Brisbane Zoning Changes: What Landlords Need to Know Right Now

Brisbane City Council is currently reviewing its low-to-medium residential (LMR) zoning rules — and while these changes are still in the early stages, they could significantly reshape parts of the city over the next few years.

Designed to address housing affordability and population growth, the proposed updates aim to make it easier to build townhouses, duplexes, and small-scale developments in well-connected suburbs — without relying on high-rise towers.

For landlords, these changes could mean more than just policy shifts — they may present real, tangible opportunities to unlock value in existing investment properties.

What’s Being Proposed?

The review affects 18 suburbs across Brisbane, including Bald Hills, Bracken Ridge, Bulimba, Clayfield, Everton Park, Fitzgibbon, Forest Lake, Gordon Park, Indooroopilly, Kalinga, Morningside, Mount Gravatt, Nundah, Oxley, Seven Hills, Taringa, Toowong, and Wynnum.

Council is considering changes that would:

• Increase maximum building heights
• Reduce minimum lot sizes and frontage requirements
• Encourage medium-density development near public transport and shopping precincts
• Simplify development pathways for small-lot or multi-dwelling builds
   

This is part of Brisbane’s plan to encourage more “missing middle” housing — such as townhouses and low-rise apartments — particularly in established areas where land is already in demand.

Why This Matters for Landlords

Even if you’re not a developer, zoning changes like this can open up options and increase the value of your investment over time.

Here’s what it could mean for you:

1. Future development options

You might gain approval to:

• Build a second dwelling or granny flat
• Convert a house into a duplex
• Redevelop a large block into multiple dwellings
   

Even modest developments like these could significantly boost rental income or resale value.

2. Higher resale value

Land with development potential is often more attractive to investors and builders. If the zoning makes your block more versatile, that can directly increase its market appeal — even if you never develop it yourself.

3. Better borrowing position

More valuable land can strengthen your equity position, making it easier to refinance or expand your portfolio.

4. Portfolio flexibility

Whether you want to renovate, rebuild, or sell, zoning flexibility gives you options. And in property, options often equal opportunity.

How to Prepare Now

These zoning changes are still under review, but getting ahead now can give you a strategic edge.

Here’s what you can do:

• Check your current zoning status through Council’s interactive mapping tool
• Stay informed by registering for updates from Brisbane City Council
• Speak to a town planner or development consultant if you’re unsure what the proposed changes mean for your block
• Talk to your property manager or adviser about how this might fit into your longer-term goals

If your property is located in or near one of the review suburbs, now’s the time to assess its potential — not just as a rental, but as a future asset with development upside.

Looking to Expand Your Portfolio? Aurora Property Is Here to Help

Whether you're planning to hold, develop, or diversify your property investments, having the right team on your side makes all the difference.

At Aurora Property, we go beyond day-to-day property management. We work closely with landlords to:

• Identify opportunities based on zoning changes and market trends
• Maximise rental returns through proactive tenant management and property improvements
• Connect you with local experts — from valuers to planners — to support your next move
• Help you buy, sell, or reposition properties as your portfolio evolves
   

With deep local knowledge and a hands-on approach, we’re committed to helping you make smart, strategic decisions that support long-term growth.

Thinking about your next investment move? Let’s talk about how we can help you get there.