Australia's property market, an ever-evolving landscape, has seen some significant changes over the past year. With urban regions always in demand and the push for regional migration, Australia's property market dynamics have shifted. This article provides a concise overview of the primary growth areas in the nation's property trade in the past twelve months, with particular emphasis on rental percentages.

1. Regional Centres

Growth: Amid the global push for remote working arrangements and a desire for a better quality of life, many Australians sought properties in regional areas. This has led to an upsurge in property prices in areas that were previously under the radar.

Rental Percentages: As demand increased, rental yields in these regional hubs experienced a surge. The appeal of these areas, with their relative affordability compared to major cities, made them attractive for property investments. Thus, landlords enjoyed a higher rental return, and the percentage of leased properties rose notably.

2. Suburban Expansion in Major Cities

Growth: The outer suburbs of major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane witnessed a spike in demand. With infrastructural development and improved connectivity, these areas became increasingly desirable for families and young professionals.

Rental Percentages: Rental growth in these zones was more moderated compared to regional centres but still demonstrated a steady rise. There was a notable shift towards renting in newly established communities due to their blend of urban amenities and open spaces.

3. Inner-City Apartments

Growth: The early months of the pandemic saw a decline in the demand for inner-city apartments, primarily due to lack of international students and transient populations. However, as borders started reopening and city life regained its vibrancy, there was a rebound in demand for these properties.

Rental Percentages: Rental vacancies in central city zones saw a momentary spike, leading to a decrease in rental yields. But as demand recovered, rental percentages have been gradually climbing back, particularly in cities with a significant student population or where international travel has substantially resumed.

4. Holiday Hotspots

Growth: With international travel restrictions in place for a considerable period, domestic tourism flourished. Areas traditionally recognized as vacation destinations saw an influx of interest from buyers looking for holiday homes or investment properties.

Rental Percentages: These areas registered a rise in short-term rentals, with many property owners leveraging platforms like Airbnb. There was a significant jump in rental percentages during holiday seasons, especially in beachfront properties and mountain retreats.

5. Industrial and Commercial Spaces

Growth: As e-commerce soared and businesses adapted to new models of working, there was increased demand for warehouses, logistics hubs, and flexible co-working spaces.

Rental Percentages: Rentals in industrial zones saw stable growth. However, commercial spaces in central business districts faced challenges, with rental percentages dropping temporarily before stabilising.

Australia's property market has showcased resilience and adaptability in the past year. The push towards regional living, the resurgence of city life, and the rise of domestic tourism has all played pivotal roles in shaping the current landscape. As the country continues to navigate global changes, these growth areas provide insights into evolving consumer preferences and the future trajectory of the Australian property market.