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$vuetify.icons.faPhone1300 650 620

Sales of new homes jump in January

Media release

Sales of new homes jump in January

Media release
“Sales of new homes increased by 19.3 per cent in the month of January 2026, marking a strong start to the year and reinforcing the steady growth in sales observed over the previous twelve months,” stated HIA Senior Economist Maurice Tapang.

 The HIA New Home Sales report is a monthly survey of the largest volume home builders in the five largest states and is a leading indicator of future detached home construction.

“The strength of the January result confirms that the recovery in detached housing demand is broad based and ongoing,” added Mr Tapang.

“Sales in the three months to January were flat compared to the previous quarter but remained 26.2 per cent higher than in the same quarter a year earlier. 

“This result reflects the impact of the interest rate cuts delivered through 2025, rising established dwelling prices, low levels of unemployment and continued population growth. 

“Importantly, these sales were recorded prior to the February 2026 rate increase and therefore do not reflect any direct impact from that decision.

“The February rate increase introduces a degree of uncertainty for the months ahead. However, borrowing capacity remains stronger than it was a year ago and the current level of sales indicates that commencements of new homes should also continue to grow. 

“Population growth and low levels of unemployment continue to create demand for housing forcing established prices higher and creating demand for new homes. These factors have created broad based demand for new housing.

“Over the last twelve months, sales across all five states have increased. The data suggests some degree of capacity easing in Western Australia, while sales in Queensland and South Australia continue to grow.

“New South Wales and Victoria, which have lagged in this cycle, are finally showing an increase in their volume of new home sales and supporting the growth nationally,” concluded Mr Tapang. 

Victoria recorded the strongest monthly increase, up by 33.2 per cent in January 2026. This was followed by South Australia with a 22.9 per cent increase, ahead of Queensland (+18.2 per cent), Western Australia (+6.9 per cent) and New South Wales (+2.6 per cent).

Download our latest HIA New Home Sales Report

Private New House Sales - Australia (seasonally adjusted)

Source: HIA Economics

For more information please contact:

Tim Reardon

HIA Chief Economist

Maurice Tapang

Senior Economist
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