April 2025 Newsletter
HEY NEIGHBOUR!
April has arrived, bringing a season of change — both in the property market and in our daily lives. With the federal election fast approaching, housing affordability is set to take centre stage, shaping discussions that will impact homeowners, investors, and renters alike. Interest rates have been put on hold for another month, rental shortages remain a pressing issue, and affordability challenges dominate the headlines. Over the coming weeks, we’ll see political parties unveil their housing policies, with promises of increasing supply, improving affordability, and addressing the growing need for social housing. The decisions made in the coming months could have long-term effects on the property market, so it’s certainly a space worth watching.
But it’s not all serious business — footy fever is well and truly back! Melbourne is buzzing with excitement as thousands of fans flock to the MCG and Marvel Stadium each weekend. This time of year brings a renewed energy to the city, boosting local businesses, pubs, and restaurants as supporters gather to cheer on their teams. The start of the AFL season is always thrilling, but unfortunately, it seems like Carlton might have missed the memo. Fingers crossed they wake up before the season slips away from us!
As we bid farewell to daylight savings on April 6th, we prepare for shorter evenings and crisper autumn air. The extra hour of sleep is a bonus, but the earlier sunsets take some getting used to. Remember when we actually had to adjust our clocks manually? A small reminder of how times have changed — though perhaps I’m just showing my age!
There’s plenty happening this month, and we’re here to keep you informed on all things property, market trends, and community updates.
Stay tuned, and as always, feel free to reach out — we love hearing from you!
Regards,
Carmela
MARKET INSIGHTS
We strive to stay up to date on the latest market trends. Here are a few articles we think are worth reading.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to keep the cash rate unchanged at 4.1% during its April meeting. This decision reflects the central bank's cautious approach amid ongoing global trade tensions and domestic economic conditions. RBA Governor Michele Bullock highlighted concerns over potential economic slowdowns resulting from international trade disputes, emphasizing that the board is prepared to adjust monetary policy if necessary to support Australia's economic stability.
A Melbourne homeowner faced a $500,000 loss due to an anonymous heritage nomination, which prevented planned redevelopment and resulted in financial penalties. This case has sparked debate about the transparency and fairness of the heritage listing process, with property owners calling for better communication and a reassessment of nomination rules.
Victoria is experiencing a severe deficit in affordable housing, with construction rates failing to meet the needs of low and middle-income earners. The state government has committed to building 800,000 new homes over the next decade, but experts question whether this goal is realistic given skilled labor shortages and other economic challenges.
Despite ambitious plans to expand Victoria’s housing supply, progress remains sluggish. Since 2017, only 1,600 new social housing units have been completed, while the waiting list for social housing now exceeds 51,000 households. The combination of rising rents and insufficient welfare support is exacerbating financial strain on vulnerable populations.
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD
What's new in your neighbourhood? These are a few recent updates that are happening in some of our local communities.
CAUGHT OUR ATTENTION
Here are a few things that members of our team have stumbled across over the month. Whether thought-provoking, interesting or entertaining, we want to share them with you.
Australia has long been one of the few regions free of Varroa mites, but recent detections highlight the risk of these devastating parasites establishing themselves. If not controlled, Varroa mites could cause significant colony losses, similar to those seen in other parts of the world. Monitoring and biosecurity efforts are now more critical than ever.
Beekeepers across Australia are facing increasing challenges as the country’s bee population declines. These vital pollinators play an essential role in agriculture, ecosystems, and honey production, yet habitat loss, pesticides, climate change, and emerging threats like Varroa mites are putting immense pressure on their survival. Without urgent action, beekeeping as an industry and hobby could face significant disruptions, affecting food security and biodiversity.
