Brisbane Rental Market Update: Trends Landlords Need to Know in 2025

The Brisbane rental market in 2025 continues to evolve, with changes in vacancy rates, rental pricing, tenant demand, and new regulations shaping the landscape for property investors. While rental growth has moderated, demand remains strong, and legislative updates require landlords to be more strategic in managing their investments.

For Brisbane landlords, staying ahead of market trends and regulatory changes is essential to ensure competitive returns, compliance, and long-term investment success. Here’s what you need to know.

The Current Status of the Brisbane Rental Market
The Brisbane rental market remains landlord-friendly, with ongoing low vacancy rates and strong rental demand. However, signs of stabilisation are emerging as affordability pressures and increasing supply begin to influence market conditions.

1. Rental Growth Slowing but Still Positive
According to CoreLogic, national rental growth slowed to 4.8% in 2024, down from 8.1% in 2023. In Brisbane, rent prices have continued to rise at a more measured pace, with houses seeing 5.0% annual growth and units increasing by 4.2%.
While Brisbane remains one of the more affordable major cities for renters, rising cost-of-living pressures mean tenants are spending a larger share of their income on rent than ever before.

2. Vacancy Rates Remain Low
Brisbane’s vacancy rate increased slightly from 1.4% in late 2023 to 1.9% by the end of 2024, signalling a gradual easing in supply constraints. While this gives tenants slightly more options, competition for well-located, well-maintained properties remains high.
For landlords, this means:
• Vacancies may take slightly longer to fill than in previous years.
• Well-presented properties with competitive pricing still lease quickly.
• Poorly maintained properties may struggle to attract quality tenants.

3. Shift Towards Shared Living Arrangements
Many tenants choose shared living arrangements to offset costs as rental affordability tightens. This has led to:
• Higher demand for houses than units, as more tenants seek extra space.
• Longer lease terms as tenants prioritise stability in the current economic climate.
• More scrutiny on rent pricing, as affordability concerns drive tenants to seek the best value for money.

Regulatory Changes Affecting Brisbane Landlords in 2025
New Queensland rental laws introduced in 2024 are now in full effect, impacting how landlords manage lease agreements, rent increases, and compliance obligations. Key changes include:
• Rent increases limited to once every 12 months per property, regardless of tenant turnover.
• Mandatory minimum housing standards now apply to all rental properties.
• Rent bidding is banned, meaning landlords must accept the advertised rental price.
• More transparency required in lease agreements, including documented records of rent increases.

With stricter compliance requirements, landlords must be proactive in rental pricing strategies, lease management, and property maintenance to remain competitive and compliant.

What These Trends Mean for Brisbane Landlords

With moderating rent growth, evolving tenant preferences, and increased regulatory oversight, landlords should adopt a strategic approach to property management in 2025.
• Price rentals competitively to attract quality tenants in a stabilising market.
• Ensure properties meet compliance standards to avoid legal issues and tenant disputes.
• Focus on long-term tenant retention to minimise vacancy periods and maintain rental income.
• Leverage professional property management to navigate complex regulations and market shifts effectively.

 

Partner with Worth Real Estate for Expert Property Management

With Brisbane’s rental market evolving, landlords need expert guidance to maximise returns, stay compliant, and reduce risk. At Worth Real Estate, we specialise in:
• Accurate rental pricing strategies to ensure properties remain competitive.
• Proactive lease management to secure high-quality tenants.
• Comprehensive compliance support to keep properties aligned with new regulations.
• Minimised vacancy periods through strategic marketing and tenant retention plans.

Whether you own one property or a growing portfolio, our team can help you confidently navigate the 2025 Brisbane rental market.

Contact us today to discuss how we can help protect and grow your investment property portfolio.