The potential for an increase in property values could see the median house price in the capital soar by $51,569, reaching a notable $1.1 million. Meanwhile, a forecast from the bank indicates a significant rise in Brisbane’s property market, with prices expected to climb 9.7 percent. This surge could elevate the median house price there by $54,919, bringing it to $1.26 million.

In contrast, Australia’s two largest cities, Melbourne and Sydney, are experiencing a downturn in property values. This decline is largely attributed to the relentless pressure from ongoing interest rate hikes and the increasing cost of living, which are impacting borrowers’ financial capacities. Predictions suggest Melbourne’s house prices will decrease by 1.7 percent, whereas Sydney’s market is anticipated to decline by 0.9 percent.

“We are witnessing a tale of two distinct property markets in Australia,” remarked Sally Tindall, the data insights director at Canstar.com.au. “It’s a tug-of-war scenario between how much banks are willing to lend and the urgent need for housing among the populace.”

Tindall further explained that rate hikes have pushed Sydney’s house prices to their current limits. With a median price standing at $1.6 million, the city’s high property values come as no surprise, at least for the time being.

”It’s a tale of two property markets across Australia in a tug-of-war between how much the bank will lend, versus how desperately people need houses,” Canstar.com.au data insights director Sally Tindall said.

“The rate hikes have pushed Sydney house prices to their limit, at least for now, which, at a median price of $1.6 million is far from surprising.”

Consumer confidence has taken a nosedive since the latest eruption of war in the Middle East almost two months ago, with Westpac predicting a further three rate hikes this year.

This would result in the borrowing capacity of a single person earning an average full-time wage falling by $58,700 this year.

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