The only score that matters

Beware a wounded Queenslander, especially one feeling the wrath of poor refereeing during a State of Origin opener. Did you catch the Maroons’ loss in Sydney this week? The one that ended in a controversial 22-20 victory to the Blues after Kalyn Ponga was sent off. It’s not an Origin game without controversy, and Queensland being forced to play a man down has set up a belter of a Game II showdown at the MCG on June 17.

In the midst of this week’s Origin action, new data dropped reflecting the Brisbane market’s resistance to outside forces, including developments in the Middle East and RBA decisions.

“The Real Estate Institute of Queensland’s (REIQ) latest median sales data for the March 2026 quarter (January–March 2026) shows Queensland’s housing market continues its northerly trajectory, underpinned by tight supply conditions and strong underlying demand, even as rising interest rates, global uncertainty, tax reforms, and weakening consumer sentiment cloud the outlook.”

The media release goes on to say Brisbane’s median house price rose 3.18% over the quarter to $1.46 million, while units increased 6.7% to $880,000.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said Queensland’s market has shown resilience and, despite strengthening headwinds, the fundamentals driving the market have not disappeared: tight listing numbers, a lack of new stock, and strong population growth.

Ms Mercorella warned that while the market may be resilient, it is not invincible, although I’ve got to add that any moderation ahead is not unexpected after consecutive years of exceptional gains. Long term, as Brisbane enters a historic Olympic era, the fundamentals supporting further outstanding growth remain exceptionally strong.

I hope you enjoy the read.

Matt Lancashire