Investing With Confidence: A Guide For Brisbane Property Investors

When it comes to property investment, Brisbane remains one of the most attractive markets in Australia.

The median house price in Brisbane recently hit a record high of $1.2 million according to PropTrack data, and a recent KPMG report found prices are expected to rise almost 11% this year and 8.9% in 2027.

This follows a trajectory that has seen the Queensland capital outpace other Australian capitals, but that doesn’t mean that the opportunities are all gone.

In Brisbane, property prices are still more accessible than Sydney, while rental yields are typically stronger than both Melbourne and Sydney.

Population growth and interstate migration are continuing to drive strong housing demand, and major infrastructure investment linked to the 2032 Olympic Games is accelerating development.

Sharon Richter, Director of Brisbane-based agency Hudson Property, meets many buyers that are still keen to take advantage of the city’s appeal.

“Brisbane’s combination of affordability, strong rental yields, and long-term growth potential are attracting both local and interstate property investors,” she says.

“There’s also the lifestyle appeal that comes with a subtropical climate, outdoor living, easy access to parks, rivers and beaches.”

For investors seeking to balance Brisbane’s strong growth story with greater certainty, Defence Housing Australia (DHA) offers a distinctive investment pathway.

By leasing properties directly to a government entity, investors can access long‑term income security while reducing many of the risks associated with private leasing.

How does it work?

DHA provides housing and related services to members of the Australian Defence Force and their families, and Brisbane is one of their priority locations.

So, how does one invest with DHA?

If you already own a property, you could apply to lease it to DHA, provided it meets requirements on location, quality and proximity to serviced Defence bases.

For those looking to build, DHA’s Build to Lease program allows investors to purchase off-the-plan properties that DHA has committed to lease upon completion.

DHA can also work with investors looking to purchase existing or new properties to ensure DHA criteria is met, often with the option to pre-commit to a lease before the purchase or construction is complete.

In some instances, properties may even be sold with a DHA lease already attached, meaning investors can experience a seamless transition into the program.

DHA is on the hunt for both new and established properties, particularly townhouses and apartments in the sunshine state capital.

Property owners and buyers can invest with DHA through a range of pathways.

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Reliable, predictable income stream and cash flow

DHA is a secure, long-term investment with lease terms typically 3, 6, 9 or 12 years.

During this time, investors receive guaranteed* rental income for the entire lease term, even if the property is vacant. This means investors receive consistent rental income regardless of tenant turnover.

With recent changes in Queensland tenancy laws making it easier and less costly for tenants to exit fixed‑term leases early, vacancy risk has increased for many private landlords.

DHA helps mitigate this risk by continuing to pay rent for the full lease term, provided lease conditions are met.

DHA also takes care of occupancy, inspections, vacancy management and some of the unplanned expenses – such as non-structural repairs.

This unique approach can be particularly appealing for investors who value predictable returns without the day-to-day demands of property management.

“Investing with Defence Housing Australia provides a dependable avenue for entering the property market,” says Shane West, DHA Executive General Manager, Property.

“As a government entity, DHA offers a level of trust and certainty not always found in the private market. At the same time, investors play a meaningful role in supporting the Defence community by helping provide safe, high-quality housing for Defence members and their families — enabling them to focus on keeping Australia safe.”

Investing with DHA can be particularly appealing for investors seeking long-term stability over short-term speculation.

This includes professionals with limited time to manage properties, those planning for retirement, or investors looking to balance growth assets with a more defensive, income focused investment.

Investing with DHA can reduce some of the risk normally associated with leasing and property investment.

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Why now is the time to invest with DHA in Brisbane

Brisbane’s ongoing population growth, combined with its proximity to major Defence bases and continued infrastructure investment, is underpinning long-term demand for quality rental housing.

Within Brisbane and surrounding areas — particularly locations within 30 kilometres of serviced Defence bases such as Gallipoli Barracks at Enoggera and RAAF Base Amberley — Defence Housing Australia (DHA) has an ongoing need for well located, high quality residential properties to house Defence members and their families.

This sustained demand reinforces Brisbane’s importance as a strategic location for DHA, while giving investors’ confidence in continued leasing demand.

DHA has an ongoing need for eligible properties in the Brisbane area.

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DHA is actively seeking a broad range of housing types, including apartments and townhouses, to suit the diverse family compositions of Defence members — aligning closely with the types of properties already performing strongly across the Brisbane market.

“Properties with consistent tenant demand and reliable rental income are highly sought after,” says Ms Richter.

“Brisbane’s population growth, tight rental market and diverse employment base support stable returns, and well-located properties in established suburbs provide additional investor confidence.”

Brisbane’s house prices have increased 14.6 per cent in the past year, while unit prices have risen 20.3 per cent year on year, according to PropTrack data. Ms Richter notes that townhouses have proven to be a strong investment option.

“Townhouses are typically located in established suburbs close to transport, schools and employment hubs, supporting consistent demand,” she says.

“These features contribute to strong long-term investment performance, including steady rental income and potential capital growth.”

For investors seeking a balance of stability, purpose and exposure to one of Australia’s strongest property markets, investing with DHA in Brisbane presents a compelling opportunity.

Disclaimers:

*Rent may be subject to abatement under certain circumstances such as loss of enjoyment or amenity, or breach of lease terms. Rent is paid where the property is habitable. Should a property become uninhabitable during the term of the lease, or lessor breaches the lease terms, the rent may cease or abate and the lease may be terminated by DHA. Guaranteed rent is subject to the terms of the lease. DHA does not take into account an investor’s objectives or financial needs. Investors should always seek appropriate independent advice before making any investment decisions with DHA.