Adrian Giampietro
9 Namoi Place, Kaleen, ACT 2617
Auction
2 1 2
Open Saturday 6 June 10:45 am Auction Saturday 27 June 11:00 am🏛️ About This Suburb (Last Updated Date: 2026-03-13)
History, Aboriginal heritage, and the story behind the name.
Kaleen — Ngunnawal Country
Developed in the mid-1970s as a key residential hub for the expanding Belconnen district. The suburb was designed with a focus on pedestrian safety, featuring an extensive network of underpasses and green belts.
Today, Kaleen is a highly sought-after 'middle-ring' suburb known for its leafy streets, large 1970s brick homes, and a strong sense of community among long-term residents and young families.
Overall Score
8.2
A top-tier family suburb offering a balance of space, education, and location.
Aboriginal Name
Ngunnawal— "Water"
Name Origin
Derived from the Ngunnawal word for water, consistent with the naming theme of the Belconnen district.
Established
Gazetted 1974
Dual Schools
One of the few suburbs with two public primary schools.
Green Space
Over 15% of the suburb is dedicated to parkland and ovals.
Connectivity
Direct cycle path access to the Belconnen Town Centre and Civic.
📊 Scorecard
12 key dimensions scored 0–10. Each score includes a one-line explanation.
Market Momentum
6.5
Steady demand with low stock levels keeping prices resilient despite broader market fluctuations.
Amenity
7.5
Excellent local shops and proximity to major Belconnen and Gungahlin hubs.
Schools
9.2
Highly regarded public schools (Kaleen and Maribyrnong) drive significant buyer interest.
Transport
7.0
Strong road links via Gungahlin Drive, though reliant on bus networks for public transit.
Risk Profile
8.5
Low environmental risk, with primary concerns limited to property-specific structural issues.
Liveability
8.8
High quality of life with abundant parks, sports facilities, and quiet streets.
Demographics
8.2
Stable population of high-income public servants and established families.
Rental Demand
7.8
Consistently high due to proximity to the University of Canberra and North Canberra Hospital.
Growth Potential
7.2
Solid long-term prospects as RZ2 zoning allows for sensitive densification near shops.
Affordability
4.5
Entry prices are high compared to national averages, reflecting its premium Belconnen status.
Crime & Safety
8.4
Statistically safer than the ACT average with a strong community watch presence.
Walkability
6.2
Good internal pedestrian paths, though most errands require a vehicle.
⚡ Quick Snapshot
Key metrics at a glance, plus your top advantages and watch-outs.
Median House
$1,165,000
Estimated March 2026
12mo Growth
3.8%
Steady annual appreciation
Block Size
820sqm
Average for standard houses
Family Ratio
72%
High concentration of households
Hospital Access
4 mins
To North Canberra Hospital
Uni Proximity
2.5km
To University of Canberra
✅ Key Advantages
- Large block sizes providing significant outdoor space and renovation potential.
- Exceptional educational facilities including two primary schools and proximity to UC.
- Central location with rapid access to the CBD, Belconnen, and Gungahlin.
- High proportion of owner-occupiers ensuring well-maintained streetscapes.
- Strong rental yields supported by the nearby hospital and university precincts.
⚠️ Key Watch-Outs
- Many original homes require significant thermal efficiency upgrades (insulation/glazing).
- Presence of RZ2 zoning can lead to increased density and traffic in specific pockets.
- High entry price point for first-home buyers compared to neighboring Giralang.
- Limited night-life and dining options within the suburb itself.
- Potential for legacy asbestos (loose-fill) in older 1970s builds.
🏘️ 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 single-storey houses with increasing dual-occupancy developments.
Dominant dwelling stock.
💰 Price Range
$950k – $1.85m
Typical entry to ceiling.
💡 Why It Matters
Kaleen serves as the 'sweet spot' for Canberra families who want the space of the outer suburbs without the commute. Its resilience during market downturns makes it a safe-haven for capital preservation.
💰 Price Guide & Market Trends
Medians, rental market, 5-year history and property split.
🏠 House Median
$1,165,000
$1.05m – $1.75m
🏢 Unit Median
$645,000
$580k – $780k
📈 Price Trend
+3.8% past 12 months
12-month movement
🔑 Weekly Rents
Houses $720pw, Units $540pw
Current asking rents
📉 5-Year Price History
🏘️ Property Type Split
The price gap between Kaleen and inner-north suburbs like Lyneham has narrowed, as buyers prioritize block size and school catchments over CBD proximity.
🎯 Affordability
How this suburb compares to metro and state medians.
🏙️ vs Metro Average
12% above ACT median house price
Price comparison
📋 Income Ratio
8.4x average household income
Median price ÷ median income
💳 Gross Yield
3.6% gross yield for houses
Estimated rental yield
More AffordableModeratePremium
Entry levelMid rangePremium
Kaleen is no longer an entry-level suburb. It is a 'second or third home' destination for established professionals.
🔥 Rental Demand
Vacancy rates, demand pressure, tenant profile, and investor outlook.
📊 Vacancy Rate
1.4%
Lower = tighter market
⏱️ Days to Lease
19 days
Avg time on market
📈 Rent Growth p.a.
+4.2% pa
Annual rental increase
Demand LevelHigh
👤 Tenant Profile
Medical professionals, university academics, and young families awaiting house completions.
💼 Investor Outlook
Strong capital growth prospects and low vacancy rates make it a defensive investment. Focus on properties with energy efficiency upgrades to attract premium tenants.
🚀 Growth Potential
Historical capital growth, infrastructure pipeline, and 5-year outlook.
+3.8%
1-Year Growth
+11.5% cumulative
3-Year Growth
+32.4% cumulative
5-Year Growth
📍 Growth Drivers
- Ongoing gentrification as original owners sell to young professional families.
- Proximity to the expanding North Canberra Hospital precinct.
- Limited new land supply in the inner Belconnen area.
- RZ2 zoning allowing for higher-value dual-occupancy redevelopment.
- Continued reputation of Maribyrnong Primary as a top-tier school.
⛔ Headwinds
- Higher interest rate environment impacting borrowing capacity for the $1m+ bracket.
- Increasing construction costs for renovations and extensions.
- Competition from newer, modern builds in Lawson.
🔮 5-Year Outlook
Expect steady, moderate growth outperforming the broader ACT market. Kaleen will likely solidify its status as a premium Belconnen suburb, mirroring the trajectory of Aranda.
🛡️ Crime & Safety
Safety index, trend comparison, and what to check locally.
8.5
Safety Score
Above Average
📉 Trend
Stable
vs last 12 months
🏙️ vs Metro Average
18% below ACT average crime rate
Relative comparison
Risk Categories
Property Crime: Low Personal Safety: Low Traffic Incidents: Medium
📋 What to Check Locally
General safety is high. Standard precautions regarding home security and car storage are sufficient.
⚠️ Risk Profile
Natural hazards and planning risks to verify before buying.
📋 Summary
Environmental risks are low, but property-specific due diligence regarding 1970s building materials is essential.
🌊 Flood Risk
Very low risk; suburb is largely elevated with effective storm-water infrastructure.
🔥 Bushfire Risk
Low risk, though properties bordering the northern green belts should maintain asset protection zones.
🏦 Insurance Impact
Standard premiums apply; no significant suburb-wide loading.
🗺️ Planning & Zoning
Development controls, overlays, and what's changing locally.
📐 Typical Zoning
RZ1 Suburban and RZ2 Suburban Core
🔲 Overlays
Precinct Code for Belconnen applies to specific redevelopment sites.
🏗️ Development Hotspots
Pockets adjacent to the Kaleen Plaza and along Maribyrnong Circuit.
RZ2 zoning allows for 'manor houses' and dual occupancies, which can significantly increase land value but may alter the immediate street character.
🌳 Liveability
Day-to-day experience — transport, amenity, green space, schools and healthcare.
🚌 Transport
Excellent road connectivity; bus services are frequent but indirect to the CBD.
🛍️ Amenity & Retail
Two local shopping centers provide all essentials including supermarkets and pharmacies.
🌲 Parks & Recreation
Abundant, with the Kaleen District Playing Fields serving as a major regional hub.
🏫 Schools
Exceptional; dual primary school options are a unique and powerful drawcard.
🏥 Healthcare
Superior access to North Canberra Hospital and Bruce specialist suites.
👥 Demographics
Who lives here — income, age, ownership, and education levels.
A stable, affluent demographic dominated by public sector professionals and families.
💵 Median Income
$128,500 per household
🏠 Ownership
78% owner-occupied or purchasing
🎂 Age Profile
Median age 38
🎓 Education
42% hold a bachelor degree or higher
📊 Age Distribution
High owner-occupancy rates typically correlate with better property maintenance and stronger community cohesion.
🏗️ Major Developments
Infrastructure pipeline and what it means for values and liveability.
📋 Overview
Focus is on small-scale residential infill and infrastructure upgrades rather than large commercial projects.
📈 Positive Impacts
- Upgrades to local playground and park facilities.
- Modernization of the North Canberra Hospital facilities nearby.
- Incremental RZ2 redevelopments improving housing diversity.
📉 Negative Impacts
- Temporary construction noise in RZ2 pockets.
- Increased street parking pressure near dual-occupancy sites.
🗺️ Nearby Suburb Comparison
How neighbouring suburbs stack up on price, lifestyle and who they suit.
📍Giralang
Position North
Price 10-15% cheaper
Lifestyle Smaller blocks, fewer amenities, but improving schools.
Best for First home buyers and budget-conscious families.
📍Lyneham
Position South
Price 20% more expensive
Lifestyle Inner-north vibe, closer to light rail and CBD.
Best for Urban professionals and high-budget renovators.
📍Lawson
Position West
Price Comparable for new builds
Lifestyle High density, modern townhouses, very small blocks.
Best for Those prioritizing 'new' over 'space'.
📍Bruce
Position South-West
Price Cheaper for units
Lifestyle Apartment heavy, student focused, less 'suburban'.
Best for Investors and university staff.
🔍 Similar Suburbs
Suburbs with a comparable profile — useful if this one is over budget or sold up.
Aranda
ACT
8.5/10
Bush setting, high-performing schools, and 1970s architecture.
Frenchs Forest
NSW
8.0/10
Middle-ring family stronghold with strong hospital proximity.
Wheelers Hill
VIC
7.8/10
Sprawling family homes, high owner-occupancy, and good schools.
Cook
ACT
8.1/10
Similar vintage and demographic profile within Belconnen.
💬 Community Sentiment
Aggregated themes from resident discussions, forums and local feedback.
📊 Overall Community Sentiment
Residents praise the suburb for its safety, 'old Canberra' feel, and the convenience of having everything within a 10-minute drive.
★★★★★
Family Life
We moved here for Maribyrnong Primary and stayed for the community; the kids can safely bike to their friends' houses through the underpasses.
Safety Schools
★★★★☆
Renovation
The blocks are huge but be prepared to spend on insulation. Our 1976 build was freezing until we retrofitted the windows.
Space Efficiency
★★★★★
Investment
I've never had a vacancy longer than a week. Nurses from the hospital and UC staff are excellent, reliable tenants.
Yield Demand
💡 Tailored Advice
Personalised guidance for every role in this market.
🧑💼 Buyer Strategy
- Prioritize properties on the 'high side' of the street for better views and drainage.
- Check the ACT Loose-Fill Asbestos Insulation Register for any history of 'Mr Fluffy' remediation.
- Look for RZ2 zoned blocks if you are considering a future dual-occupancy development.
- Verify school catchment boundaries as they are strictly enforced for Maribyrnong Primary.
- Factor in a budget for energy efficiency upgrades (EER) which are often low in original homes.
❓ Questions to Ask the Agent
- Has this property ever been tested for loose-fill asbestos (Mr Fluffy)?
- Are all extensions, decks, and carports fully approved by the ACT Planning Authority?
- What is the current EER (Energy Efficiency Rating) and are there reports available?
- Is the property within the priority catchment for Maribyrnong Primary School?
- Are there any known easements that would restrict a future pool or extension?
- What is the history of the plumbing and electrical wiring (original or upgraded)?
- Have there been any recent RZ2 developments approved in this immediate street?
🏷️ Seller Strategy
- Highlight any energy efficiency improvements (double glazing, solar) in marketing materials.
- Ensure gardens are neatly landscaped to emphasize the large block sizes.
- Obtain a pre-sale building and pest report to address any unapproved structures early.
- Target young families by emphasizing proximity to the two primary schools.
- Consider professional styling to modernize the appearance of 1970s interiors.
📣 Positioning Tips
Position the property as a 'forever home' with untapped potential. Focus on the lifestyle benefits of the location and the security of a large land holding.
💼 Investment Case
Kaleen offers a low-risk entry into the Canberra market with high land value components.
⚠️ Investment Risks
Low rental yields compared to apartments; high maintenance costs on older structures.
📈 Action Plan
- Target 3-4 bedroom houses with RZ2 zoning.
- Perform a thorough EER assessment.
- Market to medical and academic professionals.
- Consider long-term land banking for redevelopment.
🔑 Renter Tips
- Apply early for properties near the hospital.
- Ask about heating systems; gas ducted is common but can be expensive to run.
- Check if gardening is included in the lease for larger blocks.
🏘️ What Renters Love Here
Quiet streets and plenty of space for pets or children.
⚠️ Renter Watch-Outs
Older homes can be poorly insulated and expensive to heat in winter.
🏢 Landlord Strategy
- Install split-system air conditioning to meet modern tenant expectations.
- Ensure compliance with ACT minimum ceiling insulation standards.
- Maintain the garden to preserve the property's street appeal.
📋 Compliance & Management
Must adhere to ACT's strict residential tenancy laws including insulation and smoke alarm mandates.
🤝 Agent Insights
- Stock is tightly held; most owners stay for 15+ years.
- The 'school run' is the primary driver of weekend open home traffic.
- Buyers are increasingly wary of unapproved pergolas and sheds.
🎯 Marketing Angles
The 'Perfect Canberra Family Lifestyle' – space, schools, and central convenience.
👤 Target Buyer Profile
Professional couples with young children relocating from inner-north apartments.
✅ Due Diligence Checklist
Tap items to tick them off. Don't skip these before signing anything.
✓
Verify property on the ACT Loose-Fill Asbestos Insulation Register.✓
Review the Building, Pest, and Compliance Report (standard in ACT contracts).✓
Check ACTmapi for underground services and easements.✓
Confirm school catchment status via the ACT Education Directorate website.✓
Inspect for signs of 'magnesite' flooring in any unit/apartment blocks.✓
Assess the condition of the roof tiles and guttering (common 1970s fail points).✓
Evaluate the orientation of the block for solar passive heating potential.✓
Check for any heritage overlays (unlikely in Kaleen but good to verify).✓
Review the Crown Lease for any specific land use restrictions.✓
Confirm the status of the solar feed-in tariff if panels are installed.📚 Government Sources & Disclaimer
Official council and government links only. Always verify independently before any property decision.
🔗 planning.act.gov.au 🔗 actmapi.act.gov.au 🔗 abs.gov.au 🔗 education.act.gov.au 🔗 asbestos.act.gov.au
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Data is based on 2026 projections and historical trends. Buyers should conduct their own independent investigations and consult with qualified professionals before making any property purchase.
