IHG Hotels & Resorts has expanded its alliance with developer Urban Property Group by signing two new projects in New South Wales. The deal introduces Crowne Plaza Newcastle and Hotel Indigo Gosford, increasing their shared pipeline to three sites across the state. Joining the previously agreed Crowne Plaza Parramatta, the developments form key elements of major mixed-use schemes designed to support economic and regional tourism growth.
Minor Hotels has announced plans to launch Australia's largest integrated resort wellness precinct in the Hunter Valley. Opening in stages from October 2026, Avani Cypress Lakes Resort will merge the existing Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort and Elysia Wellness Retreat into a 340-acre destination. Featuring 204 rooms, an 18-hole golf course and the debut of the AvaniWell concept, the complex caters to leisure, corporate and wellness travellers.
UAE developer Arada has expanded into Queensland with plans for an AED5 billion twin-tower residential development in Broadbeach on the Gold Coast. Marking its first project outside New South Wales, the scheme will deliver 952 homes ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Arada’s subsidiary, Roberts Co, will handle construction.
Private equity firm Blackstone has agreed to finance the purchase of HSBC’s Australian home loan portfolio, valued at A$36 billion (US$25 billion). The deal stands as the largest mortgage portfolio transaction globally. Non-bank lender Pepper Money will handle local loan servicing, ensuring a smooth transition for existing banking clients while expanding Blackstone's Asian credit operations.
Real asset manager ESR has appointed Reini Otter as Chief Executive Officer for its Australia and New Zealand operations. Based in Sydney, he will oversee regional growth, focusing on fund management, logistics real estate and data centres. He succeeds Phil Pearce, who established the regional branch in 2018 and now steps into the role of corporate President following the company's 2025 privatisation.
