Warehouse Space Demand Reaches Record Levels

Industrial property vacancy rates hit historic lows as e-commerce growth and supply chain restructuring drive unprecedented demand.

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Industrial property analysts report that warehouse vacancy rates across major Australian markets have reached historic lows, with demand far outpacing new supply.

Market Statistics

Vacancy Rates

MarketVacancy RateYoY Change
Sydney0.8%-0.4%
Melbourne1.2%-0.6%
Brisbane1.5%-0.3%
Perth2.8%-0.5%

Rental Growth

  • Sydney: +18% year-over-year
  • Melbourne: +15% year-over-year
  • Brisbane: +12% year-over-year

Demand Drivers

Strong demand attributed to:

  • Continued e-commerce growth requiring fulfilment space
  • Supply chain resilience strategies increasing inventory holdings
  • Nearshoring trends bringing manufacturing closer
  • 3PL expansion to meet client requirements

Outlook

Developers report significant new construction underway, but most is pre-committed. Relief for occupiers seeking space not expected until late 2024 at earliest.