The ACT’s 2025–26 Budget didn’t deliver any surprises.
Property Council ACT & Capital Region Executive Director Ashlee Berry says the Budget provides the fiscal stability Canberra needs right now but the spotlight must now shift from planning to delivery.
“This is the Budget we had to have,” Ashlee said. “It’s cautious, steady, and avoids the worst-case scenarios but now the real work begins.”
The Budget confirmed rate increases for both residential and commercial landowners, a move Ashlee said was expected but still carries significant consequences.
“We knew this was coming, but that doesn’t make it any easier,” she said.
“Commercial property owners and tenants are already under pressure – and when you dig into the numbers, the increases could be quite material.”
“What matters now is how this revenue is used. The Government must be transparent about how it supports long-term economic strength.”
“We’ve been talking to the Government about the need for meaningful rates reform. It’s time for a long, hard look at how commercial rates are set – because the cumulative impact is growing and this will hit some lessees hard.”
Ashlee said she was pleased to see continued backing for major infrastructure commitments especially in areas that drive liveability and long-term growth.
“The theatre, the Convention Centre precinct, light rail – they all remain on the books. We need to make sure we get them right, but it’s good to see the investment flowing.”
Housing reform was another bright spot, with the Budget backing recent zoning changes to support greater housing diversity.
“The planning reform piece is there, and credit to the Government for moving on that. But planning is just the first step. We’ve got to shift gears into implementation,” she said.
“We’ve urged the Government to consider a Housing Taskforce, like the one in NSW. That model helped get over 30,000 homes moving in just six months. We need that same urgency in the ACT.”
Ashlee also called out the need for more attention on private market feasibility.
“We’re still missing action on the Lease Variation Charge and the investment levers needed to unlock private projects. Without that, affordability will keep slipping out of reach.”
Her final message?
“Canberra’s growing. Our economy is strong. We know what needs to be done, so let’s get moving.”