Australia’s housing market has entered 2026 with a clear split in performance across cities. While Sydney and Melbourne have begun to stabilise, mid-sized capitals continue to record solid growth, with several markets achieving more than 1% month-on-month increases.

Perth

Perth is leading the nation, with home values rising 2.3% in February alone, adding significant value to the median dwelling in just one month. Brisbane, Adelaide and Hobart also posted strong gains, reinforcing the growing strength of these markets as demand shifts beyond the traditional major cities.

Sydney and Melbourne

In contrast, Sydney and Melbourne were more sensitive to February’s rate hike and softer buyer sentiment. Property values in both cities remained flat over the month and showed slight declines over the rolling quarter, reflecting a more cautious market environment.

A key factor supporting growth in the smaller capitals is limited housing supply. Perth listings remain significantly below historical averages, while Brisbane and Adelaide are also experiencing notable undersupply. Although stock levels in Sydney and Melbourne are still relatively tight, both cities have seen an increase in new listings, which may signal rising vendor activity amid softer conditions.

At the same time, the more affordable end of the market continues to show resilience nationwide. In Sydney, lower-priced homes recorded modest growth, while higher-end properties declined. Ongoing demand from first-home buyers and investors, combined with tighter borrowing capacity at higher price points, continues to support entry-level segments.

Overall, Australia’s property market is becoming more selective in 2026. For investors and homeowners, markets like Perth are presenting compelling opportunities, driven by strong growth, affordability, and supply constraints.

As Australia’s property market shifts, opportunities are becoming more location-driven than ever. Whether you are exploring high-growth markets like Perth or reassessing your strategy in major cities, now is the time to make informed decisions. Connect with our team at sales@iqiwa.com.au to discover where the real opportunities are and take your next step with confidence.