The weekly round-up of the biggest news stories from across Momentum Media’s property brands from the week ending 2 January.
To compile this list, not only do we consider the week’s most-read stories and the news that matter most to you, but we also curate it to include stories from our sister brands that also have an impact on the Australian property landscape.
Here are the biggest property stories of the week:
Summer property report: How affordability pressures are heating up the market
Australia’s property market is sizzling, driven by strong first home buyer demand and record investor activity. We explore what this summer has in store for brokers and their clients.
When will the RBA meet in 2026?
The Reserve Bank of Australia has published its 2026 Monetary Policy Board meeting dates, with the first meeting of the year set for 2–3 February.
Rising lending complexity will define 2026, and brokers will stay at the centre
Despite banks pushing harder into proprietary lending, rising borrower complexity, regulatory change, and non-standard income profiles will ensure brokers remain at the heart of Australia’s mortgage market in 2026, says Brighten CEO Jason Azzopardi.
Year in review: Wrapping up the biggest stories of 2025
We look back on the year’s biggest stories in mortgage and finance broking.
2026 property outlook: Investor strategy is key as prices climb across capitals
In 2026, market shifts driven by the First Home Guarantee scheme, lower rates, and rising incomes will boost demand and dwelling values, making smart investment decisions and accurate property valuation more important than ever.
Brisbane offices set to experience ‘once-in-a-cycle’ surge
The Brisbane real estate market has remained strong throughout 2025, and investors could see comparable returns in 2026 by acquiring well-located CBD office properties.
Agents: Finish strong and start fast
As agents prepare for the Christmas break after a dynamic and challenging year for the industry and the market, Laing+Simmons head of people and growth, Jacqui Barnes, says building momentum in January means having a plan already in action now.
State battle: Who were the best performers in 2025?
In 2025, Western Australia led value growth nationwide, Victoria remained stable with modest gains, NSW continued to struggle with tight affordability, and South Australia faced high demand amid low stock levels.
[Related: Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from the week 8–12 December]
