At TENfold, we often say that property investment is a finance journey with real estate attached. With interest rates sitting higher than we’ve seen in a decade, many “retail” investors have retreated to the sidelines.

However, the sophisticated investor knows that a rising tide doesn’t lift all boats—but a steady current in the right locations can still drive incredible wealth. While the “Trunk” of your investment (your finance) might be costing more to maintain right now, the “Branches” (the assets you choose) are where the growth is found.

Despite the rate hikes, certain pockets of Australia are showing resilience through low vacancy, massive infrastructure spend, and diverse economies.

Here are the 10 hotspots across Australia that are currently on the radar of savvy investors.

1. Alkimos, WA

Perth’s northern coastal corridor is currently the “golden child” of capital growth. Alkimos is benefiting from the METRONET rail extension, which has slashed commute times to the CBD. With a median price still accessible compared to the east coast and vacancy rates hovering near zero, it’s a classic “buy-and-hold” growth play.

2. Logan, QLD

Situated perfectly between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Logan remains a high-yield powerhouse. While many Sydney and Melbourne suburbs struggle to reach 3% yields, Logan is still regularly delivering 5%+ returns. The massive investment in the Logan Hospital and M1 upgrades makes this a staple for those looking to offset higher interest costs with cash flow.

3. Townsville (Cosgrove & surrounds), QLD

North Queensland is entering a new super-cycle. Driven by a booming green energy sector and significant military expansions, Townsville offers something rare: house prices under $600k with yields that can actually make a property “cash-flow positive” even at 6% interest rates.

4. Kwinana, WA

If you’re looking for the “industrial heartland” play, Kwinana in Perth’s south is it. As Australia reinvests in local manufacturing and lithium processing, the demand for housing for the local workforce has skyrocketed. It’s one of the few places in the country where you can still find properties that “wash their own face” (cover their own costs) in today’s rate environment.

5. Geelong, VIC

While the Melbourne CBD market has been sluggish, Geelong continues to attract “sea-changers” and professionals who only need to commute to the city twice a week. With the Spirit of Tasmania now based there and a revitalized waterfront, Geelong offers a “lifestyle hedge” that protects value when the wider market dips.

6. Toowoomba, QLD

Inland cities are often overlooked, but Toowoomba’s diverse economy—spanning agriculture, education, and health—makes it incredibly resilient. With the upcoming Inland Rail project and a brand-new airport, it is no longer a “sleepy country town” but a sophisticated regional hub with tight rental stock.

7. Blacktown, NSW

Sydney’s west is where the smart money stays. Despite higher entry prices, the infrastructure surrounding the new Western Sydney (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is creating a “second city” effect. Suburbs like Blacktown and St Marys are targets for investors looking for long-term “Blue Chip” growth within the nation’s largest economy.

8. Port Pirie, SA

For the pure yield-chasers, South Australia’s regional industrial towns are standing tall. Port Pirie has seen rental yields climb toward double digits in some pockets. While capital growth is slower than the capitals, the sheer rental income is helping investors “service” their larger portfolios elsewhere.

9. Mandogalup, WA

A rising star in Greater Perth, Mandogalup is a master-planned success story. It’s attracting young families who are priced out of the inner suburbs but want modern, energy-efficient homes. For investors, this means high-quality tenants and strong depreciation benefits (the “Leaves” of your strategy).

10. Tamworth, NSW

As a major regional service center, Tamworth doesn’t rely on a single industry. Its “sticky” population and $500m+ hospital redevelopment are driving a shortage of rental accommodation. It’s an ideal entry point for investors who want a stable regional asset with a median price point that doesn’t require a massive mortgage.

The TENfold Takeaway

Investing when rates are high requires more than just a “gut feeling”—it requires a Property Investment Blueprint (PIB).

Selecting the right location is only the “Branch” of your strategy. To truly succeed, you need to ensure your Roots (strategy) and Trunk (finance structure) are strong enough to withstand the wind.

Are you ready to see if your current portfolio is optimised for the year ahead? [Book a Strategy Session with a TENfold Advisor today] and let’s ensure your property tree is built for a lifetime of harvests.