‘There will be more growth here over time’: What is the allure of living in Googong?

When you think of Googong, you might think of a tight-knit community, a place for families and first-home owners, or you might even think of the infamous Boogong festivities. 

But when you think of Googong, do you think of a successful and high-return investment market? If not, you might need to shift your thinking. 

The NSW suburb has boomed since its inception, luring across the border many who once thought of themselves as Canberrans.   

According to the latest Domain House Price Report, Googong’s median house price increased by 51.8 per cent year-on-year to $1.01 million.

It’s not just all new home owners and young families buying into the area, but also those entering the investment property market. 

Gavin van Zyl from White Rhino Property Googong-Queanbeyan-Jerrabomberra is the man of the hour when it comes to property in Googong, and said he wasn’t surprised to see a constant stream of investment in the area.   

“There are so many benefits to buying in Googong, whether you’re buying as an investment or to live,” he said.  

“The rental market is very strong, and the vacancy rates are below one per cent. The yields and returns are very good and we are seeing people invest in the area.”

The Domain Rent Report showed Googong’s median rental yield to be 4.01 per cent.

Van Zyl also said buyers were charged significantly less land tax in NSW than in the ACT. He’s not the only one in the industry who sees Googong’s potential.

Michael Edwards of Ian McNamee & Partners Queanbeyan/Jerrabomberra/Canberra said while he had seen Googong’s rental popularity grow, it was still its community feel that appealed to all kinds of residents.  

“I think people are first attracted to a new suburb and a new build, and then you see the flow-on effect of people wanting to move out closer to their families,” he said. 

“My partner and I bought a townhouse out there and it’s that family living [that attracts] us because we have our own family there too.” 

The improvement of arterial roads in the region means Googong is a 15-minute drive to Tuggeranong, 25 minutes to the airport, and 30 to the city. 

Accessibility is just one reason Van Zyl has also put money into the region.  

“I myself have invested in this area and I think it’s going to grow further – I wouldn’t put my money into it if I didn’t truly believe that,” Van Zyl said.  

“There will be more growth here over time as the infrastructure developments roll out, and it’ll bring more people into the area.”

At the moment, Googong has an IGA, a kinder to year 12 private school and a public primary school under construction and due for completion next year. Not to mention the mighty Googong Hogs – a football and netball club to get behind. 

With developments underway for a new public school and plans for a larger shopping precinct, it won’t be long until Googong is completely self-sufficient. 

With around 2000 homes in the region at the moment and plans to reach 6500, it doesn’t seem the popularity will slow anytime soon.