The prestige property market across regional Australia continues to defy broader economic headwinds, demonstrating remarkable resilience and attracting sustained demand despite an ongoing high-interest rate environment and increased return to office expectations.
While the post-pandemic property boom has softened, key lifestyle-driven destinations continue to attract buyers seeking luxury, space, and a connection to nature.
Regional Hotspots
Established regional lifestyle pockets such as Byron Bay (NSW), the Sunshine Coast Hinterland (QLD) and the Southern Highlands (NSW) continue to lead regional prestige property demand. Signature sales from these areas in the past 12 months reflect the market’s appetite for exclusive properties:
- 8 Border Street, Byron Bay NSW - $33,500,000 (Jan 2025)
- 461 Range Road, Mittagong (Southern Highlands NSW) - $19,200,000 (May 2024)
- 84 Fowlers Lane, Bangalow NSW (Byron Bay Hinterland) – $15,000,000 (Nov 2024)
- 81 Panorama Drive, Doonan (Sunshine Coast Hinterland QLD) - $11,200,000 (Nov 2024)
- 506 Greenhills Road, Werai (Southern Highlands NSW) - $10,170,000 (Mar 2025)
- 55 Ball Road, Eumundi (Sunshine Coast Hinterland QLD) - $5,700,000 (Oct 2024)
Victoria’s Prestige Market
In contrast to the regional prestige markets of the Southern Highlands (NSW), Byron Bay (NSW), and the Sunshine Coast Hinterland (QLD), which are leading the charge and attract significant demand, two historical prestige markets in regional Victoria are encountering softer conditions.
The Mornington Peninsula and The Macedon Ranges, which have long been two sought-after prestige regional localities in Victoria, are now experiencing;
- Extended selling periods
- Increased vendor discounting
- Reductions in property values
This is highlighted by a key sale at 335 Colwells Road, Hesket in the Macedon Ranges. This prestige rural lifestyle property is located on approximately 26 hectares, improved via a substantial architecturally designed dwelling and complimented via significant equine infrastructure, landscaped gardens, swimming pool, and tennis court. This property was transacted in December 2021 for $8,800,000 before being re-offered to the market and selling in June 2024 for $6,675,000, a discount of 24% on the prior selling price.
This aligns with broader regional Victorian property market trends, where property values have dipped 2.2% year-on-year, compared to a 5.5% national increase in regional dwelling values (Corelogic, Feb 2025).
Sustainable Prestige on the Rise
A powerful trend is emerging within the prestige market – eco-luxury. Buyers increasingly prioritise sustainability, energy efficiency, and passive design in their property search. Environmentally conscious architecture not only aligns with buyer values but also commands price premiums.
As demand shifts toward dwellings that reduce carbon footprints and future-proof against rising energy costs, the prestige property sector is expected to see continued growth in eco-luxury demand throughout 2025 and beyond.