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Canberra’s property market is starting to show signs of change. With proposed rezoning, planning reforms, and a renewed focus on affordability, especially for essential workers, we’re seeing the early signs of a more balanced and accessible housing landscape.
At Hayman Partners, we see potential in these shifts — for buyers, sellers and the wider community. Here’s what’s happening and where the opportunities lie.
The ACT Government’s draft Major Plan Amendment DPA09 proposes rezoning parts of Downer and Watson along the Light Rail Stage 2 corridor. If approved, this could allow up to 1,000 new homes with a focus on walkable, transit-linked living.
Changes include new RZ4 zoning — allowing 3-storey development (and up to 5 in selected areas). It’s a compromise that aims to increase density while retaining character.
What’s important is the integration of housing with infrastructure. Tying new supply to transit corridors improves accessibility, shortens commutes and distributes demand more evenly across the city.
Beyond Downer and Watson, Canberra’s broader planning direction is evolving. Medium-density, mixed-use developments near transport corridors are gaining traction in current drafts.
What stands out is a growing emphasis on where housing is built — not just how much. Locating growth near services and transport is a practical shift that reflects long-term planning maturity.
A recent Property Council study highlights the affordability challenges many essential workers face. In response, there’s now visible momentum toward more inclusive housing strategies.
From shared equity models to affordable housing targets in new developments, both government and developers are engaging with solutions more openly. It’s early, but it sets a hopeful tone.
Buyers
Suburbs along the proposed Northern Gateway corridor could see value uplift. Look for connectivity, zoning changes and proximity to public transport.
Townhouses and terrace homes may offer more than lifestyle — they could also hold better long-term value.
Always do your due diligence — zoning maps, infrastructure plans, and planning updates are key.
Sellers
If your home is near a rezoned or transit-linked area, your value proposition may have improved.
Think strategically about timing, presentation and buyer priorities — especially transport, walkability and amenity.
Investors
Transit-oriented precincts and proximity to light rail can offer stable demand.
If affordable or essential worker housing is implemented well, it could mean lower vacancy risk and strong tenancy.
Final approval of DPA09 and broader community support — delays could stall progress.
Getting the balance right: density without sufficient amenity risks backlash.
Infrastructure delivery — new housing is only as good as the services around it.
Cost pressures (labour, materials, compliance) remain a risk to project viability.
The Bottom Line: Realistic Optimism
Canberra is aligning policy, transport and housing in a way that signals steady progress. It’s not without challenges, but the ingredients for meaningful change are in place.
At Hayman Partners, we focus on the trendlines that build community, not just capital. Whether you’re buying, selling or investing, the best opportunities will be where planning, policy and infrastructure align.
Need a tailored strategy or suburb-level insights? Talk to our team — we’ll help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Have a question we haven't quite answered? Use this form and we'll touch base within 24 hours.