_Five Australian cities the most liveable in the world

Five of Australia’s major cities ranked in the top 18 of the most liveable cities in the world in 2019. Melbourne was highest in 2nd place, followed by Sydney (3rd, up two places), Adelaide (10th, stable), Perth (14th, down from 12th) and Brisbane (18th, up from 22nd place). The Economist Intelligence Unit based analysis on the stability, health care, environment, education & infrastructure across the 140 global cities. 

Positive sentiment in the housing market has continued since green shoots sprouted in late May 2019 when the Coalition retained power, shortly followed by two consecutive 25 bps cuts to the official cash rate in June and July—both times this was passed on by most mortgage lenders, now operating in a relaxed, but responsible lending environment. 

July also saw the first of lower taxes kick-in for low- and middle-income earners. Although it’s anticipated many households will save a portion of these savings instead of being reinjected into a sluggish economy, given another year of minimal wage growth.

Looking to clearance auction rates as a leading indicator, all capital cities have recorded an uptick in mid-August with the exception of Brisbane and Darwin. 

Overall, we forecast stronger Australian capital values will result in the September quarter. The strength will determine the velocity of new projects being launched to market over the coming year.

Read our latest Australian Residential Review here.