Election Anxiety Is Real – But So Is Opportunity

With the Australian Federal Election now called, consumer confidence is once again taking a hit. Across industries, from retail to real estate, we’re seeing a predictable contraction. People pause. They hold back. They bunker down. And they wait.

Why? Because elections create uncertainty. And uncertainty breeds fear.

But here’s the thing: the fundamentals haven’t changed. In fact, for smart investors, the conditions have rarely been better. Right now, fear is creating opportunity.

Fear Fogs Decision Making

It’s human nature to pull back when things feel unclear. We see it every election cycle. It’s not just property, businesses delay decisions, consumers reduce spending, and the media fans the flames of doubt. But what most people don’t realise is that fear is rarely rational.

Elections make noise, and that noise distracts from the real story: the long-term trajectory of growth in regions like the Sunshine Coast remains incredibly strong.

Sunshine Coast: Unshaken and Growing

At $12.5Bn, the Sunshine Coast already has the highest infrastructure spend (underway or approved) per capita against Australia’s 20 largest cities. By far. With recent announcements relating to the Olympics and a few other projects in the wings, this number could reach $20 billion. The Sunshine Coast is not just growing, it’s transforming. This level of investment per capita is almost unheard of with the exception of the temporary booms in small mining towns relating to the construction of new mines. The difference is that while a mining town may have a high spike in investment and employment, once complete the new operational contribution to the local economy and long term jobs is substantially lower. Not so for the more than a decade of investment to date and the next decade to come, the contribution to the local economy and employment will only increase. The transformation that has been ramping for the last 10 years is still only in its infancy.

The recently announced heavy rail project is just one example. It’s not just about building tracks. It’s about unlocking a new level of connectivity between employment hubs, reshaping urban density, and creating medium-rise living environments around new transport corridors. More homes, better access, less congestion. That’s not just good planning, it’s investment gold.

Every new train station becomes a hub of growth. That means more people, more renters, more buyers, more energy in the market.

Why Smart Investors Are Acting Now

The rate call this week might have left interest rates on hold. But it’s important to understand that we are in an “easing” cycle. The Reserve Bank will inevitably make further cuts, timing is just a matter of political theatre at this point but we should expect at least 3 more cuts this year, starting from the next RBA meeting in a few weeks. By early 2026 the cash rate should be 1.75% or more below where 2025 started.

With the ‘election pause’ we’re also seeing early signs of seller flexibility and fewer competing buyers in the market, giving current investors greater negotiating power.

You’ll never get an opportunity like now. History proves this statement, all the data and modelling looking forward supports it too. When everyone else is freaking out, go shopping. Just be sure to purchase according to your strategy, not just what some real estate agent says is a good deal.

And if you’re still sitting on the fence, remember: rents are continuing to rise, supply remains limited, and the post-election period is likely to bring a resurgence of buyers who’ve been waiting in the wings. Plus, there is all the new investment coming in a region already leading the way.

Perception vs Reality

We all have a natural tendency to imagine the worst and when perception meets reality, perception always wins. But now’s the time to zoom out and assess the bigger picture. The Sunshine Coast isn’t just weathering the storm, it’s quietly positioning itself as one of the most exciting investment destinations in the country.

So don’t let the noise of an election stop you from making smart, strategic decisions. Talk with your property coach today and explore whether the current market offers an opportunity aligned with your goals.

Because when fear holds most people back, that’s exactly when you should be leaning in. Remember, all risk comes from a lack of knowledge because a lack of knowledge creates fear.

Speak to the experts to find your confidence to act while the opportunity exists.