Australia’s Multi-Unit Apartment and Townhouse Construction industry has undergone significant shifts in recent years, influenced by factors ranging from government policies and economic trends to global disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. In this article, we will explore the key dynamics shaping the industry, its current challenges, and the promising opportunities on the horizon.
Shifts in Housing Demand
Over the past few years, the industry witnessed a transformation in housing demand from high-rise apartments to single-family homes, driven by federal HomeBuilder regulations and evolving construction practices. However, this shift has come with its set of challenges, including declining revenues and the closure of major construction companies like Probuild and Grocon.
Revenue Trends and Challenges
The industry experienced an annual revenue decline of 6.8% over the last five years, reaching $43.6 billion in 2022-23. Factors such as completion of high-rise buildings, excess inventory, and tightening investment rules contributed to the decline. The pandemic-induced disruptions in global supply chains further heightened challenges, leading to the closure of well-known contractors.
Source: IBISWorld Industry Report.
The Impact of Border Closures and Immigration
Australia’s strict border closures during the pandemic not only halted net migration but also affected housing starts. The decline in immigration resulted in lower home sales to international buyers and a slowdown in the construction market. However, as borders gradually reopen, net migration is expected to increase, providing a potential boost to the industry.
Rising Mortgage Rates and Housing Affordability
The end of the HomeBuilder program and increasing mortgage rates pose challenges to the industry. Private household spending is expected to decrease by 2.3% in 2022-23, impacting demand for housing. Despite the challenges, opportunities arise from lower house prices, making it easier for households to borrow money to buy homes.
Source: IBISWorld Industry Report.
The Role of Rental Investment Models
The adoption of rental investment models contributes to industry growth. Expenditure on housing, including new construction, renovations, and extensions, remains a significant driver. The industry is evolving as real estate developers invest in new homes and townhomes, catering to changing preferences and economic conditions.
Economic Recovery and Future Prospects
As the economy gradually recovers from the pandemic, the multifamily housing and townhouse construction industry is expected to rebound. Net migration returning to pre-pandemic levels will drive demand for new housing, contributing to an anticipated revenue growth of 5.6% to $57.2 billion by the end of 2027-28.
Australia’s Multi-Unit Apartment and Townhouse Construction industry face challenges arising from economic fluctuations, changing housing preferences, and global disruptions. However, with strategic adaptation, focus on rental investment models, and the emergence of innovative construction approaches like BTR, the industry is poised for growth and recovery. As the nation reopens its borders and the economy stabilise, the construction sector can look forward to new opportunities and a resurgence in housing demand.
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