Greg Hankinson , Director - Metropole Constructions
Let’s face it – construction never stands still. And while the latest numbers from Cotality show a slight uptick in costs across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, it’s far from cause for concern.
In fact, many of us in the industry see it as a chance to sharpen operations, refine build strategies, and lean into opportunity.
Cotality’s June quarter data revealed increases of just 0.5% nationally, with Victoria at 0.6%, Sydney holding steady, and Brisbane coming in at a comparatively gentle 0.4%.
These are marginal shifts – well below the historical average – and signal a more stable cost environment emerging.
For homebuilders, this plateau opens the door to renegotiating supplier deals and integrating more cost-efficient materials.
Heating and cooling products, for instance, actually declined in price this quarter – a useful indicator that not all components are moving in one direction.
For investors, it’s all about supply gaps and timing. As feasibility pressures continue to delay some large scale projects, demand for well-located, quality housing in the eastern capitals is only intensifying.
Rents are firm, buyer sentiment is strengthening, and the fundamentals – especially in middle-ring suburbs – remain sound.
The target of 1.2 million new homes by 2029 remains ambitious, but it confirms one thing: housing demand will stay strong.
Homebuilders who position now with clear intent and investors who back high-quality developments have every chance to ride the tailwinds ahead.
From Sydney’s evolving cityscape to Melbourne’s renewed growth corridors and Brisbane’s rising lifestyle appeal, there is no question that housing momentum is building.
