Rob Panetta from Lux Buyers Agents discussed the current state of Melbourne’s property market, noting increased buyer activity and competition due to multiple bidders at auctions. Both first-time buyers and investors are showing significant interest in the market.

Affordability is a key driver for investor behavior. Melbourne’s property values attract interest from interstate investors who recognise the city as undervalued, especially compared to areas in Sydney and Western Australia. Panetta highlighted that 2026 is expected to be pivotal for Melbourne’s property sector.

Active Suburbs

Areas like Faulkner, Hadfield, Glenroy, and parts of Keylor East and Avondale Heights are seeing notable activity due to first home buyer incentives. The Frankston area and regional hubs like Ballarat, Bendigo, and Geelong also showcase strong buyer demand.

Home purchases are favoured over apartments, which Panetta advises against unless for lifestyle choices. Many older apartments have decreased in value, whereas land acquisition within budget is recommended for clients.

Australia’s financial landscape is evolving as individuals pursue disciplined wealth-building habits. Bryce Jenkins from The Virtuous Collective emphasises that it is not investments that lead to wealth but rather the consistency of disciplined saving and investing.

Recent market trends indicate that exceptional returns seen in property, cryptocurrencies, shares, and bonds may not persist. Jenkins argues that committing additional capital to a portfolio has a more significant impact on wealth than simply chasing high returns.

He cites scenarios from his book, “11 Unpopular Reasons Why I’m Rich and You Are Not,” illustrating how even small capital injections can significantly benefit investors over time.

As unhappiness and distrust rise in Australian workplaces, this year’s employee communication impact report calls for authentic communication from executives.

David Burnand from Staffbase provides insights into the challenges facing employers. Employers often express a desire for authenticity but fear potential backlash.

This concern is exacerbated by the current emphasis on productivity, which can overshadow the need for genuine communication. Many HR managers advise caution, suggesting that leaders should remain reserved, which impacts workplace dynamics.

In Australia, nearly half of the workforce experiences some level of loneliness, often due to disconnection from their organisations.

This sense of isolation correlates with a 23% increase in job-seeking behaviour and significantly lowers productivity.