Sunshine Coast developer&nbsp;Habitat Development Group is set to break ground on its latest Sunshine Coast project, The Millwell.

Habitat will officially turn the first sod at the start of July at the Millwell Road East site, adjacent to the Sunshine Plaza and fronting the Cornmeal Creek.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-millwell-2-millwell-road-east-maroochydore">The Millwell</a> continues Habitat’s strong momentum in Maroochydore, where the Brisbane-based developer has already delivered Market Lane Residences and The Corso Collection.

The $243 million project will deliver 205 apartments across two eight-level towers, designed by long-time Habitat collaborator <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/k-architecture">K Architecture</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, including four premium penthouses, will be complemented by 361 sqm of ground-floor commercial and retail space.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli will join Habitat Managing Director Cleighton Clark to officiate the ceremony, marking a symbolic moment for both the developer and the region.&nbsp;

Clark said The Millwell has been designed to meet this sustained demand with larger format apartments and elevated amenities.

The Millwell will offer a suite of high-end amenities for residents, headlined by the Sunshine Coast’s first 25-metre rooftop infinity-edge pool.&nbsp;

The rooftop terrace, complete with subtropical landscaping and sweeping 360-degree views, will also feature an independently operated spa and wellness centre, private dining rooms, a rooftop bar, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and communal areas designed to foster a vibrant community.

Views will span across the Maroochydore River and Mount Coolum to the north, Mount Buderim and Point Cartwright to the south, and the beaches and hinterland of the wider Sunshine Coast region.

The project comes at a time when the Sunshine Coast rental market continues to tighten, with historically low vacancy rates driving interest from both investors and owner-occupiers.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113043]

The $243 million project will deliver 205 apartments across two eight-level towers, designed by long-time Habitat collaborator K Architecture

Joel Robinson

Habitat to break ground on The Millwell in Maroochydore

Renowned developer Sekisui House Australia has launched its newest apartment project, the company’s first development in Sydney’s prestigious Lower North Shore region.

The new development, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/waterstone-st-leonards-24-berry-road-st-leonards-nsw-2065">Waterstone</a>, on the fringe of Newlands Park in the sought-after St Leonards South precinct, comprises 207 apartments designed to look south back to the Sydney CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=230]

The striking landscape-laden building was originally designed by&nbsp;globally renowned Koichi Takada Architects, with equally regarded architect&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/turner-studio">TURNER</a>&nbsp;coming in to handle the interiors and deliver the designs following Sekisui's acquisition of the prime Berry Road site.

One of the biggest focuses for the design was for Waterstone to integrate&nbsp;with the surrounding landscape, with nearly 30 per cent of the site dedeicated to communal open space.

Waterstone will feature a north-south green spine and landscape design by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/aspect-studios">ASPECT Studios</a>, creating a strong connection to the Lane Cove Council’s St Leonards South masterplan and neighbouring pocket parks, trails, and bushland reserves.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=234]

Peter Valleau, Project Director, Apartment &amp; Mixed-Use Developments at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a>, said&nbsp;Waterstone represents an important strategic play for the developer.

"As our first Lower North Shore project, it showcases a commitment to delivering human-centric, environmentally responsive communities in one of Sydney’s most desirable blue-chip suburbs,” Valleau said.

“This project is guided by our global Japanese design philosophy of Satoyama, where harmony between the built environment and nature enhances quality of life. Waterstone is a carefully considered community where residents will enjoy the benefits of a sustainable lifestyle without compromising on luxury or urban convenience.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=230]

Waterstone extends across five buildings ranging from four to nine levels and comprises 45 one-bedroom apartments, 111 two-bedroom apartments, 49 three-bedroom apartments, and two four-bedroom apartments.

Miguel Serrao, Associate at ASPECT Studios, said their vision for Waterstone was to create a living, breathing landscape that mirrors the local ecology from woodland ridgelines to the shaded escarpment below.

"We have designed a series of outdoor spaces that foster both privacy and community using native planting, sensory gardens and sustainable water management to support wellbeing, biodiversity and daily connection to nature.

“Residents will experience a sense of calm and retreat the moment they step outside their door. From quiet corners and garden courtyards to open lawns and playful spaces for children, every element has been curated to encourage relaxation, interaction and a deeper relationship with the surrounding environment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=231]

Turner led the interior design of Waterstone, with a focus on creating space that are&nbsp;timeless yet contemporary, modern yet relaxed, and blend seamlessly with the project’s park setting. &nbsp;

“Each apartment is individually crafted to feel like a home, incorporating tactile, natural materials, bespoke joinery, light-filled living spaces and framed window views,” said Darren Paul, Interiors at TURNER.&nbsp;

“Our approach focused on balancing elegance with everyday functionality. The colour schemes are warm and neutral, anchored by timeless natural stone and enhanced by optional upgrades such as feature lighting and fluted glass cupboards.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=221]

The first release is now selling and includes Aella and Zenith buildings offering a mix of spacious one, two and three-bedroom apartments, many with multipurpose rooms and flexible layouts tailored for downsizers, families and owner-occupiers.

Designed for comfort and liveability, the oversized residences feature generous layouts, flush indoor-outdoor transitions and sustainability-led inclusions such as a double-glazed façade system and solar panels on all buildings. Interiors are available in customisable palettes with premium finishes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134191 project_image_fid=231]

Residents will enjoy exclusive access to a wide range of amenities integrated along the green spine, including a heated outdoor pool and spa, poolside pavilion with fireplace and dining terrace, gym, infrared sauna, co-working lounge, resident workshop, and wild play areas for children.

Located a short walk from Wollstonecraft and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/st-leonards-nsw-2065">St Leonards</a> train stations, as well as easy access to the new Crows Nest Metro, Royal North Shore Hospital, Mall 88 shopping precinct and Smoothey Park, Waterstone is ideally positioned to take advantage of the Lower North Shore’s leafy character and exceptional amenity. Just three kilometres from Sydney Harbour, it sits within a well-connected precinct.

Construction is expected to commence late in 2025, with completion targeted for the end of 2027.

Sekisui House Australia is a 4 Gold Star iCIRT rated developer and has a strong track record of delivering billions of dollars worth of apartments across both New South Wales and Queensland.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134191]

Peter Valleau, Project Director, Apartment & Mixed-Use Developments at Sekisui House Australia, said Waterstone represents an important strategic play for the developer

Sekisui House Australia launches Waterstone in emerging St Leonards South precinct

ASX-listed developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/cedar-woods">Cedar Woods</a>&nbsp;has acquired a development site in&nbsp;Fairfield, Victoria, as part of the company's more assertive acquisition strategy.

The 11,600 sqm site is uniquely positioned between the Yarra River and Merri Creek parklands, has over 200m of direct frontage to Fairfield Park, and is located only 4.2km from the Melbourne CBD, with the elevated site boasting uninterrupted views of the city skyline.

The site, which is zoned for the intended residential use, will be developed into a mid-rise, multi-stage apartment project, yielding approximately 300 dwellings that will command premium pricing due to the sought-after location.

The site was acquired from a private vendor for $50m on deferred payment terms, with payments to be made in 2027 and 2028.

Sales for the project are expected to be launched in FY27, and with first stage settlements expected in FY29 or earlier, subject to approvals and market conditions.

According to research house, Charter Keck Cramer, Melbourne is projected to have a chronic shortfall in apartments of around 23,500 in coming years with apartment commencements at their lowest level in over 15 years. The total number of approved homes fell by 5.7% in April to 14,633, according to data just released by the ABS.

Cedar Woods’ Managing Director, Nathan Blackburne, said the acquisition will augment the Company’s current Victorian portfolio and provide quality apartments in a market where a significant undersupply is forecast.

“We see Melbourne as an opportunity for counter-cyclic acquisitions of quality sites and are preparing for increased homebuyer demand as purchasers respond to lower interest rates and supportive government policies,"&nbsp;Blackburne said.

“Cedar Woods will craft a premium design for the site to make the most of its unique park-front location and uninterrupted views of the CBD and local area.”

Builder availability in Victoria is superior to other states and extensive work has been undertaken to determine expected construction costs, with multiple builders capable of delivering such a project at competitive prices. Risks will be mitigated through presales, further builder due diligence, and contract structure.

“With our strong balance sheet, and favourable macro conditions, Cedar Woods is continuing its strategy of diversification – by product type, price point, and location – and strengthening our portfolio with quality sites that we can deploy into an undersupplied market”, Blackburne added.

The acquisition comes after the recent announcement of the acquisition of a South Australian site at which the company is planning a premium masterplanned community.

Sales for the project are expected to be launched in FY27, and with first stage settlements expected in FY29 or earlier, subject to approvals and market conditions.

Cedar Woods acquires Fairfield site for new residential development

There aren’t many luxury penthouses in Fitzroy, fewer still that offer unobstructed views, two separate living zones, and over 300 sqm of living space. Especially in a Melbourne suburb better known for terrace houses and converted warehouses than for vertical-scale opulence.

But well-known local developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/sma-projects">SMA Projects</a> has reserved the entire top floor of its newest apartment development,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-regent-fitzroy-340-fitzroy-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">The Regent Fitzroy</a>, for two apartments, but one very distinct penthouse that will stand unrivalled in the popular inner-city suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24824 project_image_fid=304614]

The penthouse, with its immense north-facing view, is the largest in the block. The four-bedroom residence has been cleverly designed by Hayball Architects to include two separate living areas, accommodating a variety of household needs, from young families wanting a second space for children, to those approaching the empty-nester stage, with adult children studying at university.

At the heart of the home is a central kitchen, designed and realised by the renowned interiors team at Studio Tate. It is anchored by a full-length island bench with an overhang intended for casual dining and entertaining. It also includes a full butler’s pantry, an inclusion more typically found in high-end houses than in city apartments.&nbsp;

This open-plan space, which incorporates the main living area and a dedicated dining zone, is framed by a wraparound terrace that is deep and long enough to accommodate multiple lounge areas, a dedicated outdoor kitchen, and an alfresco dining space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24824 project_image_fid=304613]

The master suite features a walk-through wardrobe, a double vanity, a freestanding bath, and a shower, and it opens directly onto the terrace. Easily the showstopper at this old Fitzroy theatre site of its original namesake. Each of the three additional bedrooms also includes their own en-suite with showers.

To preserve the functionality of the main living areas, Studio Tate has demonstrated refined design thinking to incorporate a separate study, featuring a long, integrated desk ideal for multiple work-from-home setups, tucked privately away from the main living zones. Meanwhile, the laundry, often squeezed into a butler’s pantry in more typical compact designs you’d find throughout Fitzroy, has been given its own fully dedicated room.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24824 project_image_fid=304603]

The Regent occupies the former site of the old Regent Theatre, which was demolished in the early 1980s. In response to this storied inner Melbourne history, SMA Projects, Hayball Architects and Studio Tate have drawn subtle references from the site’s cinematic past through materiality and form.

The Regent's design includes curved motifs, tactile surfaces, and dual interior palettes which were inspired by the glamour and texture of the classic cinema architecture of the original building.

While both top-floor apartments benefit from the development’s broader architectural language, the penthouse asserts a distinct presence through its positioning, size, and north-facing outlook.

The Regent presents a considered selection of luxurious, hotel-inspired amenities—including concierge service, a private guest suite, resident workshop, dog wash station, and curated ground-floor retail—designed to offer comfort, convenience, and a lifestyle defined by distinction.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24824 project_image_fid=304615]

Importantly, all apartments in the building offer on-title car parking with no stackers or car lifts, a practical point of difference that will appeal to owner-occupiers.

Positioned in one of Fitzroy’s quieter pockets, The Regent is still within walking distance to Brunswick Street, Smith Street, and Carlton Gardens.

Tram connections also place the city within eight minutes of the CBD, while surrounding dining, cultural and retail amenities remain a drawcard for local and interstate buyers alike.

The Regent will comprise 64 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with two-bedroom, two-bathroom residences starting from $699,000 and the penthouse selling at $8,500,000.

Currently, off the plan apartment buyers in Victoria can purchase with no stamp duty for a limited time only.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=24824]

SMA Projects unveils its luxury penthouse crowning The Regent Fitzroy

Builder-developer 5Point has received an unprecedented uplift at its under-construction luxury new Palm Beach apartment development, Ophira Palm Beach.

The significant planning approval allows 5Point to increase the building height and add another two full-floor apartments to the exclusive development on the Jefferson Lane beachfront, enhancing what was already one of the most anticipated absolute beachfront apartment offerings on the southern Gold Coast with sales prices averaging in excess of $7 million.

When first launched last year, five of the then-eight apartments were snapped up within just a few months, by local downsizers.

Only one of the full-floor apartments remains for sale, with the two-level penthouse currently under negotiation.

<img alt="web living" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abc1eef9-cde1-4b56-af4d-b3e43403ab60" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/WEB_type_b_living___dining_ophira_option_1_3D_render_by_VV.jpg?VersionId=WHQyVek5KPIeBIyCyJ1oD51ovuSM_mKR" />

5Point Projects Managing Director Damian Dove said the uplift was a major milestone for Ophira and 5Point, demonstrating that when the Gold Coast City Council’s strategic planning guidelines have been met, there is an acceptance for this type of development along the coastline.

“We had gone for low density, low occupancy in the original scheme,” Dove says, adding that it was their plan to go for the uplift to 12 levels.

“We were confident that if the building was designed for the downsizer in the luxury market space we would be able to meet city plan’s framework objective.”

Dove believes the approval will sit as a benchmark for what the local council and community will accept for future development along the beach.

“I am hopeful that Palm Beach will benefit as a result whereby great design and planning will continue to enhance the beachfront landscape.”

<img alt="Ophira" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b135701f-aa1e-467d-a666-f5ec112f8010" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-06-18%20at%203.06.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=QtvRNlHySLdvGnnV0Y8hhbi91gU8zvWW" />

Each full-floor residence will offer between 294 sqm to 322 sqm of internal and external living space, including balconies with uninterrupted ocean views. They will have three ensuited bedrooms, display wine storage, and a scullery off the kitchen.

Ophira’s two-level penthouse will deliver 516 sqm of internal and external living space, comprising four bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms, and its own private lift, bar and outdoor entertainment area featuring a pool, sauna, and sundeck.

Dove says the strong sales received to date is a testament to the design by BDA, the clever configurations of the floorplans to hero the beachfront setting, and the timeless luxury architectural fixtures and finishes.

“As with each of our projects, we wanted to create something that differentiated itself from the market," Dove said.

“We are passionate about creating spaces that resonate with the unique essence of Palm Beach while meeting the evolving needs of modern living."

<img alt="Superman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="519e4360-f8a1-420d-a776-fd9e5293b617" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/WEB_superman_ophira_3D_render_by_VV.jpg?VersionId=9Www51ROXAiqgI.oDQuELXRjdko6AtmP" />

Since bringing development in-house to their already well-established construction business, 5Point has a proven capability and success. They have over $160 million of apartments under contract on Jefferson Lane alone.

Their second Jefferson Lane development, Palm Shores, just 400 metres up the road from Ophira, sold eight of its 16 residences in just four weeks. Now 12 have sold, leaving just four remaining, including a unique four-bedroom two-level beach home that offers direct beach access.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138441]

5Point Projects Managing Director Damian Dove believes the approval will sit as a benchmark for what the local council and community will accept for future development along the beach.

5Point’s Ophira uplift puts Palm Beach beachfront centre stage

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Urban Editorial

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

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<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

Brighton has long held a special place in Melbourne’s property landscape, renowned for its iconic bathing boxes, pristine beaches, and lively retail strips along Church and Bay Streets. It’s a suburb synonymous with prestige and lifestyle.

Yet, for all its allure, Brighton has had a surprising gap in the market: a lack of high-quality townhouses that strike the right balance between apartment-style convenience and house-sized living.

It was a gap that boutique townhouse developer Sloane Property not only identified, but set out to fill. Sloane secured a prime site at 111 Carpenter Street, near North Brighton Station and Bay Street, to deliver just seven exclusive two- and three-level townhouses.

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Well under construction and set to welcome buyers later this year, 111 Carpenter has been designed to suit&nbsp;families, downsizers, and professionals looking for the perfect balance of space, style, and location.

Designed by award-winning architecture firm <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/megowan-architectural">Megowan</a>, the homes take full advantage of the site’s northern orientation, allowing natural light to flood into expansive open-plan living areas.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7517 project_image_fid=218198]

Taylor Dow highlights that what sets this project apart is how well it fits into Brighton’s vibrant fabric.&nbsp;

“Each three and four-bedroom townhome is north-facing to capture an abundance of natural light, and they all have landscaped garden courtyards designed by the well-known landscape architect <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>," Dow says.

Just moments from elite schools, retail precincts, parks, and the beach, the location is as practical as it is picturesque.&nbsp;

“Sloane identified Carpenter Street as the perfect spot for townhouse living,” Dow adds.

“Residents will be a short walk from Church Street and Bay Street retail and dining strips, several public and private schools, and North Brighton Station, which is only a 20-minute train commute into the city.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7517 project_image_fid=301405]

With builder <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/builders/virgon-construction">Virgon Constructions</a> nearing completion, buyers won’t have to wait long. The homes are on track for occupancy this September.

Adding further appeal is Sloan’s limited-time offer, allowing purchasers to secure a home with just a five per cent deposit, coupled with significant savings from the Victorian government’s temporary stamp duty abolition.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7517]

Well under construction and set to welcome buyers later this year, 111 Carpenter has been designed to suit families, downsizers, and professionals looking for the perfect balance of space, style, and location

Brighton's missing middle: Inside Sloane's 111 Carpenter townhouses

Developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/rcorporation">R.Corporation</a>&nbsp;has launched the second and final tower in its mixed-use South&nbsp;Melbourne&nbsp;precinct.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/r-evolution-south-melbourne-253-normanby-road-south-melbourne-vic-3205">R.Evolution</a> follows in the footsteps of&nbsp;the highly successful <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/r-iconic-south-melbourne-259-normanby-road-south-melbourne">R.Iconic</a>, located on the western half of the prime Normanby Road site that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/rcorporation">R.Corporation</a>&nbsp;acquired nearly a decade ago.

The majority of the 456 apartments in the 31-level&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/r-iconic-south-melbourne-259-normanby-road-south-melbourne">R.Iconic</a>&nbsp;tower—designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a>— have sold, with just a handful of premium residences and townhouses remaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150341 project_image_fid=1499]

R.Evolution continues in the same vein as its predecessor, offering a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, townhouses and sub-penthouses.

Much like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/r-iconic-south-melbourne-259-normanby-road-south-melbourne">R.Iconic</a>, which made headlines for its 30+ resident amenity offerings, including a rooftop running track, R.Evolution will add a host of new amenity.

The new 41-level tower includes a wellness Centre with a yoga and Pilates room, a second swimming pool, a magnesium spa and infrared sauna. Additionally, a co-working centre, table tennis tables, golf simulator, putting green, library, hotel-style lobby, private dining room and wine tasting room will also be added.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150341 project_image_fid=1493]

R.Evolution also shares a podium with R.Iconic, giving R.Evolution residents access to the already established rooftop level—featuring a running track, indoor and outdoor gyms, sauna and steam room, dining pavilions, BBQ areas, fire pits, a children's playground, over an acre of Paul Bangay-designed gardens, and a pool.

Construction firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/maxcon-appointed-as-builder-for-adelaide-s-penny-place-development">Maxcon</a>&nbsp;has already commenced work on R.Evolution, with completion expected in 2027.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150341 project_image_fid=1516]

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/r-iconic-south-melbourne-259-normanby-road-south-melbourne">R.Iconic</a>&nbsp;was awarded Victoria’s Best Lifestyle Development at the 2023 PropertyGuru Awards—recognised not only for its extensive resident amenity offering, but also for its prime location at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/the-junction-nsw-2291">the junction</a>&nbsp;of South&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>, Port&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>, and the fringe of the CBD.

The entire precinct has been positioned as a "15-minute neighbourhood," with walking access to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>’s extensive tram network, South&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>&nbsp;Market, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>&nbsp;Exhibition Centre.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150341]

R.Corporation launches R.Iconic sister tower, R.Evolution

Dromana has long held a special place in the hearts of Victorians, thanks to its unique combination of natural beauty, laid-back charm, and rich local character. Tucked between the gentle curve of Port Phillip Bay and the dramatic rise of Arthurs Seat, the town offers a postcard-perfect setting that has drawn visitors for generations.

In the early 1900s, Dromana became a popular seaside retreat for Melbourne families escaping the city in search of sun, sea, and sand. Back then, holidaymakers would arrive by steamship or overland, setting up summer camps along the foreshore or booking rooms in charming guesthouses. The tradition continues today, with the town’s calm, safe beaches, colourful beach boxes, and scenic picnic spots offering a nostalgic slice of the “classic Aussie summer.”

Beyond the beach, Dromana is also adored for its access to nature. The climb to the summit of Arthurs Seat rewards with sweeping views over the Bay, while nearby trails and nature reserves make it easy to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Food and wine lovers are equally spoiled, with wineries, breweries, and fresh produce at farm gates just minutes away.

But perhaps what people love most about Dromana is its balance. It’s lively without being hectic, close to everything yet far enough away to feel like a true escape. Its community is welcoming, creative, and close-knit—where weekend markets, surf clubs, and local festivals are part of everyday life.

It was all of the above and more that drew Melbourne developer Samuel Property to the area.

Samuel, led by Illan Samuel, has managed to create an unrepeatable, near-two-hectare site across the road from the beach for a new townhouse community: Hali Dromana, one of the first new developments in the coastal locale where four out of five dwellings are standalone houses.

Samuel says HALI Dromana is a location that will never be repeated along the Mornington Peninsula.

"Hali is a place where you can cross the road to the beach, take a short stroll to the shops, or relax in over 5,000 sqm of thoughtfully designed communal spaces. We're creating a true community, built on nearly 20 years of experience delivering high-quality, customer-focused residences."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147112 project_image_fid=330356]

The 70 new two-, three- and four-bedroom townhouses are just a stone's throw from everything Dromana has to offer—from the Dromana retail strip with cafes, restaurants and boutique retailers, to the&nbsp;Dromana 3 Drive-In and the picturesque Dromana pier.

Hali, designed by Cera Stribley, reimagines the quintessential Australian beach house of the 1960s.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147112 project_image_fid=330350]

The development embraces open, airy spaces and natural materials, reflecting the laid-back yet refined lifestyle Dromana is known for.

Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is exclusively selling Hali, says it is the next logical step for some - a chance to downsize without compromise.

"Large, light-filled homes with thoughtful floorplans, optional lifts, and lock-up-and-leave convenience offer a lifestyle upgrade, not a trade-off," Blair says.

"For others, it’s the beach house dream made real: a place for epic summers with the kids, backyard barbecues after long days by the bay, and ultimately a full-time home for the next chapter of life."

Blair says it’s not just the exceptional architecture by Cera Stribley or the proximity to the pier, cafes, and wineries that’s driving early interest—it’s the chance to truly own your space.

"Buyers are already customising their homes, adding lifts and design features that speak to how they want to live. And that’s the real appeal: a home that fits you, in a place that feels like it always has.

The few buildings that were on the prime site have started to be demolished, and civil works on the land will begin in the coming months. Completion of Hali is slated for mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147112]

Hali introduces a new way to live in Dromana’s timeless coastal charm

Young first home buyer Elycia didn’t expect to become a property investor when she purchased an off the plan townhouse at Development Victoria’s <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/luma-sunshine-north-247-st-albans-road-sunshine-north-vic-3020">LUMA</a> masterplanned community in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/sunshine-north-vic-3020">Sunshine North</a> several years ago.

“I’d been saving for a while, and it felt like a good time to get into the market,” Elycia said of her purchase.

When she visited the display suite, she could immediately see herself living there, thanks to the variety of thoughtfully designed floorplans.

“I fell in love with how the floorplans were laid out — especially how the living room was positioned quietly away from the kitchen and dining area,” she said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=96896]

Having watched her parents build a home from scratch, Elycia was grateful for a simpler path.

“I wanted something with as few choices as possible. Just pick a colour scheme and go,” she said. “You didn’t have to pick bricks, carpet, or underlay — it was all done.”

She selected the light colour scheme and opted for a few upgrades like a premium benchtop, but kept most fixtures standard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=255556]

While COVID lockdowns delayed the delivery of her three-bedroom home near Sunshine Station, Elycia, a teacher, said <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a> was transparent throughout the process.

The fact that Development Victoria is operated by the Victorian Government was a big reason I felt confident buying from them,” she said, adding that she was pleased with their clear communication around the delays, which were widely felt across the building industry.

“It felt slow at times, but once I could physically see the building taking shape, it all started to feel real.”

Importantly, the original purchase price remained unchanged — something Elycia appreciated.

“There weren’t any extra costs passed on to us. I’d paid my deposit, and the balance stayed the same," she said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=350574]

Elycia had planned to move in and transfer schools once the build was complete in 2025. But life — and opportunity — had other ideas.

“On settlement, I stayed in the home for one night just to take it all in — to feel a sense of accomplishment for doing this by myself,” she said. “It’s now for someone else to enjoy.”

Development Victoria is currently delivering Stage Two of the LUMA masterplan, located between Ginifer and Albion train stations.

The townhouses vary in configuration and design, ranging from one to four bedrooms, and are designed to be all-electric, featuring solar PV, double glazing, and a minimum 7-star NatHERS rating.

A new public park and future links to the broader Sunshine Precinct — set to become a major employment and infrastructure hub — positions LUMA residents to take full advantage of being in a long-term growth corridor with increasing appeal for a wide range of buyers.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=27783]

First home buyer turned investor: How young teacher Elycia bought her home at LUMA in Sunshine North

Searching for your first home can often be a lengthy process — but not for Melburnian Josh Rothwell, who wasn’t even actively looking when he stumbled across the sales office for <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/olio-officer-corner-of-bridge-road-and-coxon-street-officer-vic-3809">Olio Officer</a>, a new masterplanned community by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a> in Melbourne’s South East Growth Corridor.

“There wasn’t really much of a thought process,” Josh recalled. “I just happened to walk past the display office on my way home from work one day.”

He said he wasn’t armed with a checklist or detailed questions — his curiosity was simply piqued by the location, close to where he grew up.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84641 project_image_fid=161917]

“I wasn’t going in with a checklist. It wasn’t even a fact-finding mission. I was probably one of the least likely people to walk in and end up buying. But once I learned more about Olio, it all just started to make sense.”

Josh ended up purchasing a three-bedroom home early in the first stage of the development, well before construction was complete.

“I’ve always preferred new builds over older homes,” he said, adding that the financial structure of buying off the plan suited his situation and steady income.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84641 project_image_fid=161916]

Once he decided he wanted to buy near his family home, Josh broadened his search and visited other masterplanned communities in the area.

However, it was the credibility of the Development Victoria brand that ultimately won him over.

“Knowing that Development Victoria was behind the project gave me a lot of confidence. It’s not just a one-off developer — they stand behind what they build and can’t disappear if something goes wrong.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84641 project_image_fid=211732]

The location was another key factor. Josh works in Mulgrave, and the connectivity of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/officer-vic-3809">Officer</a> made the commute easy.

“It’s a straight drive down the Monash, or I can jump on a train at Officer Station — which is right across the road — and be in the city.”

Josh bought in 2021, when interest rates were at historic lows. While rates have since increased, he said buying off the plan gave him time to save during the construction period, making the transition manageable when it came time to settle.

“It was a chance encounter, but I’m glad I walked into the sales office that day. The home works perfectly for my lifestyle,” he said. 
Development Victoria is currently delivering Stage Two of Olio. Over 90 homes were completed in Stage One, which also includes a central neighbourhood park. Homes in Stage Two are now selling, with prices starting from under $500,000.

From passing curiosity to first home buyer: Josh’s journey to Olio Officer

Consistency hasn’t been a word used to describe Melbourne’s property market in recent years — at least, not in a positive way.

For a time, it was consistently the worst-performing capital city property market nationally. While values rose across most of Australia, the Victorian capital not only lagged behind but even went backwards.

However, the tide has turned since the start of the year, with the market bottoming out around the same time the RBA delivered its first rate cut.

The June Home Value Index by Cotality (formerly CoreLogic) showed unit values grew by 0.4 per cent in May, continuing the same growth pattern seen in both March and April.

The off-the-plan property market has benefitted from the broader upswing — fuelled not only by rate cuts, but also by extended stamp duty concessions, increased construction confidence, and more new projects entering the pipeline.

&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in Melbourne’s off the plan apartment market in May?</h2>

May marked the extension of the VIC Government's stamp duty abolition. Originally launched in October last year, the scheme allows buyers to pay no stamp duty on any new or off the plan apartment, regardless of price.

Initially set to run until October 2025, the recent VIC budget announced it would be extended to October 2026.

The $61 million initiative aims to reduce upfront costs for buyers and accelerate the construction of new apartments and townhouses across the state. The expanded concession has already saved buyers an average of $24,517, with no price caps or eligibility restrictions.

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/vic-government-extend-stamp-duty-abolition-for-off-the-plan-properties-to-october-2026">VIC Government extend stamp duty abolition for off-the-plan properties to October 2026</a>

Some of Melbourne's leading developers were active in May. Design-led developer Milieu launched their third active development, marking a return to Brunswick, where they’ve already delivered four projects.

Their fifth, Saxon Street by Milieu, will bring 77 apartments to the heart of the Merri-bek Arts and Culture Precinct.

The nine-level building has been designed with sustainability and cultural integration in mind, featuring a 7.5-star NatHERS average rating and all-electric infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136434 project_image_fid=348839]

Located near Brunswick Baths, Balam Balam Place, and the local library, Saxon Street aligns with the council’s vision to transform the area into a civic and cultural hub.

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/saxon-street-by-milieu-to-bring-new-housing-and-urban-design-to-brunswick-s-cultural-core">Saxon Street by Milieu to bring new housing and urban design to Brunswick’s cultural core</a>

&nbsp;

National developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease</a> broke ground on <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/ancora-at-collins-wharf-docklands-971-collins-street-docklands-vic-3008">Ancora</a> at Collins Wharf in May — a strong signal of confidence in the market.

The 28-level tower in Docklands, already over 50% sold, is the third residential building in the six-stage Collins Wharf precinct, which will eventually deliver 1,800 residences and 5,000 sqm of parkland.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=318931]

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/lendlease-commences-construction-at-ancora-collins-wharf">Lendlease commences construction at Ancora Collins Wharf</a>

There was another significant construction milestone in May with the commencement of the Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct — a $180 million government-led initiative set to anchor Australia’s largest urban renewal project.

With infrastructure now underway, the 480-hectare site is being primed to support 80,000 residents and 80,000 workers by 2050.

<img alt="Construction begins at Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-05-19%20at%2010.16.26%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5gdJMw44gZyeda9qDGf1DgIpWyn9fFHW" />

Central to the precinct will be the University of Melbourne’s new School of Engineering and Design, opening in 2026. The campus will foster collaboration between students, researchers, and industry leaders, with a strong focus on applied knowledge and practical solutions.

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/construction-begins-at-fishermans-bend-innovation-precinct">Construction begins at Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct</a>

&nbsp;

At the top end of the market, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/orchard-piper">Orchard Piper</a> and joint venture partner NPACT secured a $20 million sale for the penthouse at <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/one-toorak-place-7-19-carters-avenue-toorak-vic-3142">One Toorak Place</a>, setting a new record for the suburb.

<img alt="Orchard Piper secures $20m record-breaking penthouse sale at One Toorak Place" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-05-22%20at%208.59.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=V34dKvksgifBKxssOVmnNqO8iPVSPxrE" />

Spanning 560 sqm, the five-bedroom residence includes a private wellness zone and an eight-car garage — redefining apartment living in Melbourne’s most exclusive postcode.

The sale also reflects growing demand for luxury off the plan homes with hotel-style amenities. Construction begins later this year, and the project will deliver 47 residences, plus new retail and dining, including a venue by restaurateur Chris Lucas, to revitalise Toorak Village.

Read more: <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/orchard-piper-secures-20m-record-breaking-penthouse-sale-at-one-toorak-place">Orchard Piper secures $20m record-breaking penthouse sale at One Toorak Place</a>

City Beat May 2025: Melbourne units continue recovery as stimulus and construction confidence drives off the plan market

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/gurner">GURNER™ Group</a> has unveiled its latest luxury apartment play in Melbourne.

Gurner is planning 14 luxury residences in Prahran, on the former 130-year-old St&nbsp;Matthew’s Sunday School and Church Hall site at 145-151 High Street, Prahran.

The new development, dubbed <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/highgrove-place-145-151-high-street-prahran-vic-3181">Highgrove Place</a>,&nbsp;responds to a rapidly growing demand from downsizers, right-sizers, and discerning young couples choosing location and lifestyle over suburban sprawl.&nbsp;

GURNER™ sees enormous potential in the boutique luxury sector, identifying a generational shift where owner-occupiers seek the feel of a five-star hotel within inner-urban locations.

<img alt="Highgrove Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b34402c1-b305-4ebd-9e04-1f870604bd4f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/GURN11665_145%20High%20St%20Prahran_IA01_Residential%20Entry%20Path%20of%20Life.jpg?VersionId=t5axogTizgy2YcEc3mLB8aIKXfCOXzT1" />

“We are investing further in the boutique space because we strongly believe in the future of luxury owner-occupier living,” said GURNER™ Founder, Tim Gurner.

“People are making lifestyle-first &nbsp;decisions, choosing to live where they love, and demanding residences that reflect their aspirations in &nbsp;both design and experience.”&nbsp;

Built in 1891 and designed by architect Laver &amp; Fick, the striking Gothic architecture, intricate stone masonry and ornate arches of the original site will be highlighted throughout Highgrove Place, with award-winning practice <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> appointed as architect and GURNER™ Design House leading the interior design.&nbsp;

The architecture takes its cues from the world’s most historic cities and their grandiose hotels, culminating in residences that feel luxurious, exclusive and premium, in a project that pays homage to its history while embracing its future in one of Melbourne’s most sought-after postcodes.&nbsp;

Only 14 residences will be available at Highgrove Place, with prices starting at $1.35 million for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom floor plan.&nbsp;

<img alt="Highgrove Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f55ccc4c-454b-4e1c-a497-7b6daf8dcb65" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/GURN11665_145%20High%20St%20Prahran_IA04_Atrium%20GF_Alt.jpg?VersionId=PMeuYoIe5NooRigcXgR6ueqVcYsce6pZ" />

The pinnacle of Highgrove Place will be its $7.9 million penthouse, which will feature an impressive kitchen complete with custom stone island bench and butler’s pantry, elegant bedrooms that maximise natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a grand dining room that opens onto a private paradise – a terrace space that overlooks Melbourne’s skyline, which was curated by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick Landscape Architects</a>.&nbsp;

Residents will enjoy access to an elevated suite of rooftop amenities, rooftop amenity will be surrounded by an oasis designed by John Patrick Landscape Architects, and will include a sauna, spa, yoga deck, lounge, dining, hot and cold plunge pools, lounge areas, and entertainment areas, while the ground-floor retail and hospitality spaces will create a boutique destination for Prahran.&nbsp;

Level 1 will feature a full-floor premium commercial space, complete with its own grand staircase and entry, which will be ideal for forward-thinking businesses seeking a prestigious address that embodies grandeur, connection and heritage.

Starting with its awe-inspiring arche,s which make a striking statement, Highgrove Place speaks a &nbsp;language of luxury curves, with a grand staircase spiralling upward from the lobby that provides a dedicated entrance exclusively for commercial tenants to access the building’s private workspaces&nbsp;

Krongold Construction has been appointed to build Highgrove Place and will commence construction in Q3 2025.&nbsp;

Krongold Construction has been appointed to build Highgrove Place and will commence construction in Q3 2025

GURNER™ unveils Highgrove Place at historic Prahran site

As investment in Melbourne’s west accelerates, the Sunshine Precinct is emerging as a key node in Victoria’s long-term urban growth strategy.

Backed by more than $20 billion in public infrastructure projects, this historically working-class area is being quietly repositioned as a future metropolitan centre - one that may reshape how Melbourne’s west grows over the next three decades.

<h2>Strategic repositioning through transport infrastructure</h2>

At the centre of this transformation is Sunshine’s evolving role as a major transport interchange. A series of significant rail upgrades - most notably the Melbourne Airport Rail link - will establish Sunshine Station as a primary hub connecting regional Victoria, the western suburbs, and Melbourne Airport to the CBD.

Currently underway, the Melbourne Airport Rail project will deliver a 30-minute connection between the city and the airport, with Sunshine Station acting as a key transfer point. As part of this, Sunshine is being redeveloped into a transport “superhub”, including new regional platforms, extended concourses, track realignments, and improved signalling infrastructure.

This network shift, supported by complementary projects like the Sunbury Line Upgrade and Metro Tunnel, positions Sunshine at the crossroads of future movement patterns - both within the metropolitan area and beyond.

<h2>Growth Areas: Housing, Jobs and Urban Structure</h2>

Urban growth forecasts model significant shifts in the Sunshine Precinct’s population and job capacity over the next 25 years. According to Victorian Government estimates, the area could support:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">70,000 dwellings by 2051, up from 16,000 in 2021</li>
	<li aria-level="1">45,000 residents, compared to today’s estimated 27,000</li>
	<li aria-level="1">26,000 jobs, more than doubling the current base of 10,000</li>
</ul>

Importantly, this growth is concentrated around three primary nodes:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">Sunshine Station Precinct – envisioned as a mixed-use transit hub with commercial, civic and high-density residential development.</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Albion Quarter – a large redevelopment area surrounding the rebuilt Albion Station, planned to accommodate a mix of employment land and infill housing.</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Sunshine CBD – a civic and educational centre that includes Victoria University and Sunshine Hospital, with potential for further office-based employment growth.</li>
</ul>

These zones are positioned to support medium-to-high-density outcomes over time, particularly in response to housing supply pressures and the increasing viability of transit-oriented development in Melbourne’s middle suburbs.

<h2>Public Realm and Amenity Improvements</h2>

Complementing the transport infrastructure is a suite of urban realm projects aimed at improving the liveability and walkability of Sunshine.

The Sunshine Station Masterplan, supported by $143 million in government funding, outlines improvements such as:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">A new plaza and bus interchange at Station Place</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Shared user paths and landscaped public open space</li>
	<li aria-level="1">A new development site adjacent to the station</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Improved pedestrian connections across the rail corridor</li>
</ul>

Further north, the Albion Quarter Structure Plan is being prepared to support the transition of underutilised industrial land to mixed-use zones, with an emphasis on proximity to public transport and community infrastructure.

Meanwhile, early-stage planning is underway to revitalise Stony Creek, a concrete-lined drainage corridor, into a more ecologically integrated and accessible green space that could serve both flood management and recreational purposes.

<h2>Market and Investment&nbsp;</h2>

Although Sunshine has seen incremental renewal in recent years, particularly within its CBD and civic precincts, its broader built form remains relatively low in scale. Large parcels of land, legacy industrial uses, and fragmented development patterns have historically limited significant private investment.

However, that equation is beginning to change. Government-led infrastructure is laying the groundwork for long-term uplift in land values and development feasibility, particularly for medium- and high-density residential and mixed-use projects within walking distance of key transit points.

The opportunity, for now, lies in the early timing of intervention. As has occurred in precincts like Box Hill and Footscray, public sector certainty around infrastructure often precedes a wave of private-sector response. Sunshine’s relatively flat topography, proximity to established institutions, and substantial redevelopment sites give it a similar potential trajectory.

<h2>New housing opportunities</h2>

Well positioned to take advantage of the future growth in Sunshine is <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/luma-sunshine-north-247-st-albans-road-sunshine-north-vic-3020">LUMA</a>, a vibrant new community by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a> - the Victorian Government’s property developer.

Located halfway between Ginifer and Albion Stations and near the upcoming Sunshine Precinct infrastructure, LUMA Sunshine North will feature over 300 townhouses, with Melbourne-based SAW Constructions delivering the first two stages of the development.&nbsp;

The first stage of LUMA has delivered 86 homes, with all residents now moved in and enjoying all that the area has to offer.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=350574]

More than 3,600 sqm of open space has already been created at the newly opened Willowbark Park which features a playground, BBQs and picnic areas, enhancing liveability and local connection.&nbsp;

A direct connection to the Stony Creek pedestrian path network has also been integrated, seamlessly extending this key link and encouraging active travel both within the site and beyond. A future bridge over Stony Creek will directly link the new community with the existing residential area to the east, improving east–west connectivity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=255556]

Development Victoria has recently started construction on Stage two - a mix of 85 two, three, and four-bedroom townhouses to suit a range of households and budgets, from first home buyers and investors to young families and downsizers.

Homes at LUMA are designed with a focus on sustainability and are all-electric, featuring solar PV double-glazed windows, and a minimum 7-star <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/guides/what-is-a-nathers-rating-in-new-off-the-plan-apartment-developments">NatHERS</a> energy rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=96896]

Development Victoria is a government agency partnering with industry and communities to create sustainable, liveable places for people. They unlock underutilised land to deliver housing across Victoria, from house and land communities in Officer and Springvale, to mixed-use precincts in Fitzroy and Kew. They build a variety of homes and communities where people can thrive while catering to different budgets, lifestyles and needs so that more people can live where they want to be at prices they can afford.

Stage two of LUMA is now selling and is due for settlement next year. Buyers can secure a home with a 2.5% upfront deposit, and receive a $10k discount on the full price of the homes until June 30.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=27783]

Well positioned to take advantage of the future growth in Sunshine is LUMA, a vibrant new community by Development Victoria - the Victorian Government’s property developer

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