Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<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/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Urban Taskforce

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
The Urban Taskforce CEO, Tom Forrest, today urged the NSW Government to be bold in their plans for reform of the NSW planning system as new ABS data on housing construction shows that NSW has fallen far behind Victoria and risks sleepwalking into a recession.
Across Australia, the value of construction work on new housing in 2019 declined in New South Wales (-15.5 per cent), Queensland (-10.1 per cent), South Australia (-7.4 per cent), and Western Australia (-14.0 per cent). By contrast, the value of work done on new housing increased: by 0.1 per cent in Victoria, 5.4 per cent in Tasmania and 9.6 per cent in the Australian Capital Territory
NSW has the slowest planning system in the country for every single type of development application according to the NSW Productivity Commissioner, Peter Achterstraat. 
Today’s ABS figures show that in the final three months of 2019, the dollars spent on the construction of new housing in NSW plummeted, and that is before the impact of the bushfires, subsequent floods and the Corona Virus are taken into account. This resulted in a dismal decline in NSW new home construction for the year of 2019.
Today’s ABS figures are a wake-up call for the NSW Government.  The NSW economy needs a stimulus now with new Commonwealth and State funds urgently needed for infrastructure to unlock private sector investment in housing. 
Only increased supply will create downward pressure on housing prices. Rather than increasing taxes on new housing, the NSW Government needs to boost its own spending to unlock private sector investment.
I welcome Premier Berejiklian’s calls for major reforms to the planning system. 
Planning reform is urgently needed because the current planning system is allowing NIMBYs to wreck our economy.  Local groups have successfully pressured Councils and the NSW Government into opposing new housing and apartment development across Sydney. This has slowed up the process, reduced the number of approvals and will result in a shortage in new housing supply.
This downward trend started prior to the State election in 2018 and has gotten worse. This is now having a direct impact on GST revenue, stamp duty revenue, employment and investment.  If urgent steps are not taken to reverse this trend, housing prices will skyrocket while the economy tanks – a worst case scenario.
TOM FORREST is the CEO of Urban Taskforce
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Is NSW sleepwalking into recession? Urban Taskforce's Tom Forrest

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Urban Taskforce CEO Tom Forrest has acknowledged the devastating impacts of the Australian bushfires upon communities, wildlife and property, and praised the generosity of its members in their efforts to support those affected by the drought and by bushfires.
“Urban Taskforce members have been generous in making substantial donations as well as offering professional assistance to those struggling in the aftermath of both the drought and the bushfires”, Forrest said.
Larger members have made substantial donations while smaller members have made offers of pro-bono professional advice and assistance.
Advantaged Care is offering free respite to elderly people affected by the bushfires should they need to seek alternative accommodation arrangements, and Allens is working with Justice Connect to provide free legal help to people and communities affected by the bushfires. 
CityPlan Strategy &amp; Development have also offered their support to the Local Government Bushfire Recovery SupportGroup, providing pro-bono assistance with development assessment, land use and development policy, risk based planning and best practice assessment processes and staff training. Similarly, Group GSA will be involved in pro-bono opportunities to contribute time and resources in helping to rebuild bushfire affected communities.
So far, a substantial amount have been donated to the Australian Red Cross from Allens, Bates Smart with $20,000, EP Risk, Lendlease with up to $500,000, McDonalds with $500,000, PTW Architects, the GPT Group.
La Trobe Financial established a Disaster Relief Package which will <a href="/expert-insights/finance/la-trobe-financial-to-pay-loan-interest-for-homes-lost-in-the-bushfires-for-a-year">pay loan interest and charges for 12 months</a> for those who lost their homes to the bushfires.
Donations have also been made by Woolworths and its customers through The Salvation Army and locals with more than $3 million. 
Crown Resorts and the Packer Family Foundation have donated $5 million to bushfire relief charities.
The Perich Group have donated $1 million to the NSW Farmers Natural Disaster Relief fund to help rebuild bushfire affected farms and restore local food and fibre production in south east NSW. Similarly, Holdmark Property Group have pledged $1 million to support farmers.
“These efforts showcase the extent to which the property development sector is an essential and positive part of both our economy and society", Forrest said.
“Building construction and related services account for one of the largest sectors in the NSW economy (third largest employment sector after Health and Retail). 
"Property developers take the risk on developing land into housing for our growing population, for developing commercial and industrial buildings to accommodate jobs and employment and for employing hundreds of thousands of tradies, labourers, engineers, architects, planners and urban designers.
"As the third largest employment sector in the state, we have been greatly affected by the drought and the fires. Urban Taskforce members are keen to do everything they can to help”, Forrest said.
Forrest added that the services being offered by members to assist in the recovery from the bushfires was growing by the day. 
He encouraged all those in communities affected by the bushfires to visit the <a href="https://www.urbantaskforce.com.au/%20" target="_blank">Urban Taskforce website</a> and see the updated lists of services on offer.
“The Urban Taskforce extends its support and sympathy to all those directly and indirectly affected by the fires. We thank the many incredible firefighters, volunteers, emergency service workers and individuals for their efforts to save lives, property and wildlife”, Forrest said.
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Property development industry offers support and donations to assist in bushfire recovery

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
The release of the draft Plans, along with the draft State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP), is a positive step forwards for the development of the 11,200-hectare Aerotropolis site which will eventually provide up to 200,000 jobs to Western Sydney.
This is good news for landowners and developers in the area who are keen to progress plans to contribute to the future development of the Aerotropolis.
The Aerotropolis is a key city-shaper that will completely transform the way Sydney functions in terms of jobs, growth and housing.
The plans announced today provide detail on key aspects of the Aerotropolis, such as flexible land use zones which incorporate a variety of uses, including agribusiness, commercial, residential, advanced industries, and research and development. 
Six aerotropolis precincts will be rezoned in the first round, which is hoped to be completed in mid-2020. The Urban Taskforce support this timeframe and are pleased to see a clear deadline established and progress being made by the government on the delivery of this piece of critical infrastructure. 
The sooner we progress these plans, the sooner the development industry can commence the formation and growth of the Aerotropolis on the ground.
This will lay the platform for the residents of Western Sydney to reap the benefits of additional jobs, homes and growth.
However, it was not all bouquets for the NSW Government.
Mr Forrest said that he was concerned that property values had already been driven up, even before the rezoning process has commenced, based on a series of government announcements.
If the NSW government adds additional State Infrastructure charges or “value capture contributions” (taxes) on top of already inflated land prices, they risk sterilising the land by rendering development unfeasible. The details of these charges have not yet been determined and every effort should be made to keep them to a minimum to ensure that the development and jobs (as well as GST revenue and stamp duties) can flow asap.
Further detail on the SIC and Value Capture charging regime, along with details of supporting infrastructure, are anticipated to be released next year.
It is critical that all supporting infrastructure is planned for and provided alongside the development of the aerotropolis.
Urban Taskforce believes that the State Government should fund infrastructure around the aerotropolis to stimulate an economic boom. They will reap the benefits from the subsequent taxation revenue. To put this burden on developers risks stopping the development happening at all.
The Western Sydney Planning Partnership should be commended for coordinating different levels of government as well as infrastructure agencies to collaborate on this very complex project.
TOM FORREST is the CEO of Urban Taskforce
</body></html>

Urban Taskforce welcomes release of Western Sydney Aerotropolis Plan: Tom Forrest

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
The Urban Taskforce welcomes the move to increase height limits in the city of Sydney. Sydney Tower has set the cap since 1981, and it is high time that was removed.
The new cap established by Clover Moore and Rob Stokes of 330m in the CBD is sensible. But the additional height appears to be biased towards commercial development. The Urban Taskforce calls on both State and Local Governments to continue to support mixed use development and keep Sydney alive, 24 hours a day.
This announcement effectively reverses the “Living Sydney” philosophy, established by Hon Frank Sartor and Hon Lucy Turnbull, which kick-started the Sydney CBD after years of inactivity prior to the Sydney Olympics. As Lord Mayor, Clover Moore herself became a champion of the live-work-play “24-hour city”. A mix of retail, commercial and residential building uses is critical to this.
This new plan includes in the fine print a concerning shift away from residential development in the CBD of Sydney, and it is not consistent with what the City of Sydney proposed to the Government in its plans.
After the IPC and the Department of Planning’s failure to support jobs and investment with its decision in the Ritz Carlton Hotel proposal in Pyrmont, this could be another blow to the growth of Sydney.
It was anti resident rules that turned the Sydney CBD into a ghost town, pocked with empty holes in the ground and half-built buildings like World Square in the 1990s.
The Government has just reversed its last effort to kill the Sydney night-time economy through its licensing law restrictions – and now the Planning Minister appears to be trying to return sections of the CBD to an empty wind tunnel without people after dark.
Residents in the city enliven the city. The live-work-play 24-hour city thrives where there is mixed use.
The activation of Sydney’s CBD south of Market Street is there because of the Living Sydney vision which included mixed-use high-rise development. North of Market Street, the city is still dead after dark, except for the Rocks area where there is activation through high rise residential accommodation.
This plan has been sitting with the Department of Planning for over two and a half years. The City of Sydney has been begging to have this plan finalised for over 18 months. Industry had all but given up.
The proposed heights have not changed from those proposed by the City of Sydney – in fact, they have used the very same map. The only thing that has changed since the City submitted its City of Sydney draft Central Sydney Planning Strategy the Department over 36 months ago, is that the Minister for Planning has removed the need for design excellence for these taller buildings, and taken a deliberate move to favour CBD office accommodation over CBD residential development.
The Urban Taskforce strongly asserts that quality building design and quality architecture are critical to the city’s development.
TOM FORREST is the CEO of Urban Taskforce
</body></html>

Building heights go up but residents could be forced out of Sydney CBD: Tom Forrest

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
The Australian Bureau of Statistics data on housing approvals for September 2019 indicates that they are lower than in June 2013.
The continuing drop in dwelling approvals in New South Wales is a big worry for the housing industry and needs to be addressed by government urgently.
The September dwelling approvals were 3,670 which is a drop of 46 percent since the high point of 6,744 approvals in July 2016. We are now at the level of approvals of June 2013 when there were 3,777 new dwelling approvals.
NSW is now below Victoria’s home approvals, which has a smaller population, yet their September home approvals were 4,247 compared to the NSW approvals of 3,670.
The major drop in housing approvals has been in apartments where only 1,617 approvals occurred in September 2019, compared to 2,490 as recently as April 2019, and 3,882 two years ago in September 2017. This represents a 58 percent drop in higher density approvals over a two-year period.
We are aware of some developers having to lay off staff due to the downturn and this will flow on to the builders and their supply chain. The NSW Government must be concerned about the impact of the housing downturn on jobs.
The good news in the ABS data indicates a big jump in non-residential building approvals in September 2019 with $1,570,637,000 value of the approvals which is the highest amount ever in New South Wales.
The continuing drop in dwelling approvals in NSW must be reversed by government policy supporting a simpler planning system. The NSW Productivity Commission recently stated that planning approvals in NSW took twice as long as in other states. Clearly the slow and complex planning system must be streamlined to help support the supply of new housing for the state’s growing population.
The Urban Taskforce urges the NSW Government to develop a more streamlined process for housing supply particularly for large projects where local infrastructure can be funded by the project.
CHRIS JOHNSON is the CEO of Urban Taskforce
</body></html>

cjohnson-8xfqfuuCSq

NSW housing approvals the lowest since 2013: Chris Johnson

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
The appointment of Abbie Galvin as the NSW Government Architect is a positive signal about the design of the state’s urban environment.
It is a good move forward to have the first woman as NSW Government Architect in Abbie Galvin.
The role of the Government Architect has evolved over 200 years from one of designing all of the state’s public buildings to now having an overview of the whole built environment.
The Urban Taskforce has had a long relationship with the Government Architect particularly as the chair of our Development Excellence Awards jury over almost 20 years. The development industry is keen to contribute to a quality built environment and we look forward to working with Abbie Galvin in this regard.
The NSW Government has recently stressed the importance of public spaces and the quality of the public realm, which will require a balance between the role of the state government, of councils and of the private sector that developed most of the buildings in the state.
It will be important to balance the quality of buildings with affordability, particularly as NSW housing is one of the most expensive in the world. It will also be important for the Government Architect to bring a commercial understanding of building and construction when reforming or developing broader planning rules and requirements that applicants for new projects must comply with.
Already, the NSW planning system is very complex, and slow - and the pursuit of design excellence should lead to faster rather than slower approvals.
The new Government Architect should become an advocate for a more urban way of living, with greater density than the traditional suburbs and champion these more urban ways of living.
The Urban Taskforce is keen to work with Abbie Galvin in her new role as the NSW Government Architect, in shaping the future urban form of our cities.
CHRIS JOHNSON is the Urban Taskforce CEO
</body></html>

NSW government architect can help shape the urban environment: Chris Johnson

<html><body>
The Urban Taskforce has announced its Property Person of the Year as Darren Steinberg, the CEO of Dexus. 
“Darren Steinberg is a distinguished leader of the Australian Property industry, with a career spanning 30 years across property management, leasing, development, fund management and now at Dexus where he has been CEO for the past seven years,” said Urban Taskforce Chairman Peter Daly.
“As CEO, Darren has led Dexus to an impressive position, building the group to $31.8 billion funds under management and managing a portfolio of properties across the Australian office, industrial, retail and healthcare sectors. Dexus’s portfolio now includes 53 office properties, making it the largest office owner and manager of office properties in Australia.”
Urban Taskforce CEO, Chris Johnson, said: “Darren is a very worthy recipient of Property Person of the Year and follows an impressive series of winners including Harry Triguboff of Meriton, Lang Walker, Greg Goodman, Ross McDiven from Multiplex, Steve McCann from Lendlease and last year’s winner Justin Hemmes from Merivale Group. All of these people have contributed in exceptional ways to the Property industry in Australia.”
Dexus has developed global award-winning properties including 5 Martin Place in Sydney, 480 Queen Street in Brisbane, Kings Square in Perth and the recently completed 100 Mount Street in North Sydney.
It is also behind a number of major projects including 80 Collins Street and 60 Collins Street in Melbourne, the Pitt and Bridge Street Precinct in Sydney, the Health and Education Precinct in St Leonards, and the Waterfront Precinct in Brisbane.
“Darren is a committed advocate for the Property industry and its importance to the Australian economy, and has made a strong contribution as former two term National President of the Property Council of Australia and a founding member of the Property Male Champions of Change,” said Johnson.
The Property Person of the Year award will be presented to Steinberg at a dinner on 28 November.
The event will raise funds for the Warrah Society and St Vincent’s Prostate Cancer Centre.
Over the past 16 years, the Property Person of the year event has raised more than $2.5 million for charity.
</body></html>

Darren Steinberg of Dexus named Urban Taskforce Property Person Of The Year for 2019

<html><body>
Tom Forrest has been announced by The Urban Taskforce as its incoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Forrest will formally start in the role on 11 November 2019, succeeding longstanding CEO Chris Johnson.
Johnson will retire after eight years at the helm.
Peter Daly, Chair of the Urban Taskforce, said Forrest has a proven track record as a public policy expert and solutions-focused industry advisor, with specific expertise in planning and urban development matters.
"On behalf of the Urban Taskforce Executive Committee and membership, I congratulate Tom on his appointment and look forward to his commencement in the role," Daly said.
"Tom comes to the organisation with a wealth of public and private sector planning and policymaking experience, and an intimate grasp of how to shape balanced policy outcomes that support sensible and sustainable urban growth.
"He was a trusted advisor to various NSW Ministers (Premier, Treasurer, Planning, Health and Olympics) before joining the senior ranks of the public service in the key Department of Premier and Cabinet and Transport portfolios. More recently, Tom assisted private sector clients, including commercial and residential developers, navigate often complex regulatory landscapes.
"The development industry is currently facing a range of public policy and perception challenges, and its role as a key driver of economic growth has, in recent times, been diminished. We believe Tom has the right background, experience and energy to advocate strongly and effectively for the industry in an increasingly complicated space."
Forrest said he was delighted to take on this leading advocacy role at a time when the NSW and Australian economies need a consensus approach to housing supply.
"Developers deliver not only our housing supply, but also economic multipliers for the community in the form of hundreds of thousands of jobs, and taxes that support the growth of cities and economies. This needs to be more prominently acknowledged," Forrest said.
"A strong and consistent supply of quality new housing and apartments will deliver improvements in residential amenity, sustainability through smart design and technology, and housing affordability.
"The key challenge is to work co-operatively with Government and community stakeholders towards a constructive approach to enabling this growth, in a way that complements recent substantial investments in public transport and roads infrastructure,” Forrest said.
Forrest said he takes on the role with a strong desire for an evidence-based policy approach to housing supply and development.
The Urban Taskforce represents the top 100 development companies and equity financiers in Australia and represents the industry on policy formulation, responses to Government policy, the state of the planning system and the impact of the taxation regime on the future housing and apartment supply for Sydney.
Daly acknowledged the contribution Johnson has made as CEO of the Urban Taskforce since 2011.
“Chris has been an excellent and prominent advocate for our members and has led the organisation with distinction. We look forward to him remaining a friend and supporter of the Urban Taskforce well into the future.’
Forrest and Johnson will work together as part of a CEO transition process starting 11 November as the handover date.
</body></html>

Urban Taskforce announces Tom Forrest as new CEO

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVATION
The long delayed plans for a 55 storey hotel in Bligh Street have now progressed to State Significant Development stage. 
It is amazing that the Minister for Planning, Rob Stokes, in announcing that the Bligh Street project can now be submitted as a State Significant Development, said it had been in ‘planning purgatory' for too long.
It is good news that the project is now more connected to the planning system and hopefully will get planning approval before too long.
The design of the building looks impressive and the sleek 55 storey tower will be a good addition to the Sydney skyline.
On the same day that the Bligh Street hotel moves forward, the plans for the proposed Ritz Carlton Hotel in Pyrmont were being discussed at a public meeting held by the Independent Planning Commission (IPC), where the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment argued against the 62 storey hotel project proceeding because it was different to the existing character of Pyrmont.
The Urban Taskforce is concerned that since the publication of the ‘Local Character and Place Guideline’ in February 2019 the Department of Planning seem to be preferring the preservation of existing local character over bold new visions for the future.
Pyrmont needs to be ‘taken to the next level’ as the Premier, Gladys Berejiklian has recently stated.
The Urban Taskforce presented at the meeting and proposed that the Ritz Carlton Hotel and its associated functions were an ideal project to be the catalyst for a renewal of development in Pyrmont.
With the proposed new fish markets opening up the redevelopment options for the old site will come higher rise development on the peninsula. The Urban Taskforce presentation to the IPC an optimistic future for Pyrmont with significant new development.
Sydney needs more quality hotels and the small planning step forward for the proposed hotel at Bligh Street is good news. This needs to be supported by the IPC approving the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Pyrmont.
Chris Johnson is the CEO of The Urban Taskforce.
</body></html>

Progress on Bligh Street Hotel is good news: Chris Johnson 

<html><body>
Royal Shores, an Ermington waterfront residential complex, was announced the winner for Best Urban Renewal Development in this year’s Urban Taskforce’s Development Excellence Awards.
The urban renewal project in Sydney's north-western suburb is a joint venture between PAYCE and Sekisui House Australia.
The $450 million estate is on a former <a href="/expert-insights/buying/royal-shores-ermington-secures-strong-stage-one-sales">Defence Housing Australia (DHA) site</a>. It comprising nine buildings and 632 apartments, apart from communal facilities, including a playground, picnic shelters and landscaped foreshore cycle and walkways.
The layout of each of the buildings was organised around a central landscaped courtyard to maximise natural light, cross-ventilation and privacy.
The development is adjacent to the 27 hectare George Kendall Riverside Park and Melrose Park.
The award winning team also included leading architectural firm, HDR | Rice Daubney, interior architect Turner, construction company DASCO Australia and Project Managers, M Projects.
“We engaged specialist landscape architect, Fiona Robbe to design a bespoke playground in Halvorsen Park to acknowledge the history of the location, including the World War I AE2 submarine base and the Halvorsen family timber boat building business," said PAYCE director Dominic Sullivan.
“The Royal Shores location presented a unique opportunity to create something special in urban renewal at a location that had once been an industrial site and more recently a wasteland."
 
</body></html>

Urban Taskforce

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Urban Taskforce

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News