Kingaroy, located in Queensland’s South Burnett region, is quickly emerging as a potential property investment hotspot. Known for its agricultural heritage, the town is benefiting from significant regional infrastructure projects that will drive growth over the next two decades. With affordable property prices, proximity to larger urban centres, and upcoming developments, Kingaroy is poised to become an attractive destination for investors looking for long-term gains. Here are the top 10 infrastructure projects set to transform Kingaroy by 2040.

Top 10 Projects for Kingaroy (2020-2040)

1. South Burnett Rail Trail Expansion

The successful 44 km rail trail from Kingaroy to Murgon will be extended, promoting eco-tourism and attracting more visitors. This project will boost local businesses and drive regional development.

2. Kingaroy Transformation Project

A $13.9 million project to revitalize Kingaroy’s CBD, improving road infrastructure and beautifying the area. The transformation will make the town more attractive to residents, tourists, and new businesses.

3. Tarong Nuclear Plant Site Plan

The Tarong site is one of seven shortlisted locations for a potential nuclear power plant as part of a national energy plan. The plant, if approved, could be operational between 2035 and 2037, creating high-paying jobs and boosting the local economy. This project positions Kingaroy as a key player in Queensland’s energy future.

4. Renewable Energy Projects (Solar and Wind)

Kingaroy’s investment in solar and wind projects will generate jobs and provide clean energy for the region. These developments will attract further investment and create a stable economic base for Kingaroy.

5. Kingaroy Airport Upgrade

The planned upgrade of Kingaroy’s regional airport will improve connectivity to major Queensland cities, supporting tourism, logistics, and emergency services, further promoting regional growth.

6. Proston Dam Tourism Precinct

The proposed transformation of the Proston Dam area into a tourism precinct will include new accommodation, water sports, and recreational facilities, attracting visitors and boosting the local economy.

7. Nanango-Kingaroy Highway Upgrade

This highway upgrade will improve road safety and accessibility, making it easier for residents and tourists to travel between key centres. This project supports Kingaroy’s growth as a regional hub.

8. South Burnett Agricultural Precinct Development

With continued investment in agriculture, Kingaroy is modernising its farming sector. New technologies and food processing facilities will create jobs and solidify the town’s role as an agricultural centre.

9. Kingaroy Industrial Park Expansion

The expansion of Kingaroy’s Industrial Park will attract new businesses in manufacturing, logistics, and renewable energy, diversifying the economy and creating job opportunities.

10. Linville Dam Proposal

A potential dam on the Upper Brisbane River near Linville has been shortlisted as part of Queensland’s flood mitigation strategy. The dam could hold up to 1.17 million ML and cost up to $575 million. If approved, it will provide water security, flood control, and create jobs during and after construction, further strengthening Kingaroy’s regional importance.

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Current Property Market and Investment Potential

As of September 2024, both Kingaroy and Nanango are experiencing very tight rental markets. The vacancy rate in Kingaroy is hovering around 0.4%, which is extremely low, reflecting high demand for rentals and a shortage of available properties. Nanango is facing a similarly competitive market, with a vacancy rate of around 0.5%. These low vacancy rates have led to significant increases in rental prices, with Kingaroy rents rising by 17.8% and Nanango rents increasing by 17.6% over the past year ​(Smart Property Investment)​(South Burnett Regional Council)​(Real Estate Institute of Queensland).

This trend highlights the growing competition in the rental market, driven by several factors, including property owners selling homes rather than renting them out, and increased demand from workers moving into the region due to expanding infrastructure and job opportunities. The tight rental market makes Kingaroy and Nanango attractive options for property investors, who can expect high occupancy rates and solid rental returns.

Kingaroy and Nanango have also seen impressive changes in median home prices over time, reflecting the areas’ growth potential. In Kingaroy, the median home price has grown by 10.5% over the last five years. Looking at the last 10 years, the median price has risen by 5.32%, and over the past 25 years, Kingaroy has seen a 6.6% increase in median home prices. The best year for growth in Kingaroy was 2004, with a sharp rise of 29.0%, while the worst year was 2012, with a decline of -7.7% ​(Pricefinder Suburb Report).

Nanango, meanwhile, has experienced even stronger growth, with the median home price increasing by 12.5% over the past five years. Over the last 10 years, the price has risen by 6.67%, and over the past 25 years, Nanango’s median home price has seen an average growth of 8.004%. Nanango’s best year for growth was also in 2004, with an impressive 51.7% rise, while the worst year was 2013, with a fall of -10.2% ​(Pricefinder Suburb Report).

As of September 2024, the current median home price in Kingaroy is $412,500, while Nanango sits at $362,500. Median rent in Kingaroy is $495 per week, yielding a rental return of 6.6%, while Nanango’s median rent is $440 per week, giving a rental yield of 6.4%.

On the ground, both Kingaroy and Nanango are pleasant, welcoming communities with affordable housing, strong rental yields, and low vacancy rates, making them ideal for property investors. With significant infrastructure projects on the horizon and growing demand, these towns present an excellent opportunity for long-term investment and consistent returns.

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Conclusion: Kingaroy’s Future as a Property Investment Opportunity

Kingaroy is positioned for significant growth over the next two decades, with infrastructure projects ranging from renewable energy developments to large-scale tourism and agricultural investments. The potential construction of the Tarong nuclear plant and the Linville dam offer game-changing opportunities for the region, bringing high-paying jobs and long-term stability to the region.

These developments, combined with the town’s affordable real estate and tight rental market, make Kingaroy an attractive option for property investors. As these projects progress, property values are expected to rise, making now the perfect time to invest in this up-and-coming region. Investors who act early will benefit from Kingaroy’s transformation into a dynamic and diversified regional centre, with long-term growth potential across multiple sectors.