As 2026 approaches, Canberra is positioning itself for a significant period of residential growth and transformation. Driven by strong government intervention, planning reform, and ongoing population growth, the ACT housing market is creating clear opportunities for those looking to build diverse, future-ready homes.
A major influence on Canberra’s outlook is the ACT Government’s ambitious housing strategy. With a target to enable 30,000 new homes by 2030, reforms are already underway to fast-track development approvals, particularly for public and community housing. Over the next five years, land is being released for more than 21,000 new homes, with approximately 70 per cent planned within Canberra’s existing urban footprint. This infill-focused approach is reshaping established suburbs while making better use of existing infrastructure.
Planning reform is also driving a clear shift toward higher-density living and what is often referred to as the “missing middle”. Townhouses, duplexes, and low-rise multi-unit developments are being actively encouraged to bridge the gap between detached homes and large apartment blocks. Inner North Canberra, Gungahlin, and Belconnen are currently leading this trend, with a strong pipeline of apartment and multi-unit construction already underway.
The market response has been equally telling. Population growth and a tight rental market continue to underpin strong housing demand. Buyers and renters alike are seeking well-located, efficient homes that offer affordability without compromising lifestyle. This has increased interest in Canberra’s outer suburbs, where land availability and value remain attractive.
There is also a growing preference for turnkey, move-in-ready homes. Many buyers are choosing completed builds to avoid construction delays and cost uncertainty, making well-designed, finished homes increasingly desirable. At the same time, modular and prefabricated housing solutions are gaining traction as potential ways to deliver homes faster and more cost-effectively.
Together, these factors point to a clear direction for Canberra in 2026. Diverse housing types, smarter land use, and flexible building solutions will define the next phase of growth. For homeowners and investors willing to plan early, Canberra offers a stable, policy-supported environment to build homes that align with both market demand and long-term urban strategy.
