Greg Hankinson , Director - Metropole Constructions
If you’re a homebuilder or property investor eyeing your next move, the latest ABS Lending Indicators data offers compelling reasons to focus on Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
According to HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon, “the value of lending for renovations is almost three times higher than it was pre-pandemic.”
Rising home prices and low unemployment are driving families to expand rather than relocate, especially in land-constrained urban areas. For builders, this means demand for quality renovation work is surging, particularly in suburbs where space is tight and lifestyle upgrades are top of mind.
Meanwhile, investors are stepping up. In the September quarter, they accounted for 43% of new home builds nationally, according to the HIA. That’s a significant uptick, and it’s especially relevant in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, where population growth and housing demand remain strong. With overseas arrivals climbing from already record highs, the pressure on housing supply is only going to intensify.
What’s the opportunity? For homebuilders and investors, it’s about being proactive. Secure shovel-ready land. Streamline approvals. Focus on high-demand corridors where infrastructure and lifestyle appeal intersect. And advocate for policies that reduce tax and regulatory burdens, because as the data shows, taxing investors doesn’t boost supply.
In short, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane are not just Australia’s largest cities, they’re the epicentres of a housing evolution. Whether you’re building new homes or upgrading existing ones, now’s the time to lean in.
The market is moving, and those who move with it will be best positioned to thrive.
