The Proptrack Home Price Index shows that while national home prices rose by 0.22% in August, marking a new peak, the growth pace has slowed during the winter months. Overall, prices are now 6.16% higher than a year ago, with the combined capital cities seeing a 6.49% increase over the past year.

In August, Perth (+0.79%), Hobart (+0.63%), and Adelaide (+0.45%) led the growth among capital cities, while Sydney saw slower growth at 0.32%. Melbourne, however, experienced its fifth consecutive month of price declines, down 0.18% in August and 1.98% over the last five months.

Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane have been the fastest-growing markets over the past two years, with Perth prices surging 23.24% in the past year alone. Regional areas have seen slower growth compared to capital cities, with regional WA and Queensland leading in August.

As the spring selling season begins, strong population growth, tight rental markets, and home equity gains are expected to support further price increases, although affordability constraints may temper the pace of growth.