In the penthouse market, buyers expect the highest level of detail in every aspect of the apartment, from the design and orientation to the finishes.

Respected Brisbane developer, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties</a>, left no stone unturned when crafting the penthouses atop <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/monarch-residences-toowong-600-coronation-drive-toowong">Monarch Residences</a>, one of the best riverfront apartment developments produced on the Brisbane River in decades.

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They knew exactly the clientele they were creating their apartments for, in part because their CEO, industry legend, Don O'Rorke, was one.

Don has opted to keep one of the penthouses in the recently revealed penthouse collection atop the two-tower development, now over 95 per cent sold and under construction by building giant Hutchinson's Builders.

We recently visited the Monarch Residences display suite, on site at&nbsp;at 600 Coronation Drive, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a>, to chat with Don and the team at Consolidated about what made the penthouse collection special.

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Don says the team worked closely with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">John Wardle Architects</a> and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>&nbsp;to create a collection of uncompromised focus on quality, timelessness, and attention to detail.

The final penthouses, created to evoke the same grandeur as a home just without the additional maintenance, range in size from 295 sqm to 347 sqm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113455 project_image_fid=302322]

They each have different floorplans, but the level of luxury is the same throughout, from soaring 3.4-metre-high ceilings to sweeping views of the Brisbane River and the city skyline from the riverfront terraces.

Everything in the penthouses is top-of-the-line. Herringbone European oak flooring features throughout the living areas, while the kitchen, fitted with a suite of&nbsp;premium V-ZUG Swiss appliances, is anchored by an oversized island bench with&nbsp;Dolce Vita quartzite.

Prospective penthouse buyers, as well as those who have been lucky enough to secure a piece of Monarch Residences, will be moving into the riverfront development in late 2025.

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The final penthouses, created to evoke the same grandeur as a home just without the additional maintenance, range in size from 295 sqm to 347 sqm.

Joel Robinson

"A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity": Don O'Rorke discusses the Monarch Residences Penthouse Collection

A growing family and a long-term commitment to a lifestyle that ticked all the boxes were the two key drivers behind the recent purchase of a penthouse at Killarney Ponds in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/box-hill-nsw-2765">Box Hill</a>.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/killarney-ponds-box-hill-4-alan-street-box-hill">Killarney Ponds</a>, the new development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/kellarney-developments">Kellarney Developments</a>&nbsp;that is slated for completion early next year, has been intentionally designed so it not only offers larger-scale apartments than any other new development in the area, but the community facilities to match, creating an environment where its residents can thrive privately and socially.

We recently spoke with a buyer of one of the penthouse apartments to hear firsthand why they bought in&nbsp;Killarney Ponds.

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The young family secured a two-level penthouse, with three bedrooms set privately on the second level, away from the main kitchen, living and dining space. The apartment, including terraces, spans around 140 sqm, one of the biggest apartments in Box Hill.

The buyer spoke not only about the rarity of such an apartment, but also about the facilities within the building that they intend to use. Residents will have access to&nbsp;a function room, outdoor barbecue area, and playground on level one, along with a gym and technology hub on level two.&nbsp;

There's also an exclusive rooftop terrace reserved just for the penthouse owners.

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Speaking about buying off the plan for the first time, the purchaser said it suited their needs because the family didn't need to move in straight away.

"We wanted to find the right place because this is a long-term decision that we're making for our family," the buyer said.

"It's a 10+ year decision for us, so we didn't want to rush into looking for an established place if we didn't need to. we would rather wait, and when we saw the opportunity, and say all the boxes were ticked, we jumped on it and it was a no-brainer."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22636 project_image_fid=297513]

It was the first time purchasing off the plan, and the buyer highlighted the effort taken by the McGrath Projects team to help them understand the process.

Reputable builder Sitecorp is approaching completion of the building, with internal fitout to commence soon after.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=22636]

Speaking about buying off the plan for the first time, the purchaser said it suited their needs because the family didn't need to move in straight away

Why apartments at Killarney Ponds in Box Hill are suiting the family buyer: Urban Buyer Q&A

Local downsizers have responded in droves to what prominent Perth developer, Megara, has put together in North Fremantle.

They've recently started construction at Serai, a new mid-rise apartment development designed specifically to cater to downsizers through its larger-than-normal floorplans, high-end fixtures and finishes, and an equally high level of resident facilities, something that tends to be looked upon favourably by those downsizing.

Over 80 per cent of the purchasers so far have been downsizers, predominantly locals, something which Megara knew they were going to see when they drew up the plans.

"We expected the local downsizer market to make up most of our purchasers," Megara Director Jamie Clarke says, adding that everything about the building and its location is tailor-made for that specific buyer demographic.

Megara worked with architect Felipe Soto who cleverly designed the two buildings to encapsulate everything locals love about North Fremantle; the coast and the river. Apartments feature floor-to-ceiling windows that draw in natural light and frame views of the Indian Ocean and Swan River.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=186198]

While downsizers have jumped at the largest apartments, the three and four-bedroom apartments, as well as the small collection of four-bedroom townhouses, the two and one-bedroom apartments have also proven popular.

"The well-trodden path for a downsizer is to trade out of the family home into a large apartment, so the downsize doesn't seem too daunting and they still have space to have extended family or guests stay, but that's not the path for everyone," Clarke says.

"Budgets naturally influence what you're going to move into, but we've had several downsizers opt for our one-bedroom apartments because they don't want, or need, the additional space. They want to lock the door and spend their retirement traveling."

The boom in the Perth market over the last few years has encouraged a stronger downsizer movement, Clarke says. So far in 2024, Perth house values have risen 18.2 per cent, the best-performing capital city by some margin. In turn, unit values have risen 21.3 per cent over the same period.

"The last few years have made the downsizing path easier as those who own larger family homes have seen their equity rise significantly in recent years, compared to fairly mooted growth in the years prior. There's no better time in the cycle to be looking at downsizing while both houses and apartments grow in value."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=186208]

Unforeseen, but not entirely surprising, have been purchases from those living in Sydney with family ties to Perth, as well as expats living overseas.

"They're buying now and securing themselves a residence for future use, whether it be on construction completion or shortly after.

"They also see great value compared to how far budgets stretch in coastal Sydney. They've been in the best-performing housing market for decades and have seen their wealth through property skyrocket. Now they're looking to return to Perth in the not too distant future."

Another facet of Serai that is appealing to the downsizer is the level of amenity within the building. Residents will have access to an infinity pool with unobstructed views over the Swan River, as well as a gym with a sauna and yoga studio, and an outdoor cinema.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=186200]

There’s also a games room, designed with social interaction in mind, featuring a pool and poker table.

The emphasis on community extends to the active street-level area, where a landscaped garden and café create spaces for residents to connect with neighbours.

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Clarke says having a high-level of amenity is important in modern-day buildings.

"Not just limited to downsizers, but people nowadays crave convenience, and if we can put a high-level of leisure facilities within their building, as well as a cafe, that really appeals to residents who don't have to go far for everything they need."

What has been an important factor to consider, particularly for locals, is the lack of new development coming to coastal areas like Fremantle. Future supply across most suburbs in Perth, particularly those near the coast, is as low as anywhere in the country.

"When we complete there will be almost nothing comparable to Serai, or anything under construction or even in planning currently. There won't be a lot of new stock that is competing within the immediate vicinity, and that's not lost on our buyers who know this is a rare opportunity," Clarke says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=186200]

Serai is under construction by builder West to West, with completion slated for early 2026.

Clarke says being under construction in today's built environment is a huge confidence lift for buyers.

"Prior to 2017 or 2018, buyers weren't really phased as to what stage the development was at," Clarke says.

"Now they're more informed than ever, and naturally want certainty and assurances their new apartment will actually be delivered. A small minority of buildings don't get delivered, but they're the ones that grab the headlines and dampen confidence across the board."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110291]

Serai is under construction by builder West to West, with completion slated for early 2026



Why Serai in North Fremantle is proving popular with downsizers

The first luxury waterfront apartments to be developed in almost a decade in North Queensland have been unveiled by Townsville developer Maidment Group.

Maidment Group, headed by long-time local developer Glen Maidment, has officially launched the $65 million Marina Residences, a collection of 18 luxury apartment on the last remaining site at the end of Mariner’s Peninsula off The Strand.&nbsp;

“We feel the time is right to deliver Marina Residences because there is such demand for luxury property in the region, but no product is available in the market,” said Glen Maidment, whose Maidment Group has developed in the Townsville region for the last 20 years.

“We bought the site some years ago and have planned meticulously to deliver a project that will set a new benchmark for North Queensland.

“Interest has been very strong prior to the formal release of the project and with seven sales already secured to pre-registered buyers prior to our November launch, this reflects the pent-up demand for luxury apartments in Townsville.”

<img alt="Maidment Group’s $65 million Marina Residences " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6d8b4f43-2948-4e47-a829-883b4a9713cb" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Apartment%201%20Living.jpeg?VersionId=9jpuSe9p5CWDNbMFgha.6lwIcwk428xd" />

Designed by Brisbane-based architect bureau^proberts,&nbsp;Marina Residences will rise 10 levels on a prime 1,400 sqm site at the end of Mariners Peninsula, which is located along Townsville’s iconic lifestyle destination of The Strand. The site was originally owned by publicly listed apartment developer Mirvac, which divested the site a decade ago.

Marina Residences offers a collection of 18 residences comprising 15 three-bedroom apartments and three Sky Homes – including the penthouse. Prices start from $2.7 million.

Residents will enjoy a suite of sophisticated resort-style amenities, including a gym, a private meeting room and a dining room, as well as a rooftop pool and sundeck that offers unobstructed vistas across the waterfront and east to Magnetic Island.

“Marina Residences is destined to become a landmark project that will redefine luxury living in the region,” Maidment added.

“We’ve spared nothing to create one of the most exciting new developments in the heart of Townsville. It’s sophisticated living at its best and undoubtedly one of the best projects we have ever presented to the market.”

Marina Residences builds on the success of Maidment Group’s first stage of its Mariners Peninsula offering - Marina Homes, which comprised eight luxury waterfront homes that were completed in mid-2024.

“The incredible success of Marina Homes, with all eight residences sold off the plan, highlights the strength of the Townsville market for luxury properties,” said Maidment.

“Among the potential buyers who have been looking to gain a foothold at Marina Residences are professionals and downsizers who are seeking the ultimate address on Townsville’s spectacular waterfront. They see this as the best address in town.”

<img alt="Maidment Group’s $65 million Marina Residences " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="749e718a-47b2-4cae-b623-a320258f5d50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Superman.jpeg?VersionId=5fA9yI5BqhyseHdVS6l5pqr4TkPzZoud" />

Marina Residences are priced from $2.7 million. Sky Home 1, which offers an expansive 495 sqm of living space, is set to smash sales records for the region.&nbsp;

“Sky Home 1 is the most significant residence to ever be released in North Queensland, presenting an incredible opportunity for the discerning buyer to secure a penthouse which compares to the very best ultra-luxury properties on offer throughout Queensland,” said Maidment.

“We believe the Townsville market is primed for residences of this calibre, and we have been firmly encouraged by the positive early response from the market. The economy is humming, and there is just no stock.”

The developer has appointed Hurst Constructions to deliver the project, extending Maidment Group’s long-standing relationship with the fellow Townsville-based business.

Marina Residences has recently been recognised with two prestigious awards at the recent 2024 UDIA Queensland Awards for Excellence, receiving accolades for Boutique Development and Regional Project of the Year for Stage 1 of the project, solidifying the demand for this exceptional property in the market.&nbsp;

In the wake of strong pre-sale commitments, Maidment plans to start construction of the Marina Residences apartment tower in January 2025. The project is scheduled for completion in late 2026.

Marina Residences offers a collection of 18 residences comprising 15 three-bedroom apartments and three Sky Homes – including the penthouse. Prices start from $2.7 million

Maidment Group to deliver Marina Residences, North Queensland's first waterfront apartments in a decade

NSW Government Announces Major Housing Reform to Streamline Approvals and Boost Supply 
In a bold move to address the state's housing crisis, the New South Wales (NSW) Government has unveiled plans to overhaul the housing approval process, aiming to cut red tape, speed up development, and deliver much-needed homes to the market faster.

The new initiative introduces a state-led approval pathway for large-scale residential housing projects, designed to bypass local council approval and significantly reduce approval timelines. This reform, set to take effect in early 2025, is part of a broader strategy to tackle the state's ongoing housing affordability issues and ensure that housing projects get off the ground more quickly.

<h2>The Housing Delivery Authority (HDA)</h2>

Central to the reform is the creation of the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA), a new body within the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. The HDA will oversee a streamlined approval process for major housing developments, focusing on projects with an estimated development cost of over $60 million in Greater Sydney (typically 100 or more homes) and $30 million in regional NSW (usually around 40 or more homes).

The HDA will be responsible for managing the approval process, including rezoning and development applications, which will no longer require approval from local councils. By eliminating the council approval stage, the government hopes to shorten approval times by potentially several years, facilitating quicker delivery of new housing across the state.

Key figures in the new authority include the Secretary of the Premier’s Department, Simon Draper; the Secretary of the Department of Planning, Kiersten Fishburn; and the CEO of Infrastructure NSW, Tom Gellibrand. Despite the changes, the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces will remain the final consent authority for any projects moving through this pathway.

<h2>A Shift Towards Faster, State-Managed Approvals</h2>

This reform addresses one of the most pressing issues in NSW’s housing market: the slow pace of housing development due to bureaucratic hurdles. Housing affordability has become a significant challenge for many residents, and the NSW Government has long acknowledged the disconnect between the demand for new housing and the ability of the planning system to deliver it.

The new state-led process aims to fast-track the approval of residential projects by allowing developers to submit their proposals directly to the HDA. Proposals will be assessed on merit, and planning controls will be applied flexibly to suit the needs of each development. This includes potentially making incremental zoning changes when necessary.

This approach is intended to make the approval process more efficient, enabling developers to proceed with projects that might otherwise be delayed or blocked by local council requirements. The government hopes these reforms will foster a more conducive environment for large-scale housing developments, helping to meet the growing demand for homes in NSW.

<h2>New Fast-Track Rezoning Process</h2>

In addition to the streamlined approval pathway, the NSW Government is also introducing a fast-track rezoning process for projects that require more significant zoning changes. This process will apply to developments that could provide a substantial increase in housing supply but need major rezoning to move forward. Like the development approvals, these projects will be chosen through an Expression of Interest (EOI) process managed by the HDA.

By allowing rezoning and development assessments to occur simultaneously, the reform aims to further speed up the planning process. Developers will submit their rezoning proposals directly to the HDA, which will assess them based on criteria aligned with the state’s housing priorities.

<h2>Impact on Local Councils</h2>

One of the anticipated benefits of these changes is a reduction in the number of large, complex development applications that local councils will need to assess. With the state assuming control over these major projects, councils can focus their resources on smaller, less complicated applications. This shift is expected to improve the efficiency of the overall planning system, allowing councils to allocate more time and effort to managing local development needs.

<h2>The Broader Context</h2>

These new measures are part of a series of reforms aimed at addressing housing affordability and supply issues that have plagued NSW for years. Other recent initiatives include:

- The largest rezoning in NSW history to unlock new housing opportunities. 
- Housing targets for councils to ensure a fair distribution of housing across Greater Sydney. 
- A $450 million investment to build new apartments for essential workers, including nurses, paramedics, teachers, and emergency responders. 
- The establishment of a land audit of vacant government-owned land, which will unlock 30,000 homes, including 8,400 public housing units. 
- A $5.1 billion investment in social and affordable housing.

Premier Chris Minns emphasized the urgency of these reforms, noting that previous governments had made it harder to build homes, leading to a growing crisis.

"For over a decade in NSW, governments have made it harder to build the homes we need, not easier – but this cannot continue if we want to be a city that young people can afford to live in," Minns said.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully echoed these sentiments, stating, "The Minns Government is doing everything in its power to tackle the housing crisis and encourage developers to build and boost housing supply and overall affordability."

Scully also criticized the previous government for adding unnecessary red tape that hindered the development of much-needed housing.

<h2>Looking Ahead</h2>

As the government prepares to roll out these reforms, they are also engaging in consultation with stakeholders to ensure the new system works for both developers and communities. The fast-tracked approval and rezoning processes, expected to come into effect in 2025, mark a significant shift in how housing is developed in NSW, with the state taking a more active role in shaping the future of housing delivery.

By cutting through bureaucratic delays and focusing on high-priority projects, the NSW Government hopes to improve housing affordability and provide more homes for the people who need them most, particularly in a state where the demand for housing continues to outstrip supply.

Premier Chris Minns emphasized the urgency of these reforms, noting that previous governments had made it harder to build homes, leading to a growing crisis

Richard Branson's former offsider David Baxby sells in Coogee

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