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RETAIL LEADS THE REVIVAL AS RATE CUTS REIGNITE AUSTRALIA’S COMMERCIAL PROPERTY MARKET

Australia’s commercial property market is finding fresh momentum as interest rate cuts begin to reshape buyer confidence and investment appetite. With borrowing costs easing, capital is flowing back into the sector, and retail has emerged as the clear standout (Real Commercial, 2025). Despite transaction volumes being lower than last year, the overall value of retail sales climbed to $14.6 billion, representing almost a quarter of all commercial activity (Real Commercial, 2025). This reflects a shift towards larger, higher-quality deals driven by both institutional and private investors. Neighbourhood centres, strip retail and sub-regional shopping hubs are proving particularly attractive, supported by limited new supply, robust population growth and consistent consumer demand.

Industrial property remains the largest sector by value, with $19 billion transacted over the year (Real Commercial, 2025). Logistics, warehousing, and data centres continue to benefit from strong fundamentals such as low vacancy rates and the rise of e-commerce, though traditional warehouse assets are starting to show signs of slowing. Offices have held steady, with prime assets still drawing interest, while alternative sectors like childcare and medical have softened as investors scrutinise operator quality, lease security and long-term demographic trends more closely. Essential service assets such as fast-food outlets, convenience stores and service stations remain highly prized for their dependable income streams (Real Commercial, 2025).

Across the states, New South Wales led the market with more than $25 billion in activity, underpinned by larger transactions despite fewer overall deals. Queensland recorded growth of more than 5 per cent, while South Australia stood out with nearly 17 per cent growth, signalling shifting investor appetite into secondary markets (Real Commercial, 2025). With further cuts to interest rates expected, confidence is likely to strengthen over the coming year. Investors are increasingly focusing on assets that balance stability with growth, and retail is now firmly positioned as the sector leading Australia’s commercial property revival (Real Commercial, 2025).

Reference:
Real Commercial (2025). Interest rate cuts drive commercial property market with retail a standout winner. Retrieved from https://www.realcommercial.com.au/news/interest-rate-cuts-drive-commercial-property-market-with-retail-a-standout-winner

*WRITTEN BY Jayden Ayoub | COMMERCIAL SALES & LEASING