

Over the past decade or so, we’ve seen a new type of property market emerge in Australia: the prestige coastal property market.
We explore what defines it, what drives it and why it has a lot more in common with the property markets of Sydney and Melbourne, and even overseas cities, than it does with surrounding coastal areas.
What has traditionally driven coastal property markets?
There was a time when city property markets and coastal property markets were two very distinct entities.
While city markets tended to be relatively stable, holiday areas tended to rise or fall, going up very quickly when times were good and then crashing rapidly when times were bad.
For instance, during the global financial crisis fifteen years ago, apartment values in Noosa lost -10%, the Gold Coast apartments fell -9.4% and Byron Bay house prices dropped -16.2%, according to CoreLogic data.
That’s largely because areas like ours were the domain of second or holiday home owners. When they were squeezed financially, the logical thing to do was to offload the coastal home to pay off other debt, leading to a run of listings that added to supply.
How the pandemic helped change everything
In the past decade or so, however, we’ve seen dynamics in these markets shift. The number of second home buyers has decreased, and the number of prestige buyers and prestige homes has risen.
This trend accelerated during the pandemic, when an unprecedented number of buyers looked to trade in their city homes and move to upmarket coastal areas, as well as other lifestyle areas.
Many of these buyers were still working full-time and found, with the rise of remote working, they could still carry out their jobs easily from Noosa. Others discovered they now only needed to be in the office a couple of days a week at most, and commuting from Noosa to Brisbane or even Sydney and Melbourne was a relatively easy thing to do with our local airport.
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Director / Sales Agent
10 Noosa Parade, Noosa Heads
$22,500,000
3 Allambi Rise, Noosa Heads
$16,900,000
2/1-7 Bayview Road, Noosa Heads
$15,000,000
38 Seaview Terrace, Sunshine Beach
$13,100,000
9/81 Hastings Street, Noosa Heads
$12,510,000
38 Alderly Terrace, Noosa Heads
$11,500,000
11 Allambi Rise, Noosa Heads
$11,000,000
66 Tingira Crescent, Sunrise Beach
$9,800,000
2 Compass Place, Sunrise Beach
$6,100,000
9 Elanda Street, Sunshine Beach
$6,000,000
38 Arakoon Crescent, Sunshine Beach
$5,850,000
7 Stevens Street, Sunshine Beach
$5,620,000
1 Woodlark Rise, Sunrise Beach
$4,650,000
56 Orient Drive, Sunrise Beach
$4,625,000
80 Lorikeet Drive, Peregian Beach $4,425,000
22 Captains Court, Sunrise Beach
$4,375,000
40 Avocet Parade, Peregian Beach $4,375,000
25 Kestrel Crescent, Peregian Beach $4,150,000
67 Orient Drive, Sunrise Beach $3,700,000
62 Orient Drive, Sunrise Beach $3,500,000
69 Lorikeet Drive, Peregian Beach
$3,450,000
sep 24 - apr 25
Jolyon Robinson, a highly regarded Noosa architect, leads Sunshine Beach-based Robinson Architects. His designs, known for their sensitivity to the local landscape, have earned numerous awards.
His 2019 Tewantin home, inspired by Chinese architecture, made headlines when it hit the market. In 2018, his Avonlea project was shortlisted for two Houses Awards and received multiple commendations from the Australian Institute of Architects. The project was personal, as it replaced his childhood home, which had burned down.
His Ridgewood House won the 2022 Gabriel Poole Building of the Year. Beyond residential work, he has designed local landmarks like the Cooroy Library and Adventure Playground.
Jolyon, a second-generation architect, grew up visiting construction sites with his father, Ken Robinson. His passion developed as he observed architecture adapting to different climates. His firm handles residential, commercial, and international projects, including beachfront villas in Sierra Leone.
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Jolyon draws inspiration from nature, client lifestyles, and admired architecture. Designing for Noosa’s subtropical climate, he prioritizes large eaves, airflow, and durable materials, especially for beachfront homes. His philosophy for the ideal beach house is one that blends seamlessly with its environment.
Jolyon emphasizes the benefits of hiring an architect: minimizing construction risks, maximizing design potential, and achieving a beautiful result. He advises clients to research and trust their chosen architect throughout the process.
Every project presents unique challenges, from budget constraints to site conditions. However, exceeding client expectations is the ultimate reward. He admires Geoffrey Bawa’s minimalist architecture, favoring simplicity over unnecessary features.
Despite his global experience, Jolyon remains deeply connected to the Sunshine Coast, appreciating its balance of natural beauty and accessibility to city life.
Are there any noticeable trends or shifts happening right now in the current real estate market in Brisbane?
Brisbane’s property market is booming despite construction constraints, with buyers paying premiums for well-finished homes. Post-COVID, homeowners are investing heavily in high-end renovations, confident in strong returns—something uncommon pre-pandemic. A generational shift is also evident, as older homeowners downsize after decades, while younger buyers embrace apartment living for modern lifestyles. What areas in Brisbane are seeing the most growth and why do you think that is?
I am going to be biased and say Clayfield because this is the area my wife and I live in and predominantly where we sell, but also Albion, Herston, Alderley and any of the fringe suburbs around North Brisbane are seeing a lot of infrastructure development happening for the Olympics.
As an agent who specialises in selling property in New Farm, who are the typical buyers in this area right now?
New Farm attracts a range of buyers due to its high-density living and strong capital growth. First-home buyers purchase entry-level studios, while luxury buyers secure riverfront homes exceeding $20 million. Investors prioritise long-term appreciation despite
Ray White New Farm 0423 696 862
tom.lyne@raywhite.com
lower rental yields, and downsizers, young professionals, and families are drawn to the area’s lifestyle and amenities.
What effect have you seen on the Brisbane market since the announcement of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games?
I would say we have seen more confidence in the market overall, particularly from interstate or expat buyers. But given they haven’t announced where the key infrastructures are going to be built, it is hard to say that there has been a specific spurt in property value in any specific suburb. However, it is just a good market with a lot of confidence. I would describe it as a ‘safety blanket’ as buyers know what is coming.
What’s your outlook for Brisbane’s real estate market in the next 6-12 months? Do you expect any major changes?
I believe we will continue to see much of the same as last year. The thing that will continue to increase property value here in Brisbane is the lack of new housing coming to the market. The challenge for developers is that they are unable to make good margins on a development under $1,000,000 so they are not building them until the government and private sector find a way to build these apartments so that there is a margin in it for a developer then the pressure on property value will remain here in Brisbane.
Kane Livingstone is a financial adviser with Stonehouse Wealth Management, based in Peregian Beach. With offices in Sydney, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast, Stonehouse provides tailored financial solutions, specializing in investments, superannuation, insurance, and loans.
Kane, a longtime local and Certified Financial Planner, has been with Stonehouse since earning his Commerce degree in Financial Planning. He helps clients—ranging from families to business owners—achieve financial security, with a focus on retirement planning.
A common question Kane receives is, “How much do you need to retire?”— often less than expected. He also highlights the Downsizer Contribution, a government scheme allowing homeowners over 55 to contribute up to $300,000 ($600,000 for couples) tax-free into superannuation after selling their home. This strategy helps boost retirement savings while allowing flexibility in property choices.
Kane believes Noosa property is a solid investment, recommending buyers explore more affordable suburbs while still enjoying the region’s beauty. As Treasurer of the Peregian Beach Surf Life Saving Club, he’s committed to community safety and is working to revive its restaurant and bar.
Noosa has grown, attracting new businesses and energy while maintaining its unique character. Kane appreciates raising his family here, enjoying the beaches, and being part of a vibrant yet balanced community.
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Robbie Neller Director / Sales Agent
LOCAL FOOD SCENE
Nestled in the heart of Peregian Beach’s vibrant Village Square, Periwinkle Restaurant has established itself as a must-visit dining destination for both locals and visitors alike. With its elegant fusion of French and Mediterranean flavours, Periwinkle offers a dining experience that celebrates the best of fresh, local produce combined with classic European culinary techniques.
Periwinkle’s menu is a testament to refined simplicity and impeccable flavours. From freshly sourced seafood to expertly grilled meats, each dish reflects the restaurant’s commitment to high-quality ingredients and traditional French cooking methods. Diners can indulge in delicacies such as twice-baked spanner crab soufflé, seared barramundi with lemon butter sauce, and the ever-popular steak frites, all of which have earned rave reviews from patrons.
The relaxed yet sophisticated ambience of Periwinkle is one of its many draws. The alfresco dining space, complemented by stylish blue hues and a welcoming atmosphere, allows guests to enjoy their meals while basking in the coastal breeze. Whether for a leisurely lunch, a romantic dinner, or a celebratory gathering, Periwinkle’s setting enhances the overall dining experience.
A fine meal is best accompanied by an equally fine wine, and Periwinkle’s thoughtfully curated wine list delivers on this front. Featuring an exquisite selection of wines from France, Australia, and other renowned regions, the restaurant ensures that each pairing enhances the flavours of its dishes, creating a harmonious culinary journey for guests. Since its inception, Periwinkle has garnered a loyal following, with diners consistently praising its exceptional food, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere. Owners, Frank & Karin’s, dedication to quality and hospitality makes it a cherished part of Peregian Beach’s dining scene.
For those looking to experience the flavours of France by the beach, Periwinkle Restaurant is a must-visit.
Located at 2/216 David Low Way, Peregian Beach, QLD, the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily. Reservations can be made by calling (07) 5448 3251 or visiting their website: periwinklerestaurant.com.au
Noosa’s property market continues to be resilient in 2025 despite some local and global headwinds. The luxury segment of the market continues to outperform, with top transactions of up to $30m late last year, underscoring the area’s appeal among affluent buyers.
Sustained population growth, driven by interstate migration and buyers from Brisbane, continues to fuel demand, while limited housing supply is also keeping prices high. Auction clearance rates remain consistent at around 50 to 60 per cent.
Standout properties continue to attract interest – particularly those on the waterfront of Noosa Sound and Noosa Waters. There was anticipation the region’s home price record could be broken again when a five-bedroom mansion in Cooran Court hit the market with $35m price hopes, but those expectations were dashed when the property was recently advertised for $31m.
One transaction that made headlines was the purchase of a beach house in Allambi Rise by Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka, who paid $16.9m. It’s the third property to be sold in Allambi Rise within a few months, with another house, at number 17, going for $19m and number 11 on the same street, sold for $11m. Other notable recent sales include 10 Noosa Parade, which fetched $22.5m in January, and 40 Seaview Terrace in Sunshine Beach for $10.5m.
Neller Real Estate secured a number of significant sales, including a high-end home at 25 Kestrel Crescent, Peregian Beach, which changed hands for $4.15m. Robbie and the team have also just listed 25 Pelican Street, Peregian Beach, which is expected to set a new street record.
Noosa’s popularity is only set to increase now it is set to score a new six-star property, with plans afoot for the development of the second Calile Hotel, outside of Brisbane. The council has just approved plans for a property with 157 rooms, 29 suites and four three-bedroom villas to be developed in a 2.4ha setting, adding to existing properties such as the Sofitel and Sebel on Hastings Street.
Looking ahead, uncertainty always surrounds an election, so the market may soften until we receive clarity surrounding the result. March’s quarter of a per cent interest rate cut has helped to boost confidence, and any further cuts this year will alleviate financial pressure and likely increase market activity.
Written by Elizabeth Tilley News Corp Queensland Real Estate News Editor
Melisa Neller Business Manager melisa@nellerre.com.au
Paddy O’Rourke Sales Agent 0458 777 055 paddy@nellerre.com.au
Robbie Neller Director / Sales Agent 0473 577 828 robbie@nellerre.com.au Shop 11, 224 David Low Way, Peregian Beach, Queensland 4573
Joel Nicholls Sales Agent 0421 722 195 joel@nellerre.com.au
Siena Moffat Executive Assistant siena@nellerre.com.au
Nicola McNamara Client Services administration@nellerre.com.au
T 07 5471 4000 F 07 5471 4001 administration@nellerre.com.au nellerrealestate nellerre.com.au
Josh Moody Sales Agent 0460 635 322 josh@nellerre.com.au