Sydney Projects

Rouse Hill Investment Properties: How the 2026 Tax Changes Make New Builds the Only Smart Play

The 2026 tax changes restrict negative gearing to new builds. Here's why Rouse Hill is the standout location for property investors building new.

TL;DR The 2026 federal budget killed negative gearing on established investment properties purchased after 12 May 2026. New builds are exempt — they keep full negative gearing and the 50 per cent CGT discount. For investors, this completely changes the equation. Rouse Hill is one of the strongest new-build locations in Sydney: a $910 million hospital under construction, metro already running, a $200 million town centre expansion, and population growing at five times the metro average. If you are investing in property in 2026, building new in a high-growth corridor like Rouse Hill is now the most tax-efficient strategy available. Introduction The rules have changed. If you are a property investor, the May 2026 budget drew a hard line: established properties and new builds are no longer trea…