Dane Queenan
3/37 Soldiers Point Road, Soldiers Point, NSW 2317
Auction if not sold prior
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Auction Saturday 4 July 4:30 pm๐๏ธ About This Suburb (Last Updated Date: 2026-03-13)
History, Aboriginal heritage, and the story behind the name.
Soldiers Point โ Worimi Country
Initially a strategic military outpost, the area evolved into a fishing village before becoming a premier holiday destination in the mid-20th century. The construction of the marina transformed it into a luxury boating hub.
A high-end residential and holiday enclave characterized by luxury waterfront homes, a world-class marina, and a significant retiree population.
Overall Score
8
A premium lifestyle suburb with high desirability but significant entry costs.
Name Origin
Named after a garrison of soldiers stationed on the point in the 1820s to intercept escaping convicts from the Port Macquarie penal settlement.
Established
Gazetted 1963
Sunset Views
One of the few places on the East Coast where the sun sets over the water.
Marina Status
Home to an award-winning 5-gold anchor platinum marina.
Wildlife
Significant koala habitat corridor remains in the local reserves.
๐ Scorecard
12 key dimensions scored 0โ10. Each score includes a one-line explanation.
Market Momentum
7
Steady demand for luxury stock, though high interest rates have moderated the frantic pace of 2021-22.
Amenity
8
Exceptional boating, dining, and natural beauty, though major retail requires a drive to Salamander Bay.
Schools
7
The local public school is highly regarded and a major draw for young families.
Transport
4
Isolated at the end of a peninsula with limited public transport and one main access road.
Risk Profile
5
Vulnerable to coastal hazards and bushfire in specific pockets.
Liveability
9
Quiet, safe, and scenic; ideal for those who value a slower pace of life.
Demographics
7
Skewed towards older, affluent couples and retirees with high home ownership.
Rental Demand
6
High seasonal demand for holiday lets; moderate long-term rental demand due to high price points.
Growth Potential
7
Limited land supply on the peninsula ensures long-term scarcity value.
Affordability
4
One of the most expensive suburbs in the Port Stephens LGA.
Crime & Safety
9
Very low crime rates compared to state averages; a very safe community.
Walkability
6
Good for leisure walks along the foreshore, but car-dependent for daily errands.
โก Quick Snapshot
Key metrics at a glance, plus your top advantages and watch-outs.
Median House
$1,350,000
Estimated March 2026
Median Unit
$785,000
Strong marina-side demand
5yr Growth
48%
Cumulative house growth
Family Appeal
High
Excellent local primary school
Waterfronts
Premium
Can exceed $4m+ for prime spots
Safety
9.2/10
Very low incident rate
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Key Advantages
- Spectacular westward water views and world-class sunsets.
- Quiet, no-through-traffic environment due to peninsula location.
- High-quality local primary school within walking distance for most.
- Elite boating facilities and high-end dining at the marina.
- Strong sense of community and very low crime rates.
โ ๏ธ Key Watch-Outs
- Single access road can become congested during peak holiday periods.
- Significant coastal erosion and inundation risks for low-lying properties.
- Limited local shopping; 10-minute drive to Salamander Bay for essentials.
- High entry price point compared to neighboring suburbs.
- Risk of bushfire for properties bordering the western reserves.
๐๏ธ Suburb Overview
Character, property mix, price range and what drives value here.
๐๏ธ Character
Coastal Prestige
How this suburb feels day-to-day.
๐ Property Types
Mostly detached houses, with luxury apartments near the marina.
Dominant dwelling stock.
๐ฐ Price Range
$850k (older units) to $5m+ (waterfront estates)
Typical entry to ceiling.
๐ก Why It Matters
Soldiers Point represents the 'top end' of the Port Stephens market. It offers a more secluded, residential feel than Nelson Bay while maintaining high-end amenities, making it a primary target for sea-changers and high-net-worth holiday makers.
๐ฐ Price Guide & Market Trends
Medians, rental market, 5-year history and property split.
๐ House Median
$1,350,000
$1.1m – $4.5m
๐ข Unit Median
$785,000
$650k – $1.8m
๐ Price Trend
+4.2% over the past 12 months
12-month movement
๐ Weekly Rents
Houses $750pw, Units $580pw
Current asking rents
๐ 5-Year Price History
๐๏ธ Property Type Split
The market has transitioned from the rapid post-pandemic boom to a period of sustained, stable growth driven by scarcity and the 'lifestyle' premium of the peninsula.
๐ฏ Affordability
How this suburb compares to metro and state medians.
๐๏ธ vs Metro Average
25% below Sydney metro median
Price comparison
๐ Income Ratio
10.5x annual local income
Median price รท median income
๐ณ Gross Yield
3.2% gross yield
Estimated rental yield
More AffordableModeratePremium
Entry levelMid rangePremium
While cheaper than Sydney, it is expensive for the Hunter region. High property values relative to local incomes reflect the high proportion of out-of-area investors and retirees.
๐ฅ Rental Demand
Vacancy rates, demand pressure, tenant profile, and investor outlook.
๐ Vacancy Rate
1.4%
Lower = tighter market
โฑ๏ธ Days to Lease
22 days
Avg time on market
๐ Rent Growth p.a.
+6.5%
Annual rental increase
Demand LevelModerate
๐ค Tenant Profile
Professional families and retirees transitioning between homes.
๐ผ Investor Outlook
Long-term capital growth is the primary play here. Rental yields are modest for permanent lets, but short-term holiday rental potential is high for well-located properties.
๐ Growth Potential
Historical capital growth, infrastructure pipeline, and 5-year outlook.
+4.2%
1-Year Growth
+14.5%
3-Year Growth
+48%
5-Year Growth
๐ Growth Drivers
- Finite land supply on a narrow peninsula.
- Ongoing upgrades to the Soldiers Point Marina precinct.
- Increased work-from-home flexibility for Newcastle/Sydney professionals.
- High desirability for the 'silver tsunami' of retiring baby boomers.
โ Headwinds
- Rising insurance costs due to climate risk mapping.
- Limited local employment opportunities.
- Sensitivity to interest rate movements in the discretionary holiday home market.
๐ฎ 5-Year Outlook
Expect steady capital appreciation. As land becomes scarcer, older 1970s-80s homes will increasingly be targets for knockdown-rebuilds, further elevating the suburb's price floor.
๐ก๏ธ Crime & Safety
Safety index, trend comparison, and what to check locally.
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Safety Score
Excellent
๐ Trend
Stable
vs last 12 months
๐๏ธ vs Metro Average
40% below NSW state average crime rate
Relative comparison
Risk Categories
Theft: Low Vandalism: Low Assault: Very Low
๐ What to Check Locally
Standard home security is sufficient. Most 'crime' is opportunistic during peak tourist seasons.
โ ๏ธ Risk Profile
Natural hazards and planning risks to verify before buying.
๐ Summary
The primary physical risks are environmental, centered on the suburb's coastal exposure and bushland interface.
๐ Flood Risk
Low-lying areas near the marina and western foreshore are identified in council flood studies as vulnerable to sea-level rise and storm surges.
๐ฅ Bushfire Risk
Properties on the western side of the peninsula bordering the reserve are in designated bushfire prone zones.
๐ฆ Insurance Impact
Waterfront properties may face significantly higher premiums or exclusions for flood/sea-action damage.
๐บ๏ธ Planning & Zoning
Development controls, overlays, and what's changing locally.
๐ Typical Zoning
R2 Low Density Residential
๐ฒ Overlays
Coastal Risk Management, Bushfire Prone Land, Koala Habitat.
๐๏ธ Development Hotspots
Marina precinct and medium-density sites along Soldiers Point Road.
Strict environmental controls limit large-scale development, protecting the suburb's low-density character and value.
๐ณ Liveability
Day-to-day experience โ transport, amenity, green space, schools and healthcare.
๐ Transport
Car-dependent; limited bus service to Salamander Bay and Nelson Bay.
๐๏ธ Amenity & Retail
High-end dining at the marina and bowling club; excellent boat ramps.
๐ฒ Parks & Recreation
Abundant foreshore reserves and scenic walking tracks.
๐ซ Schools
Soldiers Point Public School is a standout local asset.
๐ฅ Healthcare
Local GP available; major hospitals located in Nelson Bay (Polyclinic) and Maitland/Newcastle.
๐ฅ Demographics
Who lives here โ income, age, ownership, and education levels.
An affluent, mature demographic with a high percentage of retirees and secondary home owners.
๐ต Median Income
$68,500 pa
๐ Ownership
78% owner-occupied or holiday owned
๐ Age Profile
Median age 56
๐ Education
High proportion of vocational and tertiary educated residents.
๐ Age Distribution
The high median age and ownership rate contribute to the suburb's quiet, stable, and well-maintained character.
๐๏ธ Major Developments
Infrastructure pipeline and what it means for values and liveability.
๐ Overview
Development is largely restricted to private residential renovations and marina upgrades.
๐ Positive Impacts
- Marina precinct revitalisation enhancing local dining.
- Foreshore infrastructure improvements by council.
- Knockdown-rebuilds increasing overall property quality.
๐ Negative Impacts
- Construction noise in quiet residential streets.
- Increased traffic on Soldiers Point Road during peak periods.
๐บ๏ธ Nearby Suburb Comparison
How neighbouring suburbs stack up on price, lifestyle and who they suit.
๐Salamander Bay
Position Adjacent South
Price 25% cheaper
Lifestyle More suburban, closer to major shopping centers.
Best for Families seeking value and convenience.
๐Corlette
Position East
Price Similar
Lifestyle Hilly terrain, closer to Nelson Bay CBD.
Best for Prestige buyers wanting proximity to town.
๐Nelson Bay
Position East
Price 15% cheaper (median)
Lifestyle Busy tourist hub, more apartments and nightlife.
Best for Investors and those wanting walkability to shops.
๐Taylors Beach
Position South-West
Price 40% cheaper
Lifestyle Industrial and semi-rural mix.
Best for Tradespeople and those needing large sheds/land.
๐ Similar Suburbs
Suburbs with a comparable profile โ useful if this one is over budget or sold up.
Green Point
NSW
7/10
Lakeside prestige with a quiet, peninsular feel.
Eleebana
NSW
8/10
High-end Lake Macquarie suburb with strong family appeal.
Noosa Heads
QLD
9/10
Premium coastal enclave with high holiday demand (though much more expensive).
St Huberts Island
NSW
8/10
Exclusive canal/waterfront living with limited access.
๐ฌ Community Sentiment
Aggregated themes from resident discussions, forums and local feedback.
๐ Overall Community Sentiment
Residents love the peace and the sunsets, often describing it as a 'hidden gem' that avoids the worst of the Nelson Bay crowds.
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Peace and Quiet
The sunsets over the bay are world-class, and I feel completely safe walking my dog at any hour.
Safety Views
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Marina Lifestyle
Having the marina right here is incredible. It's a premium facility and the dining options are getting better every year.
Amenities Boating
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Education
The primary school is fantastic, but we do find ourselves driving to Salamander Bay constantly for groceries.
Schools Convenience
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Holiday Crowds
Christmas is a bit of a nightmare with the traffic on the one main road, but the rest of the year it's paradise.
Traffic Lifestyle
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Capital Growth
The land value here is rock solid. Even in a downturn, Soldiers Point holds its value better than the surrounding areas.
Growth Yield
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Natural Beauty
Moving here from Sydney was the best decision. The wildlife, especially the koalas and dolphins, is just magical.
Nature Environment
๐ก Tailored Advice
Personalised guidance for every role in this market.
๐งโ๐ผ Buyer Strategy
- Prioritize properties with a westward aspect to maximize the suburb's unique sunset appeal.
- Check the Port Stephens Council flood maps specifically for 'coastal inundation' overlays.
- Look for older homes on large blocks; these offer the best long-term capital growth through renovation or rebuild.
- Factor in the cost of high-quality window treatments and maintenance due to salt spray.
- Verify the 'koala habitat' status of any trees on the property before planning extensions.
- Investigate the specific bushfire attack level (BAL) for properties near the western reserves.
โ Questions to Ask the Agent
- Is this property identified in the Port Stephens Council Coastal Zone Management Plan?
- What is the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating for this specific lot?
- Are there any easements or koala habitat protections that restrict building or clearing?
- What is the history of salt spray damage on the external fixtures and roof?
- Can you provide a record of the holiday rental income for the past three years?
- How does the single access road affect traffic flow during the peak Christmas/Easter periods?
- Are there any planned upgrades or developments for the Soldiers Point Marina?
- What are the typical insurance premiums for a property in this specific street?
๐ท๏ธ Seller Strategy
- Highlight the 'sunset' aspect in all marketing photography—it is your biggest USP.
- Ensure any unapproved structures (decks, sheds) are regularized, as buyers here are diligent.
- Professional styling is essential to meet the expectations of the 'prestige' buyer profile.
- Target the Newcastle and Sydney 'sea-changer' market through digital campaigns.
- Showcase the proximity to the marina and local dining as a lifestyle package.
๐ฃ Positioning Tips
Position the property as a 'tranquil alternative' to Nelson Bay. Emphasize the exclusivity of the peninsula and the high-end community feel.
๐ผ Investment Case
High-end holiday rental or long-term capital growth play.
โ ๏ธ Investment Risks
Low rental yields on permanent lets and high maintenance costs due to the marine environment.
๐ Action Plan
- Focus on 3+ bedroom houses with water views for maximum holiday rental appeal.
- Consider a professional holiday management agency to maximize seasonal peaks.
- Budget for higher-than-average insurance and maintenance.
- Monitor council planning for any changes to short-term rental regulations.
๐ Renter Tips
- Be prepared for high competition for the few long-term rentals that become available.
- Check for adequate heating/cooling as older coastal homes can be poorly insulated.
- Ask about garden maintenance, as many properties have large, established landscapes.
๐๏ธ What Renters Love Here
Access to a premium lifestyle and elite school zone without the multi-million dollar buy-in.
โ ๏ธ Renter Watch-Outs
Limited public transport makes a car essential for almost all errands.
๐ข Landlord Strategy
- Invest in high-quality fixtures that can withstand the salt air.
- Consider allowing pets to broaden the appeal to the local family/retiree market.
- Ensure smoke alarm and pool safety compliance is strictly documented.
๐ Compliance & Management
Strict adherence to NSW Fair Trading rental laws and local council short-term rental (STRA) registration if holiday letting.
๐ค Agent Insights
- The market is driven by 'emotional' buyers looking for a lifestyle change.
- Stock levels are traditionally very low, leading to strong competition for prime sites.
- Waterfront properties are often sold off-market through local databases.
๐ฏ Marketing Angles
The 'Sunset Capital of Port Stephens' and 'Elite Boating Lifestyle'.
๐ค Target Buyer Profile
Affluent retirees, Sydney/Newcastle professionals, and luxury holiday home seekers.
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Due Diligence Checklist
Tap items to tick them off. Don't skip these before signing anything.
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Review Port Stephens Council Flood and Coastal Risk maps.โ
Order a comprehensive building and pest inspection with a focus on salt corrosion.โ
Check the NSW Planning Portal for any nearby development applications.โ
Verify the property's inclusion in the Rural Fire Service bushfire prone land map.โ
Confirm the school catchment zone for Soldiers Point Public School.โ
Assess the condition of any private jetties or waterfront infrastructure.โ
Review the Section 10.7 Planning Certificate for all overlays.โ
Check for any heritage listings or significant tree registers.โ
Evaluate the potential for sea-level rise impact over a 50-year horizon.โ
Inspect the property at sunset to verify the 'view' claims.โ
Check mobile and NBN coverage, as peninsula locations can have dead zones.โ
Review the strata minutes if purchasing a unit near the marina.๐ Government Sources & Disclaimer
Official council and government links only. Always verify independently before any property decision.
๐ portstephens.nsw.gov.au ๐ planningportal.nsw.gov.au ๐ abs.gov.au ๐ rfs.nsw.gov.au ๐ environment.nsw.gov.au
โ ๏ธ Important Disclaimer
This report is based on data available as of 2026-03-13 and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial or legal advice. Buyers should conduct their own independent due diligence and consult with qualified professionals before making any property purchase.
