Real Estate Trends for Indian Buyers – Navigating Property Investments and Homeownership in Australia

In recent years, Australia has witnessed a significant uptick in interest from Indian property buyers, driven by factors such as educational opportunities, economic stability, and a multicultural environment. As of 2025, this trend continues to evolve, influenced by policy changes, market dynamics, and cultural considerations.

Rising Interest and Market Dynamics

According to PropTrack‘s Overseas Search Report, searches for Australian homes to buy and rent from India increased by 23% in October 2024 compared to the same period the previous year. Areas like Tarneit and Point Cook in Victoria have become hotspots, with Indian buyers focusing on homes priced around $600,000 and rentals at about $500 a week.

Karen Dellow, a senior analyst at PropTrack, notes, “Australia is a popular option for those looking to make an international move. Our capital cities often rank highly on the annual lists of most liveable cities.”

Policy Changes Impacting Foreign Buyers

In a significant policy shift, the Australian government announced a two-year ban on foreign investors purchasing existing homes, effective from April 1, 2025. This move aims to address the country’s housing affordability crisis by freeing up approximately 1,800 properties annually for local buyers.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers stated, “We’re banning foreign purchases of established dwellings from April 1, 2025, until March 31, 2027.” Housing Minister Clare O’Neil added that the ban is part of a broader strategy to boost housing supply and help more Australians into homes.

However, foreign investors, including Indian buyers, are still permitted to purchase newly built homes, encouraging investment in new housing developments.

Cultural Considerations in Property Choices

Cultural preferences play a significant role in property selection among Indian buyers. The ancient Indian architectural philosophy of Vastu Shastra, which emphasises harmony with natural elements, has gained popularity in Australian real estate.

A Melbourne couple, Anuradhika and Salil Dogra, credited Vastu Shastra with revitalising their lives during the COVID-19 lockdowns. After consulting with Vastu expert Geettika Sharma, they made specific changes to their home’s layout, leading to improved well-being and the birth of their first child.
Sree Datti, an estate manager at Oliver Hume Corporation, observes, “At least 50% of my clients take Vastu into consideration when buying property—there is an increased amount of demand there for it.”

Case Study: Strategic Investment in Land Development

Indian-Australian entrepreneur Rupinder Brar exemplifies strategic investment in Australia’s real estate sector. Brar’s companies acquired large land blocks in Craigieburn and Shepparton, Victoria, with intentions to resell at a profit. One notable transaction involved purchasing a property for $13 million and selling a nearby property for $33 million, resulting in a $22 million profit.

Navigating the Australian Property Market

For Indian buyers considering property investment in Australia, understanding the evolving landscape is crucial. Key considerations include:

• Compliance with New Regulations: Staying informed about policy changes, such as the ban on purchasing existing homes, is essential.
• Investment in New Developments: Focusing on newly built properties aligns with current regulations and supports housing supply initiatives.
• Cultural Compatibility: Incorporating cultural preferences, like Vastu Shastra principles, can enhance personal satisfaction and property value.
• Engagement with Local Experts: Collaborating with real estate agents familiar with both Australian markets and Indian buyer preferences can facilitate smoother transactions.

As Australia’s property market continues to evolve, Indian buyers remain a significant and influential segment, contributing to the country’s diverse and dynamic real estate landscape