Mark Larmer And Aaron Lewis
24A Castlereagh Crescent, Macquarie, ACT 2614
Offers over $1,085,000
4 3 3
Open Saturday 6 June 9:40 am🏛️ About This Suburb (Last Updated Date: 2026-03-13)
History, Aboriginal heritage, and the story behind the name.
Macquarie — Ngunnawal Country
Developed in the late 1960s as one of the foundation suburbs of the Belconnen district. It was designed with a focus on generous block sizes and integrated green spaces to support the post-war family boom.
Today, Macquarie is a sought-after 'inner-north' Belconnen suburb undergoing significant renewal as young professionals renovate original 1970s homes.
Overall Score
8.2
A top-tier Belconnen suburb offering a balance of lifestyle, education, and investment potential.
Name Origin
Named after Lachlan Macquarie, Governor of New South Wales from 1810 to 1821.
Established
Gazetted 1967
Greenery
High canopy cover
Retail Hub
Home to Jamison Centre
Zoning
High proportion of RZ2
📊 Scorecard
12 key dimensions scored 0–10. Each score includes a one-line explanation.
Market Momentum
7.4
Steady demand for detached housing remains resilient despite broader interest rate pressures.
Amenity
9.2
Exceptional access to the Jamison Centre, which serves as a premier local community hub.
Schools
8.8
Macquarie Primary is highly regarded and a major drawcard for young families.
Transport
7.6
Well-serviced by rapid bus routes to the City and Belconnen Town Centre.
Risk Profile
6.8
Main risks involve legacy asbestos issues and the costs of developing RZ2 sites.
Liveability
9.0
Quiet, leafy streets combined with walkable access to high-quality cafes and services.
Demographics
8.2
A stable mix of established retirees and an increasing influx of high-income young families.
Rental Demand
8.4
High demand for family homes and modern townhouses due to proximity to the University of Canberra.
Growth Potential
7.9
Strong due to RZ2 zoning allowing for dual-occupancy and medium-density infill.
Affordability
4.5
One of the more expensive suburbs in Belconnen, often outpricing first-home buyers.
Crime & Safety
8.6
Generally very safe with lower-than-average incident rates for the ACT.
Walkability
7.8
Highly walkable around the Jamison precinct, though outer streets are more car-dependent.
⚡ Quick Snapshot
Key metrics at a glance, plus your top advantages and watch-outs.
Median House
$1,155,000
Estimated March 2026
Median Unit
$595,000
Includes townhouses
12mo Growth
4.2%
Steady capital appreciation
Family Ratio
68%
Predominantly family households
School Zone
Macquarie Primary
Top-rated local school
CBD Distance
7km
Short commute to Civic
✅ Key Advantages
- Exceptional local shopping and dining at the Jamison Centre.
- Large block sizes (typically 700sqm+) with RZ2 zoning potential.
- Highly regarded local primary school within walking distance for most.
- Proximity to major employment hubs: Belconnen CBD, Calvary Hospital, and UC.
- Mature, leafy streetscapes providing excellent natural shade and privacy.
⚠️ Key Watch-Outs
- Presence of 'Mr Fluffy' (loose-fill asbestos) legacy sites in the suburb.
- High entry price point compared to neighboring Page or Scullin.
- Significant traffic congestion around Jamison Centre during peak hours.
- Strict ACT heritage or planning guidelines on specific older 'ex-gov' builds.
- Increasing density due to RZ2 redevelopment changing street character.
🏘️ Suburb Overview
Character, property mix, price range and what drives value here.
🏙️ Character
Established Family
How this suburb feels day-to-day.
🏠 Property Types
Mostly detached houses, increasing dual-occupancy and townhouses.
Dominant dwelling stock.
💰 Price Range
$850k (units/small townhouses) – $1.8m+ (renovated/RZ2 houses)
Typical entry to ceiling.
💡 Why It Matters
Macquarie represents the 'blue-chip' end of Belconnen. Its RZ2 zoning makes it a dual-target for both lifestyle buyers and small-scale developers, ensuring long-term land value resilience.
💰 Price Guide & Market Trends
Medians, rental market, 5-year history and property split.
🏠 House Median
$1,155,000
$980k – $1.75m
🏢 Unit Median
$595,000
$480k – $850k
📈 Price Trend
+4.2% 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 unrenovated and renovated homes is widening, reflecting the high value placed on 'move-in ready' properties in this premium pocket.
🎯 Affordability
How this suburb compares to metro and state medians.
🏙️ vs Metro Average
8% above Canberra median house price
Price comparison
📋 Income Ratio
8.4x annual household income
Median price ÷ median income
💳 Gross Yield
3.6% gross yield for houses
Estimated rental yield
More AffordableModeratePremium
Entry levelMid rangePremium
Macquarie is becoming increasingly difficult for average earners to enter without significant equity, pushing many towards units or neighboring suburbs.
🔥 Rental Demand
Vacancy rates, demand pressure, tenant profile, and investor outlook.
📊 Vacancy Rate
1.4%
Lower = tighter market
⏱️ Days to Lease
18 days
Avg time on market
📈 Rent Growth p.a.
+5.5%
Annual rental increase
Demand Level
High
👤 Tenant Profile
Healthcare workers from Calvary, academics from UC, and young families.
💼 Investor Outlook
Strong capital growth prospects and low vacancy rates make it a safe 'land bank' play, especially for RZ2 blocks.
🚀 Growth Potential
Historical capital growth, infrastructure pipeline, and 5-year outlook.
+4.2%
1-Year Growth
+12.5% cumulative
3-Year Growth
+29.8% cumulative
5-Year Growth
📍 Growth Drivers
- RZ2 zoning allowing for high-value dual-occupancy developments.
- Continued gentrification as original 1970s owners downsize.
- Proximity to the expanding Belconnen Town Centre and hospital precinct.
- High demand for the Macquarie Primary School catchment area.
⛔ Headwinds
- High interest rate environment impacting borrowing capacity for $1m+ homes.
- Increased supply of townhouses potentially diluting unit-style growth.
- Rising construction costs for those looking to utilize RZ2 zoning.
🔮 5-Year Outlook
Expect steady outperformance of the broader Belconnen market, driven by its status as a 'destination' suburb for families and the ongoing conversion of single dwellings into dual-occupancies.
🛡️ 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
12% below ACT average crime rate
Relative comparison
Risk Categories
Property Crime: Low
Personal Safety: Low
Traffic Incidents: Medium
📋 What to Check Locally
Check lighting and security if purchasing near the Jamison Centre commercial car parks where opportunistic theft can occur.
⚠️ Risk Profile
Natural hazards and planning risks to verify before buying.
📋 Summary
The primary risks are environmental (legacy asbestos) and financial (high entry cost and development complexity).
🌊 Flood Risk
Very low risk; suburb is well-elevated with modern drainage infrastructure.
🔥 Bushfire Risk
Low risk; fully surrounded by urban development, though proximity to Aranda bushland should be noted.
🏦 Insurance Impact
Generally standard, but premiums may be affected if a property has a history of loose-fill asbestos remediation.
🗺️ Planning & Zoning
Development controls, overlays, and what's changing locally.
📐 Typical Zoning
RZ2 Suburban Core
🔲 Overlays
Multi-unit housing development codes apply to RZ2 areas.
🏗️ Development Hotspots
Streets immediately surrounding the Jamison Centre and Macquarie Primary.
RZ2 zoning is a significant value-add, allowing for two dwellings on a single block, subject to ACT planning approvals.
🌳 Liveability
Day-to-day experience — transport, amenity, green space, schools and healthcare.
🚌 Transport
Excellent bus connectivity via the R3 and R4 rapid routes; easy access to Belconnen Way.
🛍️ Amenity & Retail
Top-tier; Jamison Centre provides supermarkets, specialty shops, and a popular weekly market.
🌲 Parks & Recreation
Abundant local playgrounds and proximity to the Big Splash Waterpark and Cook neighborhood ovals.
🏫 Schools
Macquarie Primary is a standout; also zoned for Canberra High School.
🏥 Healthcare
Minutes away from North Canberra Hospital (formerly Calvary) and various specialist clinics.
👥 Demographics
Who lives here — income, age, ownership, and education levels.
A professional and educated demographic with a high percentage of multi-generational households.
💵 Median Income
$115,000 pa (household)
🏠 Ownership
65% owner-occupied, 35% renting
🎂 Age Profile
Median age 38
🎓 Education
High; over 45% hold a bachelor degree or higher.
📊 Age Distribution
The high owner-occupancy rate and professional demographic support stable property prices and well-maintained streetscapes.
🏗️ Major Developments
Infrastructure pipeline and what it means for values and liveability.
📋 Overview
Ongoing medium-density infill and potential future upgrades to the Jamison Centre precinct.
📈 Positive Impacts
- Increased local housing diversity through dual-occupancy.
- Modernization of older retail spaces at Jamison.
- Improved public transport frequency on major corridors.
📉 Negative Impacts
- Loss of backyard space and 'leafy' feel in some RZ2 streets.
- Increased street parking pressure near new developments.
🗺️ Nearby Suburb Comparison
How neighbouring suburbs stack up on price, lifestyle and who they suit.
📍Cook
Position
South
Price
More expensive
Lifestyle
More 'boutique' feel, closer to Black Mountain reserve.
Best for
High-end lifestyle buyers.
📍Page
Position
West
Price
More affordable
Lifestyle
Smaller blocks, fewer RZ2 opportunities.
Best for
First home buyers and budget-conscious families.
📍Aranda
Position
South-East
Price
Significantly more expensive
Lifestyle
Premium bushland setting, very high demand.
Best for
Executive families.
📍Belconnen
Position
North
Price
Lower (Unit-heavy)
Lifestyle
High-rise living, urban commercial hub.
Best for
Investors and downsizers.
🔍 Similar Suburbs
Suburbs with a comparable profile — useful if this one is over budget or sold up.
Downer
ACT
8.4/10
Established leafy suburb with RZ2 zoning and strong community feel.
Garran
ACT
8.6/10
Strong school catchment and proximity to major hospital/employment hubs.
Weetangera
ACT
8.1/10
Large blocks and high-performing local primary school.
Curtin
ACT
8.5/10
Central location with a very popular local shopping precinct (Jamison equivalent).
💬 Community Sentiment
Aggregated themes from resident discussions, forums and local feedback.
📊 Overall Community Sentiment
Residents love the 'village' feel of the Jamison Centre and the suburb's central location. It is widely considered one of the best places in Belconnen to raise a family.
★★★★★
Community & Lifestyle
Walking to Jamison for coffee on Saturday mornings is a ritual; the community vibe here is unmatched in Belconnen.
Community
Amenities
★★★★☆
Investment Potential
The RZ2 zoning was a big draw for us. We bought an older house with plans to build a secondary residence later.
Zoning
Growth
★★★★★
Convenience
Everything I need is at my doorstep. I rarely need to drive to the City or the mall.
Convenience
Walkability
★★★★★
Education
Macquarie Primary has been fantastic for our kids; the school community is very active and welcoming.
Schools
★★★☆☆
Rental Market
It's a great place to live but rents are getting quite steep for what are often older, uninsulated houses.
Location
Affordability
★★★★☆
Development
I worry about the new dual-occupancies taking away the privacy of our backyards, but I suppose that's progress.
Character
Privacy
💡 Tailored Advice
Personalised guidance for every role in this market.
🧑💼 Buyer Strategy
- Prioritize RZ2 zoned blocks for long-term value, even if you don't plan to develop immediately.
- Always check the ACT Loose-fill Asbestos (Mr Fluffy) register before making an offer.
- Look for properties with updated double-glazing; original 1970s homes in Macquarie can be very cold in winter.
- Focus on the Macquarie Primary catchment if you have young children, as it significantly aids resale value.
- Attend a few auctions locally to understand the 'Jamison premium'—properties near the shops often go for 10% more.
❓ Questions to Ask the Agent
- Is this property on the Loose-fill Asbestos (Mr Fluffy) register or has it been remediated?
- Does the block meet the minimum requirements for a dual-occupancy development under RZ2?
- What is the current EER (Energy Efficiency Rating) and has the insulation been upgraded?
- Are there any known easements that would affect building a second dwelling?
- Is the property within the priority enrollment area for Macquarie Primary School?
- Have there been any recent RZ2 developments in this immediate street?
- What are the typical settlement terms the vendors are looking for?
🏷️ Seller Strategy
- Highlight RZ2 potential in marketing materials to attract both families and small developers.
- Minor cosmetic renovations to kitchens and bathrooms yield high returns here due to the professional demographic.
- Ensure gardens are tidy; the 'leafy' character is a major selling point for Macquarie.
- Provide a clear building and pest report upfront to streamline the auction process.
- Position the property's proximity to Jamison Centre as a key lifestyle benefit.
📣 Positioning Tips
Focus on the 'Lifestyle and Land' angle. Emphasize the rare combination of a large, developable block within walking distance of one of Canberra's best local hubs.
💼 Investment Case
High-income tenant pool and RZ2 development upside.
⚠️ Investment Risks
Higher entry costs and potential for legislative changes to ACT land taxes.
📈 Action Plan
- Target RZ2 blocks over 700sqm.
- Consider a 'buy and hold' strategy with a minor refresh to maximize rent.
- Monitor ACT planning changes regarding unit titles for dual-occupancies.
- Verify the asbestos status of any property built before 1985.
🔑 Renter Tips
- Be ready to move fast; family homes in this catchment lease very quickly.
- Check the energy efficiency rating (EER); older homes can have high heating costs.
- Look for properties with reverse-cycle air conditioning.
🏘️ What Renters Love Here
Quiet streets, great schools, and amazing coffee shops nearby.
⚠️ Renter Watch-Outs
Older homes may have poor insulation and dated interiors.
🏢 Landlord Strategy
- Invest in energy efficiency upgrades to attract long-term professional tenants.
- Regularly maintain the large gardens typical of the area to preserve property value.
- Consider long-term leases for families tied to the school year.
📋 Compliance & Management
Ensure compliance with ACT's minimum ceiling insulation standards (mandatory as of 2023/24).
🤝 Agent Insights
- The 'Jamison factor' is the biggest driver of local price premiums.
- Stock levels are typically low as residents tend to stay for 10+ years.
- Dual-occupancy potential is the primary interest for 40% of house inquiries.
🎯 Marketing Angles
The 'Perfect Family Pocket' meets 'Smart Development Potential'.
👤 Target Buyer Profile
Upsizing families and local 'mum and dad' developers.
✅ Due Diligence Checklist
Tap items to tick them off. Don't skip these before signing anything.
✓
Verify RZ2 zoning and block size via ACTmapi.
✓
Check the Asbestos Response Taskforce register for 'Mr Fluffy' history.
✓
Review the Lease Conveyancing File for any unapproved structures.
✓
Confirm the property is within the Macquarie Primary School catchment.
✓
Assess the EER report and insulation compliance.
✓
Check for any heritage overlays (rare but possible for specific designs).
✓
Inspect for signs of 1970s plumbing or electrical issues.
✓
Evaluate the potential for a secondary residence or unit titling.
✓
Analyze recent comparable sales within 500m of the Jamison Centre.
✓
Review the ACT Government's Territory Plan for any upcoming changes to RZ2 codes.
✓
Check for large trees that may be 'regulated' or 'registered' under ACT law.
✓
Verify the presence of any underground services that could hinder development.
📚 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 March 2026 and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial or legal advice. Buyers should conduct their own independent investigations and consult with qualified professionals before making any property purchase.
