As a buyers agent working in the Brisbane market since 2008, I’ve heard it all before:
"We’re just going to wait and see what happens after the election."

It’s a common line from both investors and owner-occupiers — and one that comes up like clockwork every federal cycle. But after working through multiple elections and market cycles over the last 15+ years, I can tell you confidently: waiting for an election to pass is often a convenient excuse — not a sound strategy.

And now, the latest research from Domain backs that up.

The Data Is In: Elections Don’t Stall the Market

Domain’s 2025 Mythbusting Federal Election Report shows that, despite all the headlines and political debate, federal elections don’t cause meaningful drops in property transactions.

Looking back at the past seven elections, sales volumes remained remarkably steady — in fact, there was even a small uptick in the month leading up to election day. Buyers and sellers continued to transact based on their own life plans and the broader economic landscape, not who was on the campaign trail.

Confidence, Not Politics, Moves Markets

That said, the report does highlight one real factor worth noting: political uncertainty. When people feel unsure about where the country is heading — whether due to elections, global events, or economic policy shifts — they tend to pause major financial decisions.

But that uncertainty can strike anytime, not just during elections. In February this year, Australia's Policy Uncertainty Index hit a two-year high. That kind of volatility can erode momentum — and that’s what actually impacts transaction numbers.

So the key here is confidence — long-term confidence in the property market, not the outcome of a single election.

Election Day Auctions: A Missed Opportunity?

Sellers often avoid scheduling auctions on election day, assuming buyers will be distracted. The data confirms this — auction volumes typically drop by half.

But here’s the kicker: clearance rates are actually higher on election day than the Saturdays before and after. With fewer properties on the market and serious buyers still out there, competition tightens and results often improve.

It’s a great example of how perception doesn’t always match reality in this space.

Government Doesn’t Make the Market — Strategy Does

One of the most persistent myths is that one political party delivers better property market outcomes than the other. The Domain report shows that:

House prices grew slightly faster under Liberal governments.
Unit prices performed better under Labor.
First-home buyer participation was higher during Labor terms.

In short — no party has a magic formula for the property market. What matters more is your strategy, your timing, and your goals.

So, What Should You Do?

Here’s my honest take:
If you’re planning to buy, invest, or sell property — do it based on your circumstances, your financial plan, and the fundamentals of the market. Don’t let a four-year political cycle derail your long-term wealth goals.

The reality is, whether Labor or Liberal holds power, Australia’s property market continues to move forward. It rewards those who make decisions with clarity and confidence — not those waiting for the dust to settle.

Need Help Making the Right Move?

At Hot Property Buyers Agency, we help our clients cut through the noise and make smart, strategic decisions — whether it’s election season or not.

If you’re unsure how the current market fits your plans, let’s have a conversation. The best time to act isn’t always when it feels safest — it’s when you're prepared.

thanks to the team at Domain for the graphics used in this article.