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One of this week’s biggest property headlines is the sharp national rise in residential building approvals, especially for higher-density developments. However, Canberra bucks the trend. According to the ABS, only 197 new dwellings were approved in the latest monthly data, a significant drop compared to previous periods.
This highlights a long-standing challenge in the ACT: supply inconsistency. While national momentum picks up, Canberra’s delivery pipeline remains uneven, impacting listing volumes and buyer confidence over time.
Stock remains constrained across most capital cities as 2026 begins. Canberra and Hobart are among the cities seeing upward pressure on asking prices due to limited supply and consistent buyer demand.
In Canberra, monthly gains have been modest but steady. Many suburbs remain well below their long-term average for listings, which supports value stability but keeps transaction volumes subdued. Buyers are active, but selective.
CoreLogic data shows that Canberra’s median dwelling value rose close to 5% over the past year, with houses outperforming units. This points to a stable, measured market — one shaped more by fundamentals than short-term sentiment.
Affordability remains a factor in buyer decision-making, but lifestyle drivers continue to fuel well-qualified demand. Importantly, low stock hasn’t stopped buyers from transacting where value and quality align.
Rental yields have tightened nationally, with Canberra’s rental growth more moderate than some other capitals. Despite this, investor demand remains healthy — particularly in areas with low vacancy and consistent tenant demand.
For investors, understanding local rental trends is critical as price growth becomes more measured and supply cycles remain unpredictable.
With ACT approvals fluctuating and listings tight, focus on timing and local conditions rather than broad forecasts. Target suburbs with consistent turnover or low competition.
Low stock means less competition, but buyers are still price-sensitive. Align expectations with recent data to ensure shorter time on market and better buyer engagement.
Canberra’s rental market and steady housing values support a long-term strategy. Focus on suburbs with low vacancy rates and strong local amenity.
At Hayman Partners, we focus on what drives real outcomes in the property market — not the noise. For sellers, buyers or investors, understanding supply and demand shifts is key to success in 2026.
Need suburb-specific insights? Get in touch with the Hayman Partners team for a tailored strategy.
Have a question we haven't quite answered? Use this form and we'll touch base within 24 hours.