Investors and Government Housing Fuel Property Market in Broome, WA.

In Broome, WA, locals are being priced out of the property market due to a high influx of east coast investors and government-owned employee housing. Investors make up 50% of property buyers, often buying homes sight unseen. This has led to increased competition for local buyers, making it difficult for them to afford properties in their hometown. Median property prices have risen 13.7% in the past year, and the median rent is $1,050.

In Broome, Western Australia, the property market is experiencing significant pressure from a high influx of east coast investors and government-owned employee housing. According to local real estate agent Tony Hutchison, investors account for approximately 50% of property buyers in the remote tourist town [1]. This trend has led to increased competition for local buyers, making it difficult for them to afford properties in their hometown.

The Real Estate Institute of WA (REIWA) reports that median property prices in Broome have risen by 13.7% over the past 12 months [1]. As of May 2025, the median rent in Broome is $1,050 [1]. REIWA president Suzanne Brown described the situation as a "double-edged sword," noting that while investors add more competition, they also encourage supply, which helps keep rents reasonable [1].

Government Regional Officer Housing (GROH) properties make up a significant portion of the market in Broome, with 531 GROH properties as of May 31 [1]. The Kimberley Development Commission's latest housing report highlights that in areas where GROH is a substantial proportion of the overall housing mix, the risk of crowding out private rentals increases [1]. The Department of Communities stated that the GROH program ensures communities have access to key services by providing employee housing [1]. The 2025-26 state budget includes nearly $104 million in funding to deliver over 100 more GROH homes across the state, doubling the current number of GROH homes to be built in Western Australia [1].

Broome Shire President Chris Mitchell noted that locals and businesses are competing with the state government for rental properties, with the government owning around 80% of the private rental market [1]. Mr. Mitchell also expressed a preference for investors to rent out properties to local families rather than using them for Airbnb purposes [1].

In conclusion, the property market in Broome is experiencing significant challenges due to the high influx of investors and government-owned employee housing. While investors contribute to the supply of housing, they also create competition that local buyers find difficult to navigate. The median property prices and rents have increased, further exacerbating the issue for locals.

References:
[1] https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-06-23/east-coast-investors-government-buy-up-broome-real-estate/105437284