Investors Eye Defensive LFR Assets as WA Retail Shifts

Western Australia’s retail investment landscape is increasingly being influenced by large format retail (LFR) as investors eye defensive assets and developers move to capture the shift.

In 2025, WA recorded $413 million in retail transactions. Of this, LFR accounting for 59 per cent of activity—around $243 million—outpacing neighbourhood shopping centres, which totalled $137 million.

WA’s annual retail trade now sits at $54 billion, and household goods retailing is outperforming the national average by 23 basis points, supporting the categories that underpin LFR performance.

Investors are prioritising scale, accessibility, and essential retail exposure, attracted by strong tenant covenants, defensive income, and underlying land value.

These transactions point to a broader theme: capital is flowing toward retail assets closely aligned with population growth, infrastructure investment, and changing household spending patterns.

The Perth Developer Symposium next month will give industry stakeholders key insights into commercial, hospitality, purpose-built student accommodation, and other sectors in Perth, with discussions on how developers are positioning portfolios as demand shifts.

Session highlight

Panel | Looking Beyond Residential

• Sally Ockenden, head of development, GDI Property

• Kate Stevenson, project director, Sirona Urban 

• Kyle Jeavons, co-founder and director, H-U (Human-Urban)
  
  

The Perth Developer Symposium is designed for senior property professionals seeking a clear understanding of current market conditions and future development considerations in Western Australia.

To view the full program and register, visit the event page.

Perth Developer Symposium

Wednesday, March 11 and Thursday, March 12

Perth

Register here