The next major milestone in the transformation of Melrose Park has arrived, with construction now officially underway at <a>Melrose Central</a>, the $700 million apartment and retail development from builder-developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a>, in partnership with <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/payce-consolidated-limited">PAYCE</a>.

Following a record-breaking sales launch earlier this year, activity has ramped up on site with work commencing on the first stage of the project, a key anchor in the broader <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> North Urban Renewal Precinct.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/melrose-central-melrose-park-33-hope-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Central</a> will ultimately deliver around 500 apartments across six architecturally distinctive towers designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/turner-studio">TURNER Studio</a>, set above a vibrant five-level podium.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289879]

The project also marks the debut of Melrose Park’s first major retail offering, a 30,000 sqm precinct anchored by Coles, and supported by dining, wellness, entertainment, and convenience retail.

With early site works commencing in February, construction of the podium and the first three towers is now well underway, with full completion of the initial stage expected by mid-2027.&nbsp;

The final three buildings will follow, further contributing to the evolution of the 55-hectare precinct, which will eventually deliver 6,000 new homes to Sydney’s rapidly growing west.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289877]

Deicorp’s Melrose Central has captured the market’s attention since its launch. During the opening weekend alone, 40 apartments were snapped up.

Buyers have included first home buyers, local owner-occupiers, and investors, drawn by the combination of design, amenities, and long-term growth potential in a connected, masterplanned community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134220 project_image_fid=289885]

Apartments at Melrose Central are available in a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom layouts and have been crafted with modern lifestyles in mind.&nbsp;

Interiors are shaped by TURNER Studio’s refined design language, with open-plan layouts, SMEG-integrated kitchens, and generous balconies or courtyards that take in views of parklands and water.

The architecture also responds to the broader precinct’s master plan, with four distinct quadrants differentiated by colour palettes, materials and façade treatments to reinforce identity and enhance place-making.

The development will be serviced by the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2, with a stop located directly outside the retail precinct.&nbsp;

The newly approved light rail extension—set to include a bridge over the Parramatta River—will link Melrose Park to Sydney Olympic Park, Wentworth Point, and Parramatta, with future integration to the Sydney Metro West.

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With early site works commencing in February, construction of the podium and the first three towers is now well underway, with full completion of the initial stage expected by mid-2027. 

Joel Robinson

Construction underway at Deicorp’s Melrose Central in Melrose Park

While Melbourne’s northern suburbs have seen measured, sustained growth in recent years, few pockets combine transport connectivity, green space, and everyday amenity quite as well as <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/greensborough-vic-3088">Greensborough</a>.&nbsp;

Around 17 kilometres from the CBD, the suburb has long-held appeal for families and long-term residents drawn to its strong community infrastructure and established landscape.&nbsp;

Developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/citinova">Citinova</a> recently delivered Albero apartments, aiming to combine three key lifestyle elements: modern apartment living, proximity to transport, and access to green open spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4722 project_image_fid=240437]

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/albero-greensborough-4-poulter-avenue-greensborough">Albero</a> is positioned within walking distance of the Plenty River Trail and Poulter Reserve, placing natural amenity at the edge of daily life.&nbsp;

Kalparrin Gardens and Greensborough Park are also close by, offering access to expansive outdoor areas for both active recreation and quieter moments of reflection.

What distinguishes this location, however, is the balance it achieves between open space and service access. Greensborough Plaza, home to over 170 retailers, including major names like Woolworths, JB Hi-Fi, and Chemist Warehouse, is less than 500 metres away.&nbsp;

Adjacent Main Street offers a localised retail and dining experience, with cafés, restaurants, and community institutions woven into the suburb’s walkable core.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4722 project_image_fid=240458]

Public transport remains a core strength of the location. The redeveloped Greensborough Station, completed in 2022, is within short walking distance, linking residents to the broader Metro network and reducing dependency on car travel.&nbsp;

For those commuting by road, direct access to Greensborough Road and the Metropolitan Ring Road ensures broader connectivity across Melbourne’s north and east.

From an infrastructure and growth perspective, the area continues to benefit from public and private sector investment. Greensborough falls within a designated high-priority growth precinct, with projected population growth over the next two to five years supporting demand for additional housing stock, particularly for low-maintenance, well-situated dwellings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4722 project_image_fid=240452]

The suburb is well-serviced by educational institutions across all levels, including Greensborough College, Montmorency Secondary College, Greensborough Primary, and a number of preschools. This proximity makes the area particularly appealing to downsizers or multi-generational households looking to remain within a familiar community network.

Healthcare access is similarly convenient, with multiple general practices, specialist clinics, and physiotherapy providers within the immediate vicinity. Larger medical services, including Austin Hospital in Heidelberg, are a short drive away.

Albero’s one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments are ready for residents to move in.

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Albero in Greensborough brings walkability and green access to the fore

The City of Sydney has committed more than $150m to a new public square opposite Sydney Town Hall, with construction to start in 2028.

Framed by George, Pitt and Park streets, the square is central to the City of Sydney’s long-term vision of a city centre with plenty of space for people and public life.

Lord Mayor of Sydney Clover Moore AO said plans for a square outside Town Hall have been underway for more than 40 years and will be one of the biggest projects ever initiated by the City of Sydney.

“Like other major cities around the world, we need large, lively, welcoming civic spaces for the growing number of people living in and visiting Sydney,” the Lord Mayor said, adding that the central, public square will&nbsp;be the heart of the city.

“For more than three decades, the City of Sydney has been progressively acquiring properties opposite Town Hall to create space for a future Town Hall Square, and we’re excited to be in a position to deliver this incredible community asset.

“With ample trees and seats, it will be a place to sit on a weekday lunch break, home to large-scale events and gatherings like festivals, markets, celebrations and protests, and a meeting spot as iconic as the Town Hall steps.

“The extra public space along George Street has transformed the city centre, and this square will take our work creating a city for people even further.”

As part of a revitalisation of the precinct, the area between St Andrew’s Cathedral and the Sydney Town Hall is set for an upgrade with new paving, furniture, and lighting to be installed in 2027. The scope for this project is also being considered by the Council this month.

The square at Town Hall is one of three that the City of Sydney envisions as part of a transformation of Sydney. Linked by the newly pedestrianised George Street, it includes squares at Circular Quay and Central Station.

With the proposal approved by the Council on Monday, 12 May, the design for the square will be developed over the next year. The community will have the opportunity to provide feedback on a draft concept in 2026.

$150m plan to reshape Sydney's Town Hall into new public square to go ahead

Apartment living and Melbourne's Abbotsford come hand-in-hand, with well over half of those who live in Abbotsford calling an apartment home.&nbsp;

Despite the appetite for apartment living, there have been very few new apartment developments hit the suburb in the last decade.

Recognising this gap, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/sq-property">SQ Property</a> has launched Lulie, the first major apartment project in Abbotsford since the release of New Johnston in April 2024. Prior to that, it had been over four years since any new residential development entered the local market.

Located just 30 metres from Victoria Park Station, at the corner of Lulie and Johnston Streets, will comprise 60 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149640 project_image_fid=145]

The residences will be spread across two distinctive buildings, designed by Metaxas Architecture. The Johnston Street-facing building will rise five levels behind a classic red brick façade, echoing Abbotsford’s industrial heritage. Behind it, a taller seven-level building with a striking copper-clad and glass façade adds a modern contrast to the streetscape.

Inside, homes have been crafted with an emphasis on natural light, generous proportions, and timeless finishes. Floor-to-ceiling windows maximise northerly views over parkland, while interiors—curated by Air Design Studio—showcase warm materials, natural stone surfaces, and a soft tonal palette that connects with the outdoor environment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149640 project_image_fid=146]

Resident amenities have also been carefully considered. A co-working communal area caters to the continued rise of hybrid work lifestyles—an increasingly sought-after inclusion in new developments.

Sustainability and long-term environmental performance are core to Lulie’s design. The development includes secure car parking with provisions for electric vehicle charging, ensuring future-ready infrastructure from the outset.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149640 project_image_fid=150]

Situated within the Lower Johnston Street District, Lulie is surrounded by Abbotsford’s vibrant blend of industrial character and creative culture. The project is also just moments from the Yarra Trail, the Abbotsford Convent arts precinct, and the soon-to-be-upgraded Victoria Park Station, offering outstanding lifestyle and connectivity.

Realco agent Chris Koullapas is marketing Lulie.

Construction is already underway, with completion slated for 2026. Apartments at Lulie are priced from a competitive $600,000.

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Lulie brings new apartments to the edge of Victoria Park in Abbotsford

The Gold Coast has recorded the strongest unit price growth in the country over the past five years.

According to the latest data from Cotality, the median unit value on the Gold Coast is now just under $850,000. If compared to capital city median prices, it would rank second only to Sydney, where the median sits at $855,000.

However, the style of new apartment developments is pushing many buyers out of the market, with few projects offering homes under the $1 million mark. When they do, these more affordable options are typically the first to sell.

For buyers with budgets below $1 million, acting quickly is essential.

We’ve rounded up the best new apartment developments on the Gold Coast that still offer apartments priced under $1 million.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>What: Harbour Shores</h2>

<h3>Where: Biggera Waters</h3>

<h3>Who: Lewis Land</h3>

Palm House, the latest release at Lewis Land's multi-stage masterplan <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters">Harbour Shores</a>, has apartments on offer from $990,000.

Palm House builds on the momentum of the first stage of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/biggera-waters-qld-4216" target="">Biggera Waters</a>&nbsp;community, which is already under construction and over 50 per cent sold.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=336743]

Palm House introduces an exclusive collection of just 60 two and three-bedroom apartments across a seven-level building. The homes will feature open-plan interiors, expansive balconies, and contemporary finishes.

Residents of the new release will enjoy full access to&nbsp;Harbour Shores’ unmatched suite of resort-style amenities. The community will boast a 25-metre lagoon pool, a state-of-the-art gym, yoga studio, sauna, tennis courts, and an expansive 1.2km waterfront boardwalk.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=290031]

For families and outdoor enthusiasts, The Green parklands and a network of walking and cycling paths provide abundant green space to relax and play.

The Clubhouse, a social hub with indoor-outdoor entertaining spaces, will anchor community life, while on-site cafés and eateries, as well as proximity to Harbour Town Premium Outlets, ensure day-to-day convenience.

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&nbsp;

<h2>What: Villea Palm Beach</h2>

<h3>Where: Palm Beach</h3>

<h3>Who: Abadeen</h3>

National developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a>'s debut Gold Coast apartment development, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/villea-palm-beach-26-mawarra-street-palm-beach-qld-4221">Villea</a>, comes in with generously-sized two-bedroom apartments under $1 million.

The Palm Beach project, just 400 metres from the sand, is well under construction and will see its buyers move in well before Christmas. It features 69 two and three-bedroom apartments designed for owner-occupiers and downsizers.

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=336441]

Designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/bda-architecture" target="">BDA</a>&nbsp;Architecture, the eight-level building will maximize natural light in each apartment. The apartments will feature kitchens with premium stone benchtops, central islands, and integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances.

Additionally, each apartment will have balconies off the kitchen, living, and dining areas, offering either ocean or hinterland views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=336442]

Villea will also feature a resort-style pool, gym, barbecue area, and a convenient boutique retail strip at street level.

<h2>What: Corallo</h2>

<h3>Where: Palm Beach</h3>

<h3>Who: Changfa</h3>

Another Sydney-based developer, Changfa, is offering apartments under $1 million in Palm Beach.

Changfa, who has previously developed Lyra on Hope Island among several projects in Sydney's inner ring, has recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/corallo-palm-beach-5-palm-beach-avenue-qld-4221">Corallo</a>, where one-bedroom apartments start from $715,000.

Corallo, on the corner of Palm Beach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway, has been designed by Plus Architecture and will comprise around 113 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across a 21-level building.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Corallo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8173b9d-1c8d-4b27-9d75-f5b377487de6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-05-26%20at%201.28.28%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=967vcmMqsBbjuVU7DDB8wDr_VXi2n2cd" />

The second level of the building will home a swimming&nbsp;pool, cold plunge, steam room, sauna, gym, yoga space, fire pit, and barbecue and dining areas.

There will be a retail and dining precinct and street level.

<h2>What: Tapestry</h2>

<h3>Where: 39 Darrambal Street, Chevron Island QLD 4217</h3>

<h3>Who: SIERA</h3>

The remaining apartments at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/tapestry-chevron-island-39-darrambal-street-chevron-island">Tapestry</a>&nbsp;on Chevron Island start at just $9,000 over the $1 million threshold, so they just sneak into this list.

The 113 apartments, currently under construction by SIERA's in-house construction arm, have been designed by BDA for the owner-occupier looking for&nbsp;proximity to cultural and lifestyle amenities, such as the HOTA precinct, local cafes, and the Gold Coast beachfront.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=192961]

The residences feature floor-to-ceiling glazing, open-plan interiors, and premium finishes including European appliances and timber flooring. Outdoor areas are shaped by curved balconies designed to make the most of surrounding views.

The amenity is geared toward the rooftop, where there will be a pool, gym, sauna, coworking space, and communal gardens.

We’ve rounded up the best new apartment developments on the Gold Coast that still offer apartments priced under $1 million

Thornlie, WA mortgagee home sold for $145,000 loss

Staff reporter

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