Tim and Justine Burke
27 Zox Circuit, Calwell, ACT 2905
Auction
4 3 3
Open Tuesday 25 August 4:30 pm Auction Saturday 5 September 10:00 am🏛️ About This Suburb (Last Updated Date: 2026-03-13)
History, Aboriginal heritage, and the story behind the name.
Calwell — Ngunnawal Country
Calwell was developed in the late 1970s and 1980s as part of the southern expansion of the Tuggeranong district. It was designed to provide affordable family housing with integrated green belts and community facilities.
Today, it is a mature, leafy suburb characterized by large blocks, elevated homes with Brindabella views, and a strong sense of community stability.
Overall Score
7.2
A solid performer for families prioritizing space and lifestyle over inner-city proximity.
Name Origin
Named after Arthur Calwell, a prominent Australian Labor Party politician and former Minister for Immigration.
Established
Gazetted 1975
Topography
Hilly terrain providing many homes with panoramic mountain views.
Green Space
Bordered by the Tuggeranong Hill Nature Reserve.
Education Hub
Home to both public and private primary and secondary options.
📊 Scorecard
12 key dimensions scored 0–10. Each score includes a one-line explanation.
Market Momentum
6
Steady demand with moderate price growth following the broader ACT market stabilization.
Amenity
7
Well-served by the Calwell Shopping Centre and local sporting clubs.
Schools
7
Strong local options including Calwell High and St Francis of Assisi.
Transport
5
Relies heavily on bus services and private vehicles; significant distance from the CBD.
Risk Profile
6
Generally safe, though bushfire and older building materials require due diligence.
Liveability
8
High quality of life for families with ample parks and quiet streets.
Demographics
7
Stable population of established families and increasing numbers of first-home buyers.
Rental Demand
7
Consistent demand from families and public service employees seeking value.
Growth Potential
6
Limited by distance but supported by the scarcity of large blocks in newer developments.
Affordability
8
One of the more accessible entry points for detached housing in the ACT.
Crime & Safety
8
Lower than average crime rates compared to the ACT metropolitan average.
Walkability
4
Hilly terrain and suburban layout make a car essential for most errands.
⚡ Quick Snapshot
Key metrics at a glance, plus your top advantages and watch-outs.
Median House
$865,000
Estimated March 2026
12mo Growth
3.2%
Steady market recovery
Family Ratio
74%
Highly family-oriented
Vacancy Rate
1.6%
Healthy rental market
Elevation
High
Excellent valley views
CBD Commute
25-35m
Via Monaro Highway
✅ Key Advantages
- Large, established blocks often exceeding 700sqm.
- Exceptional views of the Brindabella Ranges from elevated pockets.
- Strong local infrastructure including a supermarket, medical centre, and tavern.
- Direct access to nature trails and the Tuggeranong Hill Nature Reserve.
- More affordable price point compared to Woden or North Canberra.
⚠️ Key Watch-Outs
- Significant commute times to the Canberra CBD during peak hours.
- Older housing stock may contain asbestos (common in 1980s ACT builds).
- Limited nightlife and high-end dining options within the suburb.
- Hilly streets can be challenging for those with mobility issues or without a car.
- Properties on the suburb edge face higher bushfire management requirements.
🏘️ Suburb Overview
Character, property mix, price range and what drives value here.
🏙️ Character
Established Family
How this suburb feels day-to-day.
🏠 Property Types
Predominantly detached houses, with some townhouses near the shops.
Dominant dwelling stock.
💰 Price Range
$750,000 – $1,250,000
Typical entry to ceiling.
💡 Why It Matters
Calwell represents the 'traditional' Canberra dream of a large backyard and mountain views. It serves as a critical entry point for families who have been priced out of the inner south but still want ACT government services and schools.
💰 Price Guide & Market Trends
Medians, rental market, 5-year history and property split.
🏠 House Median
$865,000
$780k – $1.15m
🏢 Unit Median
$595,000
$520k – $680k
📈 Price Trend
+3.2% past 12 months
12-month movement
🔑 Weekly Rents
Houses $680pw, Units $540pw
Current asking rents
📉 5-Year Price History
🏘️ Property Type Split
Prices corrected after the 2022 peak but have shown resilience due to the lack of new land releases in the southern corridor.
🎯 Affordability
How this suburb compares to metro and state medians.
🏙️ vs Metro Average
14% below ACT median house price
Price comparison
📋 Income Ratio
7.8x average household income
Median price ÷ median income
💳 Gross Yield
4.1% gross yield
Estimated rental yield
More AffordableModeratePremium
Entry levelMid rangePremium
Calwell remains one of the most accessible suburbs for detached housing in the ACT, making it a primary target for first-home buyers and young families.
🔥 Rental Demand
Vacancy rates, demand pressure, tenant profile, and investor outlook.
📊 Vacancy Rate
1.6%
Lower = tighter market
⏱️ Days to Lease
21 days
Avg time on market
📈 Rent Growth p.a.
+4.5%
Annual rental increase
Demand Level
Moderate-High
👤 Tenant Profile
Families and defense personnel seeking proximity to Tuggeranong and Monaro Highway access.
💼 Investor Outlook
Solid yields for the ACT. Capital growth is likely to be steady rather than explosive, but low vacancy rates provide security for long-term holders.
🚀 Growth Potential
Historical capital growth, infrastructure pipeline, and 5-year outlook.
+3.2%
1-Year Growth
+2.4% cumulative
3-Year Growth
+10.9% cumulative
5-Year Growth
📍 Growth Drivers
- Limited new land supply in the Tuggeranong district.
- Ongoing upgrades to the Monaro Highway improving commute times.
- Gentrification as younger families renovate 1980s original homes.
- Relative value compared to the rapidly appreciating Woden Valley.
⛔ Headwinds
- High interest rate sensitivity among the local middle-income demographic.
- Distance from the planned Light Rail Stage 2 extensions.
- Competition from newer developments in the Molonglo Valley.
🔮 5-Year Outlook
Expect steady growth in line with CPI and wage growth. The suburb's appeal will likely increase as 'fixer-upper' opportunities are exhausted and the area fully matures.
🛡️ Crime & Safety
Safety index, trend comparison, and what to check locally.
8
Safety Score
Above Average
📉 Trend
Stable
vs last 12 months
🏙️ vs Metro Average
12% below ACT average crime rate
Relative comparison
Risk Categories
Property Crime: Low
Personal Safety: Low
Traffic/Hooning: Medium
📋 What to Check Locally
Standard residential security is sufficient; check specific street lighting and proximity to the shopping precinct for late-night foot traffic.
⚠️ Risk Profile
Natural hazards and planning risks to verify before buying.
📋 Summary
The primary risks are environmental and structural rather than social. Bushfire and asbestos are the two critical due-diligence items.
🌊 Flood Risk
Low risk; the hilly terrain ensures excellent drainage, though local stormwater easements should be checked.
🔥 Bushfire Risk
High risk for properties bordering the southern and western nature reserves; BAL ratings may apply for renovations.
🏦 Insurance Impact
Generally standard, though premiums may be slightly higher for homes directly adjacent to unmanaged grasslands.
🗺️ Planning & Zoning
Development controls, overlays, and what's changing locally.
📐 Typical Zoning
RZ1 - Suburban (Low Density)
🔲 Overlays
Bushfire Prone Area, Precinct Code for Calwell Shops.
🏗️ Development Hotspots
Limited; mostly small-scale dual occupancy potential under new ACT planning rules.
The RZ1 zoning protects the low-density character but limits significant redevelopment, preserving the family-friendly feel.
🌳 Liveability
Day-to-day experience — transport, amenity, green space, schools and healthcare.
🚌 Transport
Bus routes 74, 75, and 76 connect to Tuggeranong Interchange; car-dependent for most.
🛍️ Amenity & Retail
Calwell Shopping Centre provides Woolworths, a pharmacy, and several eateries.
🌲 Parks & Recreation
Excellent access to Tuggeranong Hill and local playgrounds like Calwell Neighbourhood Oval.
🏫 Schools
Strong public and Catholic options within walking distance for many residents.
🏥 Healthcare
Calwell Medical Centre and proximity to Tuggeranong health services.
👥 Demographics
Who lives here — income, age, ownership, and education levels.
A stable, middle-income suburb with a high proportion of multi-person households and owner-occupiers.
💵 Median Income
$115,000 per household
🏠 Ownership
78% owner-occupied or mortgaged
🎂 Age Profile
Median age 37
🎓 Education
High percentage of trade and vocational qualifications, with increasing professional services representation.
📊 Age Distribution
The high owner-occupancy rate contributes to well-maintained properties and a stable community environment.
🏗️ Major Developments
Infrastructure pipeline and what it means for values and liveability.
📋 Overview
Few major projects within the suburb boundaries, focusing instead on regional infrastructure.
📈 Positive Impacts
- Monaro Highway flyover upgrades improving traffic flow to the city.
- Upgrades to the Calwell Shopping Centre precinct.
- Refurbishment of local park facilities and playgrounds.
📉 Negative Impacts
- Construction noise and delays on major arterial roads.
- Increased density through dual-occupancy changes in RZ1 zones.
🗺️ Nearby Suburb Comparison
How neighbouring suburbs stack up on price, lifestyle and who they suit.
📍Theodore
Position
South
Price
Slightly cheaper
Lifestyle
More secluded, closer to the hills, fewer amenities.
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers seeking quiet.
📍Isabella Plains
Position
North
Price
Similar
Lifestyle
Flatter terrain, older houses, closer to Tuggeranong CBD.
Best for
Those prioritizing a flat block over views.
📍Conder
Position
West
Price
Slightly more expensive
Lifestyle
Larger shopping hub (Lanyon Marketplace), newer sections.
Best for
Families wanting more modern retail options.
🔍 Similar Suburbs
Suburbs with a comparable profile — useful if this one is over budget or sold up.
Banks
ACT
6.8/10
Southern fringe location with mountain views and family focus.
Gordon
ACT
7.1/10
Large family homes and similar 1980s/90s build era.
Chapman
ACT
8.2/10
Hilly terrain and views, though at a significantly higher price point.
Wanniassa
ACT
7.5/10
Established Tuggeranong suburb with strong school catchments.
💬 Community Sentiment
Aggregated themes from resident discussions, forums and local feedback.
📊 Overall Community Sentiment
Residents value the peace, safety, and views, often describing it as a 'hidden gem' that is worth the commute.
★★★★★
Family Life
We bought here for the backyard and the views of the Brindabellas, and we've never regretted it. The schools are great for our kids.
Views
Schools
★★★★☆
Affordability
It was the only place we could afford a decent house on a big block. The commute to Civic is long, but the Monaro Highway makes it doable.
Affordability
Commute
💡 Tailored Advice
Personalised guidance for every role in this market.
🧑💼 Buyer Strategy
- Prioritize homes on the high side of the street for maximum capital growth and views.
- Factor in a renovation budget for 1980s kitchens and bathrooms.
- Check for asbestos in any property built before 1990.
- Look for properties with established gardens to mitigate summer heat.
- Verify the BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) if buying on the suburb fringe.
❓ Questions to Ask the Agent
- Has the property been tested for loose-fill asbestos (Mr Fluffy)?
- What is the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating for this specific lot?
- Are there any easements on the block that would prevent a pool or extension?
- When was the heating and cooling system last replaced?
- What are the average utility costs for this home in winter?
- Is the property currently compliant with ACT rental insulation standards?
- Have there been any recent insurance claims related to storm or fire damage?
🏷️ Seller Strategy
- Highlight the 'work from home' potential of larger floor plans.
- Professional photography of the mountain views is essential for marketing.
- Ensure heating systems are serviced and efficient before winter inspections.
- Declutter large backyards to emphasize the space for families.
- Address any minor structural cracks (common in Canberra clay) before listing.
📣 Positioning Tips
Position the property as a 'lifestyle upgrade' for young families moving out of apartments or smaller townhouses. Emphasize the block size and the quiet, safe cul-de-sac locations.
💼 Investment Case
Stable long-term rental with low vacancy and decent yields.
⚠️ Investment Risks
Lower capital growth compared to inner-city areas; maintenance costs on older homes.
📈 Action Plan
- Target 3-4 bedroom houses with double garages.
- Ensure the property has modern heating/cooling to attract quality tenants.
- Focus on properties within walking distance of the Calwell Shopping Centre.
- Consider minor cosmetic updates to maximize rental appraisal.
🔑 Renter Tips
- Check the efficiency of the heating system—Canberra winters are harsh.
- Ask about internet connectivity in elevated pockets.
- Look for properties with included garden maintenance if the block is large.
🏘️ What Renters Love Here
Quiet streets and plenty of space for pets or children.
⚠️ Renter Watch-Outs
Limited public transport frequency outside of peak hours.
🏢 Landlord Strategy
- Regularly clear gutters and manage vegetation for bushfire safety.
- Install energy-efficient appliances to meet ACT rental standards.
📋 Compliance & Management
Must comply with ACT minimum energy efficiency standards for ceiling insulation.
🤝 Agent Insights
- Buyers are increasingly looking for 'renovated' rather than 'original' to avoid high building costs.
- The 'view premium' in Calwell can add $50k-$100k to a sale price.
🎯 Marketing Angles
The 'Brindabella Backdrop' and 'Big Block Freedom'.
👤 Target Buyer Profile
Young families, public servants, and local downsizers staying in the area.
✅ Due Diligence Checklist
Tap items to tick them off. Don't skip these before signing anything.
✓
Obtain a Building, Pest, and Compliance Report (mandatory in ACT).
✓
Check the ACT Heritage Register for any local listings.
✓
Verify the property's zoning and any future changes in the Territory Plan.
✓
Inspect the condition of retaining walls on hilly blocks.
✓
Assess the orientation of the home for solar passive heating.
✓
Check for signs of movement or cracking in the brickwork.
✓
Confirm the proximity to the nearest bus stop and frequency of service.
✓
Evaluate the quality of local school catchments.
✓
Review the bushfire management plan for the area.
✓
Check for any unapproved structures (pergolas, sheds) in the compliance report.
✓
Assess the age and condition of the roof tiles.
✓
Verify the presence of a working smoke alarm system.
📚 Government Sources & Disclaimer
Official council and government links only. Always verify independently before any property decision.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This report is based on data available as of 2026-03-13. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Buyers should conduct their own independent investigations and consult with professionals before making any property purchase.
