Ten Things We’re Tackling at the 2026 Outlook Series

Australia’s development industry is heading into 2026 with more questions than answers—from interest rates and population growth to construction capacity and the future of policy reform, and more. 

The Urban Developer's 2026 Developer Outlook Lunch Series presented by Cotality brings the industry together to cut through the uncertainty and examine the forces that will shape the year ahead.

Across Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney, we’ll unpack the questions every developer is asking. Here are the 10 big themes we’ll be diving into.

Click here to select your city and meet the speakers

(1) What economic drivers will shift gears in 2026?

Inflation, productivity and sentiment are all moving pieces. Our keynote economist will pinpoint the indicators that actually matter and what they mean for demand, pricing and feasibility.

(2) How will policy change and what impact will it have?

Planning reform and housing policy are set to play a major role in supply. We’ll unpack the policy settings and approvals pathways likely to shape project pipelines in 2026.

(3) Will population growth slow down or accelerate?

Migration remains one of the biggest demand drivers. We’ll explore population trajectories and how they’ll influence residential, industrial, retail and mixed-use development.

(4) Have we reached the bottom of the interest rate cycle?

Rate movement will be pivotal for feasibility and funding. Expect insights into borrowing conditions, capital costs and the broader investment outlook.

(5) What major infrastructure announcements are on the horizon?

Transport and infrastructure commitments continue to reshape growth corridors. We’ll highlight the projects and priorities that could unlock new opportunities.

(6) Will global investors double-down on Australia’s safe-haven status?

Offshore capital remains active but selective. We’ll discuss sentiment, risk appetite and which sectors are attracting global attention.

(7) How will feasibilities stack up across markets and sectors?

With margins tight and costs elevated, feasibility remains the big hurdle. We’ll look at which cities and asset classes still stack and which may struggle.

(8) What is the outlook for construction costs and productivity?

Developers are hungry for stability. We’ll examine labour availability, procurement pressures and the productivity challenges shaping delivery risk.

(9) At what rate will house and unit prices continue to climb?

Pricing remains resilient despite affordability concerns. Expect a grounded look at supply, demand and the factors driving values in 2026.

(10) Where will AI and technology take the industry next?

AI is rapidly reshaping design, delivery and operations. We’ll explore the tools and innovations that could shift how development teams work.

Event details

Melbourne
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Noon–2.30pm
Metropolis, Melbourne
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Brisbane
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Noon–2.30pm
Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane
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Sydney
Thursday, February 26, 2026
Noon–2.30pm
Ilumina, Sydney
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