaller share of sales in Victoria (8.0% in Q3 vs. 9.0% in Q2), NSW (5.6% vs. 5.9%) and WA (4.2% vs. 4.5%). 
In Queensland, however, they accounted for 6.7% of established property sales, up from 3.8% in Q2. 
 
 
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

NAB survey indicates pullback in foreign buyers: CoreLogic's Cameron Kusher 

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The Stockland Liveability Index has found the most important factors in creating a liveable city is for it to be connected, healthy, smart and affordable.
The index is based on the results of a survey of 2,500 people that was conducted between January and March 2017 in partnership with Colmar Brunton.
Findings and relevance to the future direction of our cities will be discussed at a special event hosted by the Committee for Sydney featuring land use expert Professor Christopher Leinberger, Greater Sydney Chief Commissioner Lucy Turnbull AO, Stockland CEO and managing director Mark Steinert, and co-founder of Roberts Day, Mike Day.
Mark Steinert, Stockland managing director and CEO, said they are delighted to partner with the Committee for Sydney and bring Professor Leinberger to Australia at a time when as a nation we are rethinking the future of our cities, with a strong focus on liveability.
“For communities to be liveable, they need to be smart, healthy, connected and importantly, affordable," he said.
"The powerful emerging market trend toward walkable urban development in the US is one we expect to see replicated in Australia, as our cities continue their strong growth trajectories.
“Capturing and applying the insights from research by experts such as Professor Leinberger will help ensure our growth story is a positive one for the people who live, work and visit our metropolitan centres.”
Professor Leinberger’s 2016 report, Foot Traffic Ahead, shows that: “For perhaps the first time in 60 years, walkable urban places (‘WalkUPs’) in all 30 of the [US’] largest metros are gaining market share over their drivable sub-urban competition — and showing substantially higher rental premiums.”
Tim Williams, Chief Executive of the Committee for Sydney said governments at all levels are accelerating their efforts to shape the future of our cities, with a focus on ensuring we have the right infrastructure and public amenities in place to make them sustainable and liveable over the long-term.  
Mike Day, Co-Founder of Roberts Day, said with Sydney suffering from the overlapping crises of health and affordability, a key step to transform Sydney is creating walkable places.
"Walkable places offer people safety, comfort and delight," he said.
"Benefits of a walkable Sydney include creating a true 30 minute city to address the fact people of Western Sydney are three times more likely to suffer from diabetes than their inner-city counterparts.
“The emerging equity issue Sydney needs to address is people’s proximity to walkable places.
"By giving priority to walkable places as the new missing middle of Sydney’s density done well discussion, the added value of improved health, happiness and productivity, means everyone benefits.
“The obesity statistics present a significant challenge facing the liveability of Australian cities. 
“Our research shows us that if we work with government and other key stakeholders to fast-track schools, parks, childcare, cafés and shops, we can have a profound impact on the liveability of our communities and the health of residents.
"The social imperatives for doing so is compelling and is supported by equally clear commercial ones.
“The Federal Government’s Smart Cities Plan, as well as State planning policies including the recently-released Greater Sydney Commission District Plans, reflect the importance of liveability measures.
“The unique perspective offered by our Liveability Index is the voices of more than 2,500 residents – from the ground up, sharing their experiences of what makes a community work well.”
The Stockland Liveability Index provides three key lessons for cities:
1.     Provide opportunities for community interaction:
<ul>
<li>Parks, cafés, walkways, schools, children’s playgrounds, cycleways</li>
<li>Build in technology, to connect communities from the outset and enhance customer experience</li>
<li>Create links with the natural environment</li>
<li>Community programs, like parents’ groups and exercise classes, for community connection and physical exercise.</li>
</ul>
2.     Introduce well-designed neighbourhoods:
<ul>
<li>Smart design, with places that are walkable</li>
<li>Carefully plan all new homes to be close to childcare, schools, retail, parks and playgrounds</li>
<li>Access to employment, transport and health facilities.</li>
</ul>
3.     Deliver infrastructure early, where possible:
<ul>
<li>Fast tracking key infrastructure such as playgrounds, schools, public transport, parks,</li>
<li>outdoor exercise stations</li>
<li>Proven to generate high levels of resident satisfaction and community pride.</li>
</ul>
A recording of the discussion will be available at <a href="https://www.sydney.org.au" target="_blank">www.sydney.org.au</a>.
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Urban experts reveal key ingredients for successful cities

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Just under half of Aussies polled for a recent survey (48 percent) believe the property dream is still alive and well according to the CommBank Connected Future Report.
The report, based on the response of more than one million people, asked Australians about how they perceive their future, the property market, adapting to a changing workforce, and life for younger generations.
Just over half of the respondents (52 percent) said the Australian dream is being redefined.
Demographer and futurist Claire Madden authored the CommBank Connected Future Report.
She said a remarkable insight from the CommBank ATM data overall is the resilience and tenacity Aussies have in the face of economic uncertainty.
“As a lead example, while the Australian property dream looks markedly different in 2017, the majority of Australians either fully own or are paying off their home," she said.
“This has remained constant over the past five decades, so despite uncertainty, the Australian dream has clearly lived through time.
"The research shows while Millennials (Gen Y) are delaying traditional life markers like getting married or having a child, the average age of a first homebuyer has remained relatively constant over the last two decades, sitting at around 32 years of age.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%2011.09.10%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%2011.09.10%20AM.png" alt="">
 
"The Australian ‘dream home’ is no longer a weatherboard standalone house. It is an architecturally designed product, as the quality of dwellings has risen over time.
"Whilst 74 per cent of those living in cities and 81 per cent of those outside capital cities currently live in a stand alone house, 48 per cent of new residential approvals over the past year have been for medium or high density housing.
"CommBank data reveals 68 percent of first home buyers purchased a house in the last year, 16 percent desire to build their architectural dream home after purchasing vacant land, and 15 percent purchased an apartment or townhouse.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%201.22.26%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%201.22.26%20PM.png" alt="">
"The data relating to the Australian property dream reveals that the state you live in impacts your state of optimism.
"The least optimistic were people residing in New South Wales (53 percent) and Victoria (54 percent), and this was significantly high with younger generations (57 percent in both states).
"Those in Queensland (51 percent), South Australia (53 percent), Western Australia (54 percent) and the Northern Territory (57 percent) believe the dream is more attainable.
"Gen Y have prioritised global travel, lifestyle experiences, stayed longer in formal education and attained the name KIPPERS (Kids in Parents’ Pockets Eroding Retirement Savings) for staying in the family home longer.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%201.24.11%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%201.24.11%20PM.png" alt="">
"Yet now they are in their prime career building and family forming years, they, like their predecessors, are finding a way to overcome the obstacles, respond to new realities, and see the (re)defined dream come alive.
"Even though the dream has taken a different form, the data reveals property ownership remains high on the aspirational list (average home buying age remains consistent at 32).
"With almost 3 in 10 Australians (29 percent) born overseas, and a quarter (27 percent) of the population’s labour force born overseas, immigration has significantly contributed to Australia’s workforce and economy.
"In the midst of this diversity, CommBank data reveals that almost half of Aussies (49 percent) believe that our society truly embraces everyone."
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Survey reveals under half of people believe that the property dream is still alive

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Respondents to a new survey from the Australian Property Institute believe residential property in Sydney and Melbourne is reaching the top of the property cycle and markets will remain in a similar position in Melbourne for a further 12 months and in Sydney for another two years.
The majority of respondents believe that interest rates will remain at similar levels for the next year, and be higher in 3 years. They also believe that foreign investment will be at similar levels for the six months, but uncertain of levels over the longer term.
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-1.jpg" alt="">
Mike Zissler, API chief executive officer, said a common view among respondents is that overall, demand is outperforming supply, ensuring residential markets remain strong.
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-2.jpg" alt="">
“Ninety-two per cent of survey respondents see low interest rates as a significant to very significant driver of Sydney residential property demand and prices," he said.
"The second most significant driver is supply, with 91 percent seeing it as significant to very significant.
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-3.jpg" alt="">
“In Melbourne, the two main drivers for residential property demand and prices are low interest rates (with 95 percent of respondents seeing them as a significant to very significant driver) and foreign investment (with 91 per cent of respondents seeing it as a significant to very significant driver).
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-4.jpg" alt="">
“Brisbane is similar to the Sydney market, with 95 percent of respondents seeing low interest rates as significant or very significant, and therefore the main driver of demand and prices in the city. Supply is considered the second most significant driver, with 80 per cent seeing it as significant to very significant.
“We also asked respondents about the drivers of demand in Perth. Low interest rates are again considered the most significant driver of demand and prices, however this view is not as strong as in the other cities, with 80 per cent seeing it as a significant or very significant driver.
“Results were split for Sydney, with 58 percent of respondents indicating residential property is in or is entering a bubble, while 42 percent indicate it is not in a bubble.
“Respondents were fairly certain of a bubble in the Melbourne market, with 86 percent of respondents indicating residential property is in or is entering a bubble, while 14 percent believe it is not in a bubble.
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-6.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-6.jpg" alt="">
“For Brisbane, 42 percent of respondents indicate that residential property is not in a bubble, 52 percent indicate that it is in or is entering a bubble and 5 per cent are unsure.
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-7.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-7.jpg" alt="">
"For Perth, respondents are more certain, with 90 percent indicating residential property is not in a bubble."
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Prices staying at top of property cycle: Australian Property Institute's property directions survey 

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Commercial property professionals continue to be confident over the next two years and sentiment is improving, the NAB Commercial Property Survey for Q3 shows.
The NAB Commercial Property Index rose 11 points to +16, with sentiment higher across the four surveyed sectors of Office, Retail, Industrial and CBD Hotels.
Market sentiment remained strongest in NSW, which rose 17 points over the quarter to +55 and Victoria (up 2 to +30), consistent with the stronger business conditions also exhibited in those states.
<a href="/images/2016/11/09/Commercial%20property%20index.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/09/Commercial%20property%20index.jpg" alt="">
In contrast, sentiment fell a further 6 points in Western Australia to -54.
“Stronger sentiment this quarter came despite moderations in business conditions over the quarter, as recorded by the NAB Quarterly Business Survey,” NAB senior economist Rob de Iure said.
“While sentiment has improved, gains are narrowly based on the eastern seaboard with NSW and Victoria outperforming the rest of the country in sentiment, capital growth and income returns.
“Looking forward, confidence levels from respondents were also high, with gains in the CBD Hotels, Office and Industrial sectors offsetting lower confidence in Retail – likely driven by weaker retail business conditions and subdued consumer spending.”
The Q3 Survey shows nearly two-thirds of all developers looking to start projects were looking at the residential sector, however only 34% planned to start work in the next six months – dropping to 18% in 18 months’ time.
<a href="/images/2016/11/09/Property%20table%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/09/Property%20table%201.jpg" alt="">
“Survey respondents may be telling us that the current housing construction cycle, particularly for high density properties, may slow in the coming two years,” Mr de Iure said.
“And while the number of property developers planning to source more capital to fund their development was broadly unchanged quarter-on-quarter, nearly half (48%) were unsure of their intentions over the next 12 months – up from 31% in the second quarter.”
In addition, the Survey found more property developers are using land-banked stock to start new work, which may reflect the high levels of building activity in the residential sectors and land shortages in some cities.
Property professionals on balance also report that it is getting harder to obtain debt and equity for their businesses – with professionals expecting access to funding to remain difficult for the next 6-12 months.
About 240 property professionals participated in the Q3 Survey.
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