Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Supplemental Disclosure of Non-cash Activity (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash activity:
Decrease in obligations related to land not owned under option agreements	$ (1,617)	$ (1,883)
Decrease in debt related to conversion of Mandatory Convertible Subordinated Notes and Tangible Equity Units for common stock	(2,376)	(9,402)
Land acquisitions for debt	20,207	0
Supplemental disclosure of cash activity:
Interest payments	100,040	92,742
Income tax payments	174	133
Tax refunds received	$ 0	$ 3,925