A Post-Election Surge: Commercial Real Estate in the ACT is Gaining Serious Momentum
By Chris Antos, Sentia Real Estate
It’s an exciting time for commercial real estate in Canberra. Since the recent election, we’ve noticed a tangible upswing in both enquiry levels and deal conversions across the board. Sentia has been on the frontline of this renewed energy — and as Director, I can confidently say we’re entering a new phase of confidence and momentum in the ACT market.
In the weeks and months following the election, the sentiment shifted. Stability breeds certainty, and certainty drives action. Business owners who had been waiting on the sidelines are now stepping forward with clarity and commitment. We’re seeing it firsthand in our agency — more calls, more inspections, and more deals being inked.
Retail continues to perform strongly. Demand has remained consistent, and now with renewed market optimism, we’re seeing leasing campaigns progress faster and tenants making decisions more decisively. The appetite for high-exposure retail spaces — particularly in mixed-use precincts and lifestyle hubs — is stronger than ever.
At Sentia, we’ve had great success securing quality tenants for a range of retail offerings, from boutique fashion and beauty brands to national food and beverage operators. What's even more encouraging is the wave of interest from emerging businesses looking to establish themselves in key Canberra locations.
The future is looking bright, with a number of new retail centres currently listed with Sentia and even more set to hit the market in the coming months. From revitalised suburban precincts to brand new mixed-use developments, there’s a healthy pipeline of quality projects coming through — and we’re proud to be the agency of choice for so many of them.
These new centres are being curated with a focus on community, experience, and sustainability — which aligns perfectly with the direction both consumers and businesses are heading. The ACT is evolving rapidly, and these new developments will play a big role in shaping the commercial landscape over the next decade.
In short, the commercial real estate market in Canberra is gaining traction again — and it’s great to see that confidence returning across all sectors. Whether it's owner-occupiers looking to upgrade, tenants expanding into their second or third location, or developers preparing for their next project, the activity is there — and growing.
At Sentia, we’re ready. We’ve built a strong, agile team that’s deeply embedded in the local market, and we’re excited to help our clients seize the opportunities that are emerging.
If you’ve been considering a move — whether leasing, buying, or launching a new project — now is the time to talk. The market is moving. Let’s move with it.
— Chris Antos
Director, Sentia Real Estate