The Property Council of Australia stands as the leading advocate and largest employer for the nation’s most significant industry. In the ACT, the property sector is the cornerstone of economic strength, directly contributing over $4.5 billion and supporting an additional $2.1 billion indirectly. With one in seven jobs tied to property, this sector is the driving force behind Canberra’s ongoing success.
In 2021–22, the property sector generated nearly $800 million of the ACT Government’s $1.8 billion in tax revenue—amounting to almost 45%. As we look towards the future, the prosperity of ‘Tomorrow’s Canberra’ will be built on the continued success of property, development, and the built environment.
Canberra is set to experience a population surge of nearly 60%, growing from 453,000 to 784,000 by 2060. The upcoming October 2024 election is a pivotal moment to establish the policy and financial groundwork needed for this growth.
But this goes beyond numbers—it’s about seizing the moment to create a Canberra that future generations will be proud to call home. We have the chance to craft a thriving environment for our children, and theirs, and to build a lasting legacy.
The Property Council of Australia, with the strength of our 2,500 members nationwide, is at the forefront of this effort. Our members have outlined a strategic plan focused on housing, balanced taxation, vibrancy, sustainability, and infrastructure.
Our Key Actions for a Stronger ACT:
Housing Solutions: Placing the property sector at the heart of housing affordability and accessibility.
Sustainability: Implementing smart policies for a sustainable, energy-efficient, all-electric city.
Infrastructure: Delivering essential transport and event infrastructure to support city growth.
Revitalising Civic: Bringing vibrancy back to Canberra’s heart and restoring its capital status.
Tax Reform: Advocating for a fairer, more balanced tax regime.
Resources
Events
Media Releases
New City Stadium Proposal a Game Changer for Canberra’s CBD
The Property Council of Australia today welcomed the Canberra Liberals’ proposal to develop a new 30,000-seat stadium at the Acton Waterfront, saying the initiative aligned with its Election Platform calls for action to revitalise the city centre and boost the local economy.
Free Public Transport a Win for CBD and Business Hubs
The Property Council of Australia today welcomed the announcement that an incoming ACT Labor Government would trial free public transport on a Friday to get more people back to the city.
Developers Call Time on Tax Cash Cow
The Property Council of Australia is calling for the next ACT Government to lift the heavy tax burden on the development industry, the single largest contributor to the public purse in 2021-22.
60,000 Reasons to Commit to ACT Rezoning Reforms
The Property Council of Australia is urging all parties ahead of the October ACT election to commit to zoning reforms that could deliver nearly 60,000 new homes in Canberra.
Property Council ACT Secures Leaders’ Debate Ahead of Crucial Election
The Property Council of Australia will host a debate between ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr and Opposition Leader Elizabeth Lee on 16 October 2024, three days before the Territory election.
Property Council: Five Point Plan for Tomorrow’s Canberra
The ACT property sector has called on all major parties to endorse a five-point plan to meet the needs of “Tomorrow’s Canberra’, ahead of the October election.