{{ propApi.closeIcon }}
Our industry
Our industry $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Housing industry insights Economics Insights Data & forecasts Tailored research & analysis Advocacy & policy Advocacy Policy priorities Position statements Submissions News & inspiration Industry news Member alerts Media releases HOUSING Online
Business support
Business support $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
For your business Contracts Online Safety systems & solutions HIA Tradepass Advertise jobs Member perks Toyota vehicles The Good Guys Commercial Ampol fuel savings See all Industry insurance HIA Insurance Services Construction works insurance Home warranty insurance Tradies & tool insurance Apprentices Why host a HIA apprentice? Hire an apprentice Support & guidance Contracts & compliance support Building & planning services
Resources & advice
Resources & advice $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Building it right Building codes Australian standards Getting it right on site See all Building materials & products Concrete, bricks & walls Getting products approved Use the right products for the job See all Managing your business Dealing with contracts Handling disputes Managing your employees See all Managing your safety Safety rules Working with silica See all Building your business Growing your business Maintaining your business See all Other subjects Getting approval to build Sustainable homes See all
Careers & learning
Careers & learning $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
A rewarding career Become an apprentice Apprenticeships on offer How do I apply? Frequently asked questions Study with us Find a course to suit you Qualification courses Learning on demand Professional development courses A job in the industry Get your builder's licence Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Further your career Find jobs
HIA community
HIA community $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Join HIA Sign me up How do I become a member? What's in it for me? Mates rates Our podcasts Made To Build Built Different HIA Building Australia Building the Hunter Our initiatives HIA Building Women GreenSmart Kitchen, bathroom & design hub Get involved Become an award judge Join a committee Partner with us Support for you Charitable Foundation Mental health program Get to know us Our members Our people
Awards & events
Awards & events $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Awards Awards program People & Business Awards GreenSmart Australian Housing Awards Awards winners Regional Award winners Australian Housing Award winners 2025 Australian Home of the Year Enter online Industry events Events in the next month Economic outlook National Conference Events calendar
HIA shop
HIA shop $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
Most popular products National Construction Code Vol 1 & 2 Waterproofing wet areas AS 3740:2021 HIA Guide to Waterproofing HIA Guide to NCC Livable Housing Provisions Top categories Building codes & standards Contracts & documents Guides & manuals Safety products Signage For your business Contracts Online Digital Australian Standards Digital Resource Library Forecasts & data
About Contact Newsroom
$vuetify.icons.faTimes
$vuetify.icons.faMapMarker Set my location Use the field below to update your location
Address
Change location
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change location

$vuetify.icons.faPhone1300 650 620

Queensland home wins HIA's highest national award

Media release

Queensland home wins HIA's highest national award

Media release
The 2025 HIA–CSR Australian Housing Awards were announced on 17 May in Melbourne, where Queensland’s Sarah Waller Building claimed the highest honour, the coveted 2025 HIA-CSR Australian Home of the Year, in front of an audience of industry leaders and home building consumers.

Set across subtle cascading levels on a sprawling acreage, the contemporary, pavilion-style home blends bold architectural design and functional living. 

Its striking aesthetic is defined by raw off-form concrete and black timber cladding, creating a dramatic yet refined façade. Inside, a sophisticated monochromatic palette enhances the transitions between each distinct zone. Designed for multi-generational living, the home incorporates a fully self-contained studio, multiple alfresco areas and expansive windows that frame breathtaking views of the natural surroundings. 

Judges praised the meticulous craftsmanship, from the precisely tapered roof plate to the innovative use of sustainably sourced timber cladding. Every element has been thoughtfully considered, resulting in a home that is both luxurious and liveable.

The home also won HIA Australian Custom Built Home, partnered by Stegbar. 

HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin congratulated the 2025 HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards winners and praised their remarkable achievements.

“Each year thousands of projects are entered into our Awards program. To be shortlisted as an Australian finalist is a huge achievement, but to be one of the 23 winners means you’re at the pinnacle of residential building.

"HIA Awards are our way of recognising the exceptional talent within our membership. We’re talking about members who not only build extraordinary homes, kitchens, and bathrooms but also run incredibly successful businesses. The winning projects redefine what's possible in terms of design and innovation, setting new standards for the industry."

Ms Martin also acknowledged the apprentices who are constantly striving to better themselves in their chosen fields. “The judges always have to make a tough decision from a strong field of finalists, and this year was no exception. 

"Congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding contributions to the industry," Ms Martin concluded.

The HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards celebrate excellence in residential building, recognising exceptional projects, businesses and individuals from across the country. Each year, these awards set the standard for innovation, craftsmanship and leadership within the industry.

Aria Property Group from Queensland won HIA Australian Apartment Complex, partnered by Daikin Australia, for an apartment complex with a visionary blend of architecture and nature. Standing 124 metres tall, it is the highest building outside Brisbane's CBD and is home to 188 luxury residences. Judges praised its meticulous craftsmanship, nature-inspired design, and exceptional liveability. This is the fourth time Aria Property Group have won this category. 

Apprentice Sam Spencer from Mamet Homes in Queensland, was named the HIA Jim Brookes Australian Apprentice of the Year whose commitment to learning, technical skill, and passion for the trade set him apart as a standout in the field. The category is partnered by Stratco.

Kieran Flanigan from CREW BUILT, South Australia was recognised as HIA Australian Emerging Builder, impressing judges with his remarkable professional growth and desire to excel in the construction industry. His thorough approach, industry knowledge, and broad experience are matched by a strong customer focus and genuine passion for his craft. This category is partnered by MyPlace.

First time entrant Birdblack Design won both HIA Australian Kitchen Design and, with Aspire Constructions, HIA Australian Bathroom of the Year. These categories are partnered by Smeg Australia and Caroma respectively. Both entries were from a home inspired by the ocean that features soft curves and meticulous detailing along with a cohesive use of materials and clever balance of luxury and simplicity.

View all award winners

 

For media

To download images of the winning projects visit: media.hia.com.au

Photos of award winners or interviews can be arranged on request.

For more information please contact:

Catherine Lynch

Chief Executive – Engagement & Communications
Latest articles
View all news $vuetify.icons.faArrowRight
29 May
HIA supports bipartisan approach to planning reform NSW

“The NSW planning system has failed to deliver the number of homes we desperately need and we fully support removing the politics from housing, to address this growing crisis,” said Brad Armitage, HIA Executive Director NSW.

27 May
Opposition pledge to remove stamp duty for first home buyers welcomed (Vic)

The Victorian Opposition’s announcement that it would remove stamp duty for first-home buyers spending up to $1 million on a new or existing home if elected at next year’s state election, is a positive step towards improving home affordability,” says Steven Wojtkiw, HIA Victoria Deputy Executive Director.

26 May
Sales in April rose after first cut in February

“New home sales rose by 16.5 per cent in the month of April 2025, to its highest level in 12 months,” stated HIA Economist, Maurice Tapang.

23 May
Home building to rebound with interest rate cuts but long-term challenges remain

The number of homes commencing construction in Australia is set to increase over the next few years, driven by strong population growth, low unemployment, and falling interest rates. However, long-term structural issues continue to pose risks to housing affordability and national supply targets, according to the latest outlook from the Housing Industry Association.