Welcome to Issue 67 of The Property Development Review, exclusively for agents, developers and investors.
MARCH / APRIL 2026 - ISSUE NUMBER 70
EXCLUSIVELY FOR PROPERTY DEVELOPERS, INVESTORS & AGENTS ACROSS ASIA-PACIFIC
LISTINGS The latest commercial assets & development opportunities for sale from across Australia.
INTERVIEWS Exclusive feature profiles of the Country’s most successful business & property thought leaders
ANALYSIS Unique perspectives from the deal-makers on the ground.
Get quality developer-buyer leads. List on DevelopmentReady for access to Australia’s best network of purchase-ready developer buyers, for quality leads.
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2 – March / April 2026
WELCOME
CONTENTS
CONNECT WITH US THE PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT REVIEW: Online Issues: developmentready.com.au/content hub DEVELOPMENTREADY: Website: developmentready.com.au SoundCloud: /readymediagroup LinkedIn: @developmentready Facebook:/developmentready The Interview YouTube: @TheInterviewAU Instagram:@development_ready COMMERCIAL READY: Website: commercialready.com.au of projects across Australia’s property sector. As always, be sure to explore the latest National development site listings. Enjoy the read. In addition, contributors also highlight key market trends - from the resilience of industrial assets and evolving developer funding models to the strategic value of well-located land plus featuring the latest Market Moves. Together, these stories offer a snapshot of an industry in transition - where innovation, collaboration and strategic thinking continue to shape the next generation Leading this edition is a Ready Media Group feature, The Strategic Mind Behind Legal Tech: Christian Beck. In a rare conversation with Rob Langton on The Interview, Beck reflects on building one of the world’s most influential legal technology ecosystems. Starting with LEAP Legal Software in 1992, he reshaped law firm operations by embedding software at the core of legal workflows. This issue also includes several insight articles prepared by Ready Media Group exploring how developers, investors and advisors are adapting to a more selective capital environment. As funding becomes more disciplined, the importance of well-located projects, strong partnerships and strategic planning approvals continues to grow. The articles also highlight the increasing role of data-driven site acquisition, off-market opportunities and specialist platforms in connecting capital with development-ready projects.
04 THE INTERVIEW Christian Beck ATI Global
06 PREMIUM METROPOLITAN AND GROWTH CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT SITES ACROSS AUSTRALIA Ready Media Group
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06 DEVELOPMENT SITES
ALDI Aldi Greenlit for Billion-Dollar Aerotropolis Distribution Centre Clare Burnett The Urban Developer
Premium Metropolitan and Growth Corridor Development Sites
Across Australia Ready Media Group
32 NSW OPPORTUNITIES
09 DEVELOPMENT SUPPLY
5 Health & Medical Development Sites Developers Are Circling Right Now Ready Media Group MANUFACTURING Introduction to Manufacturing Zoning Ready Media Group RETAIL Introduction to Zoning and Property Development Ready Media Group OFFICE Introduction to Office Zoning Ready Media Group Development Supply Crunch Fuels Investor Rush, Report Reveals Ready Media Group
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CONSTRUCTION Multiplex Tops Out $194m Student Tower in Melbourne Taryn Paris The Urban Developer
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12 MEDICAL DEVELOPMENT SITES
72 48
VIC OPPORTUNITIES
BRISBANE DEVELOPMEN NEWS Brisbane development sites in 2026: Quality wins, creativity loses Robert Dunne Director Commercial Sales Savills Australia
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Linkedin: @commercialready Facebook:/commercialready Instagram: @commercial.ready ROOFTOP:
74
QLD OPPORTUNITIES
94 RESIDENTIAL
Website: rooftop.studio Vimeo:/rooftopstudio
18 WAREHOUSE & LOGISTICS Introduction to Warehouse and Logistics-Zoned Properties Ready Media Group 20 INDUSTRIAL What AI means for Australian Industrial property Vanessa Rader Head ofResearch,Ray White Group
Tallest Tower Backed for South Australia’s Best-Known Beach Chris Thomson The Urban Develope
Instagram: @rooftopstudio READY MEDIA GROUP: Website: readymedia.com.au
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SA OPPORTUNITIES
EDITOR IN CHIEF Frank Materia IN-HOUSE WRITERS Oliver Gregurek & Dimity Barber ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES frank@readymedia.com.au LISTING ENQUIRIES info@readymedia.com.au EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES editor@readymedia.com.au CONTACT Ready Media Group Head Office Levels 3&4/161 Buckhurst St South Melbourne VIC 3205 Email: info@readymedia.com.au Telephone: (03) 9631 5476 MAGAZINE DESIGN Nespecart ON THE COVER Rooftop Studio - Melbourne Yarra River & Skyline Scene
98 SPONSORED - AVENUE BANK Then vs Now: Bank Guarantees From Week to Hours
21 HYBRID WORKERS
101 HOTELS
Wollongong Named Top Commuter Town for Hybrid Workers in 2026 International Workplace Group
Boutique Reef Hotel Planned for WA’s Whale Shark Mecca Chris Thomson The Urban Developer
22 BANK GUARANTEES
102 WA OPPORTUNITIES 111 TAS OPPORTUNITIES
Reinventing the Bank Guarantee Peita Piper Chief Executive Officer of Avenue Bank
26 MARKET MOVES
Key transaction & deal analysis
February / March 2026 – 3
The Interview
CHRISTIAN BECK
ATI GLOBAL
With Rob Langton - Ready Media Group
THE STRATEGIC MIND BEHIND LEGAL TECH
This strategic decision proved critical. Instead of building optional software, Beck embedded LEAP into the operational DNA of legal practices. Once installed, the platform became extremely difficult to replace because it handled the core processes that kept firms running. Over time, LEAP expanded internationally, serving thousands of law firms across Australia, the UK, the United States, and beyond. But Beck was already thinking further ahead. Building the Rails Beneath the Legal System While LEAP was transforming internal law firm workflows, Beck realised another opportunity existed outside the firm itself. Legal professionals interact constantly with external systems: land registries, government databases, courts, company registries, and title searches. These interactions were often slow, fragmented, and reliant on manual processes. So Beck built another company to solve that problem. InfoTrack was designed to connect law firms directly to these external systems, effectively creating a digital gateway to the infrastructure of property and legal transactions. Where LEAP managed the internal operations of law firms, InfoTrack managed the external connections. The strategic brilliance of this move cannot be overstated. By linking legal practitioners directly with government registries, title offices, courts, and compliance databases, InfoTrack became the invisible rails underneath countless legal and property transactions. Searches, verifications, property certificates, and filings that once took hours or days could now be executed instantly within the same workflow environment used by lawyers.
For more than three decades, Christian Beck has quietly built one of the most powerful and integrated software ecosystems in the global legal industry. Unlike many tech founders who seek headlines, Beck has largely stayed out of the spotlight. Yet behind the scenes, his companies have become essential infrastructure for law firms, property transactions, and court processes across multiple jurisdictions. In a rare conversation with host Rob Langton on The Interview, Beck opens up about the strategic thinking behind the companies that now operate under the umbrella of ATI Global. The discussion offers a rare look into how a disciplined entrepreneur methodically built an ecosystem that dominates the legal technology sector - not through hype, but through relentless focus on solving industry problems. From Law Firm Frustration to Legal Software Dominance Beck’s journey began in 1992 with the founding of LEAP Legal Software. At the time, most law firms were operating with inefficient, largely manual workflows. Legal practitioners were drowning in paperwork, administrative processes, and disconnected systems. Beck saw an opportunity where others saw complexity. His solution was to digitise the operational backbone of law firms. LEAP was designed to streamline case management, document generation, time recording, billing, and compliance into one integrated system. While many software companies targeted superficial tools or add-ons, Beck focused on something deeper: making his platform indispensable to the daily functioning of a law firm.
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Discipline, Patience and Long-Term Thinking One of the most striking themes in the discussion is Beck’s commitment to long-term strategy. Where many technology founders prioritise rapid exits or valuations driven by venture capital markets, Beck has built his companies with a different objective: permanence. His businesses are designed to last. That philosophy shapes everything from product design to acquisition strategy. Rather than acquiring companies for short-term growth metrics, Beck looks for businesses that strengthen the ecosystem and deepen integration with legal and property workflows. This patient, disciplined approach has allowed his companies to grow steadily while maintaining strong control over the direction of the business. The result is a rare combination in the technology world: scale, profitability, and strategic independence. An Underrated Architect of Industry Infrastructure Today, the companies within ATI Global quietly power huge portions of the legal and property transaction landscape. Thousands of law firms depend on their platforms daily. Millions of searches, filings, and transactions move through their systems. Entire workflows are built around their technology. Yet outside the legal industry, Beck’s name remains largely unknown. That anonymity may be exactly how he prefers it. In many ways, Beck represents a different model of technology founder - one less concerned with visibility and more focused on infrastructure. He has not simply built software. He has built the operational backbone of an industry. A Rare Window Into Strategic Thinking This Interview, hosted by Rob Langton offers an unusual opportunity to hear directly from one of Australia’s most influential but least visible business figures. It reveals the mindset behind three decades of disciplined growth, ecosystem building, and strategic positioning. For entrepreneurs, the lessons are profound: Build products that solve real operational problems. Focus on integration, not isolation. Play the long game. Christian Beck may not chase headlines, but his impact on the legal technology landscape is undeniable. And as the legal and property industries continue to digitise, the infrastructure he has built is likely to remain at the centre of how those systems operate for decades to come.
Critically, InfoTrack integrated seamlessly with LEAP. Together, the two platforms created a powerful ecosystem that spanned both sides of legal work - internal firm management and external regulatory interaction. The more law firms used LEAP, the more natural it became to use InfoTrack. The more InfoTrack connected to external systems, the more valuable the ecosystem became. Competitors were no longer competing with a single product. They were competing with an entire infrastructure. The Ecosystem Strategy Today these businesses operate within the broader technology group ATI Global, which Beck founded to house and expand the growing network of legal and property technology companies. The strategy behind ATI Global reflects Beck’s long-term approach to business. Rather than building isolated products, he focuses on building ecosystems - interconnected services that reinforce one another and compound their value over time. Each company within the ATI Global structure plays a role in strengthening the broader network. Software powers law firm operations. Platforms connect firms to government systems. Services automate compliance, property transactions, and data access. Together they form a vertically integrated system that is deeply embedded within the legal and property industries. And because these services operate at the operational core of law firms, they are extraordinarily resilient. Replacing them would require law firms to re-engineer entire workflows -something few businesses are willing to do once the systems are functioning efficiently. A Founder Who Avoids the Spotlight Despite building a multi-billion-dollar technology empire, Beck has remained intensely private. Unlike many founders in the technology sector, he has never positioned himself as a media personality or startup celebrity. There are no flashy product launches, no venture capital roadshows, and no constant media appearances. Instead, Beck has spent decades focused on product development, industry relationships, and strategic expansion. His philosophy is simple: build something that becomes essential. In the conversation on The Interview, Beck reflects on the patience required to build businesses that last decades rather than years. He speaks about avoiding short-term thinking and resisting the temptation to chase trends or hype cycles. Instead, his focus has always been on solving real operational problems for professionals who rely on reliability and accuracy. In industries like law and property, trust and consistency matter more than novelty. Beck understood that early.
SCAN OR CLICK TO WATCH THE VIDEO INTERVIEW IN FULL
March / April 2026 – 5
Development Sites
PREMIUM METROPOLITAN AND GROWTH CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT SITES ACROSS AUSTRALIA
Prepared by Ready Media Group
These are a current selection of premium development sites currently listed on Development Ready. Each opportunity is positioned within an established metropolitan market or high-growth corridor and offers developers a clear pathway to value creation, supported by strong demand fundamentals and ongoing infrastructure investment.
Lot 1 Baden Drive, Wandong VIC 3758 Brought to market by Stonebridge's Lucas Gentile, Julian White and Chao Zhang. Located within Melbourne’s northern growth corridor, this Wandong site presents a significant development opportunity positioned to benefit from expanding residential demand and improving transport connectivity. The area continues to experience population growth driven by affordability and accessibility to greater metropolitan Melbourne. With scale and strategic positioning within an emerging community, the property offers developers flexibility to deliver a project aligned with long-term regional expansion.
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51 Empire Drive, Yatala QLD 4207 Brought to market by CBRE's David Corke and Myles Clentsmith. Positioned within the Yatala Enterprise Area between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, this development site benefits from strong industrial and commercial demand across South East Queensland’s key logistics corridor. Yatala continues to experience sustained occupier growth driven by population expansion and transport infrastructure connectivity. The property’s strategic positioning within an established employment precinct supports a range of development outcomes aligned with ongoing economic activity in the region. 1–13 Light Terrace, Thebarton SA 5031 Brought to market by Collier's Justin Hazell, Jordan Schmidt and Rhys Newman. Situated on the fringe of the Adelaide CBD, this Thebarton site occupies a tightly held inner-metro position within a rapidly evolving mixed-use precinct. The location benefits from proximity to Adelaide’s biomedical, education and commercial hubs, as well as strong transport connectivity. Thebarton continues to attract urban renewal activity supported by infrastructure upgrades and increasing residential density. The site presents a compelling opportunity for developers seeking exposure to Adelaide’s inner-city growth story. 47 (Lot S7) Stockade Avenue, Coburg VIC 3058 Brought to market by Collier's Travis Keenan and Ervin Niyaz. Located within Melbourne’s inner north, this Coburg site presents a rare infill development opportunity within a well-established metropolitan suburb. Coburg continues to benefit from strong residential demand, public transport connectivity and proximity to the Melbourne CBD. The area’s evolving urban profile and limited supply of developable land underpin ongoing developer interest. The site’s positioning within a tightly held precinct supports high-quality residential or mixed-use outcomes. 18-20 Bancroft Avenue & 23-27 Lord Street, Roseville, NSW 2069 Brought to market by Collier's Guillaume Volz, Eugene White and Daniel McMahon. Situated within Sydney’s affluent Upper North Shore, this Roseville development opportunity occupies a blue-chip suburban position supported by strong demographics and established amenity. Roseville benefits from excellent transport connectivity to Sydney’s CBD, highly regarded education institutions and a tightly held residential market. The suburb’s enduring demand fundamentals and limited land availability make this site particularly attractive for developers seeking exposure to premium metropolitan Sydney.
March / April 2026 – 7
8 – March / April 2026
Development Supply
THE PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
DEVELOPMENT SUPPLY CRUNCH FUELS INVESTOR RUSH, REPORT REVEALS
Prepared by Ready Media Group
New property developments in Australia are becoming increasingly rare, leaving investors and tenants feeling the squeeze.
Economic rents for premium offices have already surged more than 60 per cent between 2020 and 2025. Net effective rent growth is forecast at 7.3 per cent in Brisbane and 6.6 per cent in Sydney, with Melbourne on track to recover from 2027 onwards. “At this stage, prospects of reducing supply are bringing forward occupier decisions,” Mr Chopra said. “This should manifest in downward pressure on incentives.” POPULATION AND WEALTH FUEL DEMAND The market squeeze is playing out against a backdrop of moderate economic growth. Australia is projected to expand by 2 per cent in 2026, with interest rates largely stable. Inflation should ease in the second half of the year to 3.2 per cent, while unemployment may edge up to 4.6 per cent, with job growth skewed toward care and white-collar sectors. Population, driven heavily by immigration, is another key factor, with 240,000 new migrants expected this year. The report highlights a “triple boost” for consumer-facing real estate: rising population, rising jobs, and rising incomes, collectively adding an estimated $1 trillion of wealth over the next decade, a significant share of which will flow into housing, retail, and leisure. “Real estate demand has a close relationship with population growth,” Mr Chopra said. “We expect that for every one million people, an additional 800,000 sqm of shopping centre space, 11,500 hotel rooms and 420,000 apartments are needed.
CBRE’s 2026 Pacific Market Outlook predicts that new developments will fall 20–50 per cent short of historical levels for the rest of the decade, limiting options and creating a mounting urgency to act. CBRE warns that the supply shortfall will tighten competition for existing assets in 2026, due to a phenomenon dubbed ‘TINA’ - There Is No Alternative. We spoke with Sameer Chopra, CBRE’s Head of Research, Pacific, to find out how these conditions are likely to play out in the market. WINNERS IN A CONSTRAINED MARKET With the pipeline drying up, attention is shifting to assets that deliver income and resilience. Premium properties near emerging infrastructure such as metro lines, airports, or defence sites are positioned to withstand disruption. “We expect increasing demand from people to live and work close to major infrastructure,” Mr Chopra said. “Commute times are a key consideration in residential, and likewise having purpose-built airport and toll-roads to assist in moving freight adds to the value proposition.” The report identifies the strongest performers in 2026 as: • Offices in Brisbane and Canberra
• Industrial property in Adelaide and Brisbane • Shopping centres in Sydney and Melbourne • Apartments in Gold Coast and Perth
RISING TRANSACTION ACTIVITY AND RENT GROWTH Transaction activity is set to accelerate this year, with volumes projected to rise 5-10 per cent, led by faster growth in the office sector.
March / April 2026 – 9
Office
INTRODUCTION TO OFFICE ZONING
Prepared by Ready Media Group
Urban renewal projects, transport upgrades, and changing workplace patterns are driving demand for office space across Australia’s major cities and growth corridors. These changes are affecting not only where businesses want to locate, but also where office developments are allowed under planning regulations.
2. E1 Zoning: Business and commercial zones that encourage office activity and mixed-use development, often with supporting residential components. 3. T Zoning: Tourist-focused zones that may allow office uses connected to hospitality, travel, and visitor services. HOW TO NAVIGATE LOCAL ZONING MAPS Zoning maps are one of the most valuable tools in the site selection process. They show where development is permitted, what restrictions apply, and how neighbouring land is regulated.
For investors and developers, understanding zoning - the rules dictate what can be built and where - has never been more critical. A site that looks suitable on paper may be constrained by height limits, parking requirements, heritage overlays, or neighbouring land uses. Others that appear unremarkable may sit within precincts earmarked for future intensification. This guide explains how to identify office-zoned properties, interpret planning controls, navigate approval pathways, and apply practical search strategies to uncover sites with genuine development potential. TYPES OF ZONING CATEGORIES Office developments sit within several different zoning frameworks. Understanding how these categories operate, and how they differ between councils and states, is essential for investors and developers. COMMON ZONING TYPES APPLICABLE TO OFFICES 1. C2 Zoning: Commercial centre zones designed to serve local communities. These areas may support small offices alongside retail and service businesses.
EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES FOR USING ZONING MAPS
1. Access local government portals: Most councils publish zoning maps online, which allow users to view zoning, overlays, and development controls at a parcel level. 2. Use third-party platforms: Services such as Landchecker consolidate zoning, planning, and title data in one place, making preliminary screening faster and more efficient.
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2. Consult specialists: Valuers and planning consultants can model likely market responses. 3. Conduct cost-benefit analysis: Compare rezoning costs, holding periods, and risk against potential uplift. Case studies can also provide critical learning opportunities. Recent rezonings in parts of Sydney and Melbourne, for example, have transformed low-value sites into high-demand office precincts. It pays to study both successes and setbacks, drawing lessons from what has worked—and what hasn’t—to inform smarter decisions. TRENDS IN OFFICE ZONING Office zoning evolves in response to changing work practices and urban planning priorities. Some recent trends to watch include: • Greater support for co-working and flexible office models. • Incentives for energy-efficient and sustainable buildings. • Expanded mixed-use zoning in transport-oriented precincts. Investors who monitor these shifts are better placed to acquire sites that remain relevant as market conditions change. THE FINAL WORD Finding office-zoned development property is fundamentally about research, timing, and judgement. Strong outcomes are rarely driven by chance. Practical tips include: • Know your zone : Review height limits, floor space ratios, parking controls, and overlays. • Track planning chang es: Monitor council strategies, draft LEPs, and precinct plans for signals of future rezoning. • Stress-test approvals: Speak with planners before committing to confirm whether your intended use is realistically achievable. • Use multiple data source s: Cross-check council maps, planning portals, and commercial platforms to avoid blind spots. A structured approach, combining zoning analysis, market insight, and professional advice, improves the odds of identifying sites that are workable, defensible, and commercially sound.
3. Consult local professionals: Experienced agents and planning consultants can interpret zoning maps in context and flag practical issues that are not obvious from documentation alone. Used together, these tools help narrow searches to sites that are both legally viable and commercially workable. UNDERSTANDING LOCAL COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS Every development proposal sits within a formal approval framework. Understanding that framework early reduces delays, redesign costs, and approval risk. APPLICATION PROCESSES FOR PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT 1. Development Applications (DAs): Most office developments require a DA outlining design, use, and compliance with planning controls. 2. Environmental assessments: Some projects trigger environmental, traffic, or heritage assessments. 3. Stakeholder consultations : Community engagement is often required, particularly in established urban areas. Projects that factor compliance into site selection are far more likely to progress smoothly. STRATEGIES FOR FINDING OFFICE-ZONED PROPERTIES Successful site acquisition is built on systematic research, strong networks, and consistent market monitoring. PRACTICAL TECHNIQUES FOR PROPERTY ACQUISITION 1. Market research: Track precincts benefiting from transport upgrades, rezoning, or urban renewal. These areas often deliver early-stage opportunities. 2. Networking: Industry groups, agents, and development forums frequently surface off-market or pre-listing opportunities. 3. Auctions and listings: Commercial auction programs and specialist platforms remain important sources of stock, particularly in secondary markets. A disciplined search process improves both deal quality and negotiating leverage. ASSESSING THE FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF ZONING CHANGES Zoning changes can materially affect land values, development yields, and exit options. These impacts should be assessed before committing capital. HOW TO EVALUATE ZONING IMPACT ON PROPERTY VALUE 1. Review historical trends: Examine how previous rezonings affected values in comparable locations.
March / April 2026 – 11
Medical Development Sites
5 HEALTH & MEDICAL DEVELOPMENT SITES DEVELOPERS ARE CIRCLING RIGHT NOW
Prepared by Ready Media Group
Australia’s home for property development brings together a selection of high-quality health and medical development opportunities currently available across the country. Each site is positioned within established metropolitan or high-growth catchments and offers developers a clear pathway to value creation, supported by ageing demographics, healthcare demand and expanding community infrastructure.
110–118 Grey Street, East Melbourne VIC 3002 Brought to market by Stone Bridges Julian White, Max Warren, Dylan Kilner and Chao Zhang. Located on the edge of Melbourne’s CBD within one of the city’s most established medical precincts, this East Melbourne site benefits from immediate proximity to major hospitals and specialist healthcare facilities. The area continues to attract medical and allied health demand due to its central positioning and transport connectivity. The site presents a compelling opportunity for developers seeking exposure to Melbourne’s tightly held health and medical ecosystem.
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29 Millers Road, Eight Mile Plains QLD 4113 Brought to market by RWCs Grant Turner and Mukhtaar Hashim. Located within Brisbane’s southern corridor, this Eight Mile Plains site sits within an established commercial and healthcare catchment. The suburb benefits from strong transport connectivity and proximity to major arterial networks. South East Queensland continues to experience sustained population growth, increasing demand for medical and allied health infrastructure. The site offers flexibility for health-focused development within a proven suburban employment hub. 7 Argyle Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 Brought to market by Colliers' Jordan McConnell and Swami Vishwanathan. Situated within the heart of Parramatta’s CBD, this centrally positioned site offers strong alignment with Western Sydney’s expanding healthcare and commercial infrastructure. Parramatta continues to evolve as Sydney’s second CBD, supported by major public and private investment in health, transport and employment. The property’s metropolitan positioning makes it well suited to medical, specialist or mixed-use health outcomes. 11–15 Pacific Avenue, Miami QLD 4220 Brought to market by Canfords Roland Evans and Angus Cottrell. Positioned within the rapidly growing Gold Coast corridor, this Miami site benefits from strong surrounding residential density and lifestyle-driven migration. The Gold Coast continues to experience rising demand for private health, specialist and community-based medical services. The property’s strategic coastal positioning supports a range of health, medical or mixed-use development outcomes aligned with the region’s expanding population base. 4–6 & 7 Cassandra Place, Carlingford NSW 2118 Brought to market by CBRE's Lord Darkoh and Raymond Ahsan. Located within Sydney’s north-west growth corridor, this Carlingford site benefits from strong local demographics and proximity to established residential communities. The area continues to attract investment driven by transport upgrades and population growth. The property presents an opportunity to deliver health or medical-focused development within a suburban catchment supported by long-term community demand.
March / April 2026 – 13
Manufacturing
INTRODUCTION TO MANUFACTURING ZONING
Prepared by Ready Media Group
Manufacturing-zoned land has become one of the most contested and strategic assets in the Australian property market.
explain whether a site can legally support manufacturing, logistics, or heavy industry. UTILISING ZONING MAPS Most councils publish their planning schemes and zoning maps online. These maps use colour coding, symbols, and overlays to show whether manufacturing is permitted, allowed with approval, or restricted. Overlays may also flag flood risk, environmental protection, heritage controls, or transport corridors - all of which can affect development costs, timeframes, and projected returns. To use zoning maps properly, developers need to understand how to read the symbols, overlays, and colour codes that define permitted and conditional uses. Each map includes a legend outlining allowable activities such as manufacturing, logistics, commercial, or mixed-use development. DEVELOPMENT PLANS AND LOCAL COUNCIL ASSESSMENT Local councils play a central role in assessing development applications. While the criteria differ between states and municipalities, councils typically evaluate industrial developments against land-use intent, environmental impact, infrastructure capacity, and economic benefit. Engaging with council planners early is one of the most effective ways to reduce risk. Early discussions can clarify what will and
Manufacturing zoning refers to land set aside by local governments for industrial activity, including factories, warehouses, processing plants, and distribution centres. If you are buying, developing, or repositioning industrial property, understanding these rules is critical. They determine what you can build, how you can operate, and whether a project will ever be approved. Zoning laws set the ground rules. They regulate building height, noise limits, truck access, operating hours, and the types of businesses allowed on site. Each state and council uses slightly different labels and planning systems, but nationally, manufacturing zones exist to protect industrial land and support economic growth. For investors, these zones often signal long- term value — if you know how to work within the system. This guide explains how to identify manufacturing-zoned sites, assess their true development potential, and navigate the planning and approval process with confidence. For more, check out our Australian Building & Zoning Codes. IMPORTANCE OF ZONING MAPS AND DEVELOPMENT PLANS Zoning maps are the starting point for every serious industrial property deal. They show, parcel by parcel, what kind of development is allowed and what is restricted. Before contracts are signed or feasibility studies commissioned, these maps
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•
Non-bank and private financiers
will not be supported, identify site constraints, and outline the likely approval pathway. EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES FOR FINDING MANUFACTURING ZONED PROPERTIES High-quality industrial land rarely sits on public listings for long. Finding the right site requires a strategic approach that combines research, professional networks, and market intelligence. RESEARCHING AVAILABLE PROPERTIES Commercial property platforms, specialist industrial brokers, and planning databases are essential tools. Many listings include zoning details, development controls, and infrastructure information. Industrial-focused agents can also provide valuable insights and access to on-market and off-market opportunities. NETWORKING AND COMMUNITY INSIGHT Industry networks remain one of the most reliable ways to identify emerging industrial opportunities. Relationships with planning consultants, engineers, and commercial agents, along with participation in economic development forums and industry associations, can provide early insight into rezonings, infrastructure upgrades, and off-market sites. While local knowledge is valuable, these channels operate across both metropolitan and regional markets nationwide. This applies in capital cities and regional centres alike. Local insight often determines who secures the best sites. REGULATORY COMPLIANCE AND DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGES Regulatory compliance is a critical consideration for any manufacturing or industrial development, regardless of state or municipality. UNDERSTANDING COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS Industrial developments are typically subject to multiple layers of regulation, including: • Zoning and planning controls • Environmental impact assessments • Traffic and infrastructure requirements • Building code compliance The challenge is that approvals are rarely handled by one authority. Projects may involve councils, state agencies, environmental regulators, and utility providers. Coordination failures can lead to delays and cost overruns. RESOLVING CONFLICTS AND NAVIGATING RED TAPE The most successful developers take a proactive approach to approvals. They engage experienced planning consultants, commission technical reports early, and maintain active communication with regulators. Submitting a strong development application that clearly explains how the project meets planning goals, supports jobs, manages environmental impacts, and integrates with local infrastructure can improve outcomes and ensure the development progresses smoothly. FINANCING MANUFACTURING DEVELOPMENTS Industrial property development is capital-intensive. Funding structure often determines whether a project succeeds. Securing Finance Funding sources typically include: • Major banks and commercial lenders
•
Joint venture partners
• Government-backed programs Lenders assess industrial projects based on a range of criteria, including land value, location, tenant demand, and market conditions. CASE STUDIES OF SUCCESSFUL INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS Studying successful developments can provide clear lessons on site selection, compliance, and execution. Successful projects tend to share common features: • Access to major transport corridors • Strong demand from end users • Early engagement with regulators • Realistic construction and funding plans While planning settings differ between states, the underlying principles of zoning, strong due diligence, and early stakeholder engagement apply nationally. Environmental Considerations in Industrial Development Environmental performance is an increasingly important factor in industrial property development across Australia. IMPORTANCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTS Environmental assessments identify risks such as contaminated soil, flood exposure, groundwater impacts, and biodiversity constraints. Addressing these issues early is cheaper than fixing them after acquisition. Remediation costs, for example, can turn an apparently cheap site into a financial liability. Most states require formal environmental reviews for significant industrial projects. These processes are technical and should be managed by qualified specialists. CASE FOR SUSTAINABILITY Sustainable design is increasingly linked to commercial performance. Energy-efficient buildings reduce operating costs. Water recycling lowers utility bills. Solar and battery systems improve resilience. Green certifications can attract high-quality tenants and institutional investors. From a market perspective, sustainability is part of asset quality, and properties that fail to adapt may face higher vacancy and lower valuations over time. THE FINAL WORD Finding and developing manufacturing-zoned land in Australia requires more than market optimism. It demands technical knowledge, disciplined research, strong networks, and careful management of regulatory and financial risk. While planning systems differ between states, the fundamentals are consistent: • Understand the zoning • Do your research • Network to discover early opportunities • Build relationships with industrial agents and consultants • Engage with councils • Manage approvals professionally In a tightening industrial land market, informed preparation can help unlock manufacturing development opportunities, reduce risk and improve project outcomes.
March / April 2026 – 15
Retail
INTRODUCTION TO ZONING AND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT
Prepared by Ready Media Group
Retail development is accelerating across Australian cities, but prime sites are scarce and highly sought after.
zoning decisions and maintaining land use plans that reflect community objectives and growth initiatives. Consulting local resources and engaging with council representatives can provide valuable insights into the zoning landscape, making it easier to find suitable retail- zoned properties. Zoning Maps and Tools One of the most effective ways to locate retail-zoned properties is through zoning maps. These maps illustrate zoning classifications across different regions, highlighting where retail activities are permitted. Many Australian states offer online planning portals, which allow users to easily access zoning maps and detailed land use information. Familiarising yourself with these tools can streamline the property search process and help identify viable locations for investment.
Understanding zoning is essential: it dictates what can be built, how it can operate, and which regulatory hurdles need to be navigated. Misreading the rules can delay approvals, add costs, and limit profitability. This guide explains how to navigate Australia’s zoning landscape, locate retail-zoned properties, engage with councils, and apply practical strategies to secure sites with genuine development potential. UNDERSTANDING ZONING REGULATIONS IN AUSTRALIA Zoning Laws and Local Government Australian zoning laws vary widely by state and territory, affecting everything from the type of development permissible to the application process for zoning permits. Local councils are responsible for making
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STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL ENGAGEMENT • Host Community Meetings: Present your project and gather feedback. • Address Concerns Transparently: Explain mitigation measures and benefits. • Incorporate Feedback: Adjust proposals where feasible to reflect community priorities. CASE STUDIES AND REAL-LIFE APPLICATIONS To better understand the landscape of retail-zoned development, examining successful case studies can provide invaluable insights. Key takeaways include: • Importance of Community Engagemen t: Early and open communication with the community can mitigate opposition. • Know Your Regulations: Familiarity with local zoning laws and proactive engagement with the council can streamline the approval process. • Conduct Market Analysis: Thorough research on market demand and zoning conditions can make a significant difference in successful property investment. THE FINAL WORD Retail-zoned development properties offer substantial growth potential, but success depends on understanding the regulatory landscape, market dynamics, and community context. Remember to: • Study Zoning Regulations: Know state and local rules before identifying sites. • Use Maps and Tools: Access zoning maps and planning portals to narrow your search. • Engage With Councils: Build relationships and clarify restrictions or upcoming changes. • Research the Market: Target areas with strong retail demand and growth potential. These steps will help you make informed, practical decisions and secure retail-zoned space that supports operations and growth.
LOCATING RETAIL ZONED PROPERTIES Finding suitable retail-zoned sites requires a structured approach combining research, professional guidance, and council engagement. Research Strategies Online tools and zoning databases provide insights into current land use and zoning designations. • Conduct Online Searches: Use planning portals and commercial real estate platforms to filter properties by retail zoning. • Analyse Market Trends: Identify areas with rising demand for retail space and strong foot traffic potential. • Consult Real Estate Agents: Engage agents specialising in commercial properties to access off- market listings and insider knowledge. ENGAGING WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENTS Councils hold key information about zoning changes, development applications, and upcoming opportunities: • Request Information: Ask for detailed zoning reports on specific sites. • Attend Council Meetings: Observe proposals, approvals, and local sentiment that could affect projects. • Network with Council Staff: Build relationships to stay informed about future zoning decisions and development prospects. COMMUNITY IMPACT AND ENGAGEMENT Community input can make or break a retail development project. Public perception influences council approvals, and early engagement helps mitigate opposition. THE ROLE OF COMMUNITY FEEDBACK Residents’ concerns about traffic, noise, or environmental impacts can influence zoning outcomes. Developers who engage proactively reduce delays and strengthen project credibility.
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Warehouse & Logistics
INTRODUCTION TO WAREHOUSE AND LOGISTICS-ZONED PROPERTIES
Prepared by Ready Media Group
Warehouse and logistics properties are at the centre of Australia’s industrial real estate boom, driven by the rise of e-commerce and the demand for faster, smarter supply chains.
allowed on a property, which directly influences its value and potential for development. Properties zoned for industrial use can accommodate structures designed for manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. Compliance with zoning laws can maximise your property's potential. For example, certain zones may have less restrictive regulations on building heights or operational hours, which can be beneficial for logistics operations. For more information on zoning, check out Australian Building & Zoning Codes. NAVIGATING PLANNING PORTALS Each state has its own planning portal, and knowing how to use these is a critical resource for locating and assessing potential properties: 1. Search by Property: Use addresses or parcel numbers to locate precise zoning information. 2. Use the Spatial Viewer: Examine zoning maps and classifications across regions.
Sites zoned for industrial use - designed for storage, distribution, and logistics - have shifted from routine assets to strategic locations that can define operational efficiency and investment returns. Understanding which sites allow these activities and how to navigate the regulations that govern them is critical. From zoning regulations and market trends to council engagement and investment strategies, this guide provides a practical roadmap to identify and secure warehouse and logistics-zoned properties across Australia. UNDERSTANDING ZONING REGULATIONS Zoning dictates how land can be used and what types of structures are permitted. For investors, these classifications directly influence operational capacity, development potential, and long-term value. THE ROLE OF ZONING IN PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT Zoning classifications determine the type of activities
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Evaluating these approaches ensures alignment with business objectives and investment priorities. CASE STUDIES OF SUCCESSFUL INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS Examining successful case studies of high-profile distribution centres in major logistics hubs can provide invaluable insights. Key takeaways include: • Engage councils early to clarify regulations and approvals. • Conduct thorough due diligence before purchase. • Plan for scalability and future growth in site design. Understanding these factors helps replicate success in industrial property investment.
3. Review Planning Certificates and DAs: Understand development permissions and restrictions in detail. Mastering these tools clarifies what’s permissible on each site and supports better investment decisions. EVALUATING MARKET TRENDS Current Demand in Industrial Real Estate Demand for warehouse and logistics properties is surging, particularly for last-mile delivery hubs near urban centres. Investors should assess: • Proximity to major highways, ports, and airports. • Availability of skilled labour in the area. • Infrastructure readiness, including utilities and connectivity. Key Evaluation Criteria for Investment When analysing potential properties, focus on: • Location: Efficient access to transport networks reduces costs and improves supply chain speed. • Accessibility: Ensure ease of movement for vehicles and employees. • Financial Metrics: Review rental yields, capitalisation rates, and projected growth based on market forecasts. These metrics help identify high-performing properties while mitigating investment risks. STRATEGIES FOR FINDING PROPERTIES Locating the right warehouse and logistics-zoned properties involves using a mix of online tools and expert resources. USING KEY PLATFORMS Digital listings are an essential starting point. Platforms like CommercialReady and DevelopmentReady provide comprehensive information, including zoning classification, land size, and development history. Development Approval (DA) tracking tools can also help you stay updated on developments in your target area. DIRECT PURCHASE VS. WORKING WITH AGENTS Choosing the right acquisition method depends on strategy and experience. While working with agents can yield unique insights and access to exclusive listings, direct purchases can save on commission costs. Consider these pros and cons: • Agents: Provide access to off-market and pre-market listings, expert negotiation and local market knowledge. • Direct Purchases: Offer savings on commission and control over the purchasing process
LOCAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENTS
Overview of Available Grants and Support Programs Government initiatives can enhance project feasibility. Search for financial incentives, grants for infrastructure improvements, and zoning adjustments to reduce costs and improve Return on Investment. Engaging with local governments can unlock additional resources tailored to boost industrial development. FUTURE INFRASTRUCTURE INSIGHTS Investors should monitor upcoming projects, such as new transport links, road expansions, and logistics networks. Properties near planned infrastructure gain value and operational advantages, offering a strategic edge. THE FINAL WORD Warehouse and logistics zoned properties are high-value, strategic assets, but success depends on more than location. Understanding zoning regulations, tracking market trends, leveraging digital platforms, and engaging with local governments is essential to securing sites that support efficient operations and long-term growth. Key actions to keep in mind: • Study Zoning Rules: Review state and local regulations before assessing sites. • Monitor Market Trends : Focus on areas with rising demand for logistics and industrial operations. • Engage Government: Clarify zoning restrictions, approvals, and available support programs. • Assess Operational Value: Check access to transport networks, scalability, and infrastructure readiness. A structured approach that combines zoning analysis, market insight, and professional guidance will help you find properties that fit your operational requirements and offer genuine potential.
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