Rental growth is slowing — but the pressure hasn’t disappeared

Australia’s rental market is showing signs of adjustment. For tenants and property owners, that makes local knowledge and thoughtful planning more important than ever.

The latest Cotality Quarterly Rental Review points to a change in pace across Australia’s rental market.

National rents increased by 0.5% in the September quarter, down from 1.6% in the June quarter. The national median rent reached $713 per week, while the national vacancy rate rose to 2.1% — its highest level since January 2025.
That’s a noticeable shift. But it doesn’t mean rental affordability has suddenly become easy, or that every local market is moving in the same direction.

Renters are reaching their limit

After years of rent increases and rising household costs, many renters have less room in their budgets to absorb further increases.

Cotality’s report highlights how households are adjusting: some are forming larger households, staying in the family home for longer or looking further afield for more affordable accommodation.

That matters for property owners too. Understanding what renters can afford — and what they value — can help owners make informed decisions about their property and future plans.

Brisbane and regional markets tell different stories

The September-quarter figures show why it’s important to look beyond the national headline.

Brisbane rents rose by 1.3% over the quarter and 6.4% over the year, with a median rent of $746 per week. The vacancy rate was 2.3%, up from 1.8% a year earlier.

Across combined regional markets, rents rose by 0.8% over the quarter and 5.6% over the year. The regional median rent was $628 per week, with a vacancy rate of 2.2%.

These figures offer useful context, but regional averages don’t tell us exactly what’s happening in every suburb. Rental conditions can vary significantly between locations and property types. Bribie Island needs to be considered on its own, using current local evidence.

What the shift may mean for property owners

A slower rate of rental growth is a reminder that rent decisions need to be grounded in the market, the property and the tenant’s circumstances.

For owners, it’s a good time to review:

- how the property compares with similar homes currently available
- the condition and presentation of the property
- upcoming maintenance and operating costs
- the likely impact of a rent change on tenant retention and vacancy risk

A strong rental result isn’t just about achieving the highest possible figure. It also involves protecting the long-term performance of the property through good communication, sensible maintenance and a realistic understanding of local demand.

The rental market is adjusting, not standing still

National vacancy rates remain below the long-term average, and the report expects conditions to remain tight for tenants over the coming year. At the same time, the pace of rent growth has eased as affordability pressures influence demand.

For tenants, owners and investors, the best decisions start with reliable local information — not a national headline on its own.

If you own an investment property on Bribie Island and would like a current view of its rental position, I’m happy to talk through the local market and what may suit your property.

Source: Cotality Quarterly Rental Review, Q3 2026. National and regional figures are broad indicators; individual property results vary.