In Brisbane’s dynamic property landscape, few factors exert as much influence on housing demand as school catchments. Among them, Brisbane State High School (BSHS) stands out as a driving force, shaping the real estate trends of West End.
Read: West End’s Future: Skyscrapers Rising Above the Floodplain
With its stellar reputation, rich history, and a track record of producing Olympians, judges, and sports icons, the school has become a magnet for families seeking top-tier education. But as demand surges, both the property market and the school’s enrolment policies are facing mounting pressure.
For many families, securing a spot at BSHS is a top priority. One father, unable to find an affordable home in the area, made the strategic decision to rent in West End instead. The move ensured his child’s enrolment at the sought-after institution, and he has no regrets.
His story is not unique. Real estate listings frequently highlight properties within the school’s catchment, reflecting the immense value attached to this educational advantage. For families prioritising quality education, the West End market has become fiercely competitive.
The latest data revealed the impact of this demand: the median price for a three-bedroom house in West End soared to $1.65 million in the year to December—a staggering 17.9 per cent increase. With in-catchment eligibility playing a crucial role in enrolments, many parents are willing to invest in the suburb’s high-priced housing market. This trend has transformed West End into a hot property zone, where proximity to BSHS often trumps other factors in home-buying decisions.
A Shift Towards Local Students
BSHS has long maintained a balance between merit-based and in-catchment enrolments. However, the Education Department recently announced a shift, reducing the proportion of merit-based admissions from 50 per cent to 35 per cent. This adjustment will increase local student intake to 65 per cent, making access for out-of-catchment applicants significantly more challenging.
According to David Gillespie, former chair of the BSHS council, the rising demand for in-catchment enrolments—alongside concerns about families exploiting address eligibility—may force the school to implement a lottery system for admissions. Such a move would add further unpredictability to the already competitive enrolment process.
The Future: Will a New School Alleviate Pressure?
As BSHS’s popularity continues to grow, the Queensland Schools Planning Reference Committee has recognised the need for additional educational infrastructure. A 2024 report suggests that a new primary school may be required in West End, South Brisbane, and Highgate Hill within the next decade. While this development could alleviate some pressure, it remains to be seen whether it will significantly impact BSHS’s enrolment challenges.
Read: Prime West End Riverfront Site Sold for $50M
The Takeaway
West End’s real estate market is intrinsically linked to the reputation of Brisbane State High School. Families are making substantial financial commitments to secure their children’s education, and property values continue to reflect this demand.
However, as enrolment policies evolve and new educational institutions emerge, the landscape may shift. For now, one thing remains clear: BSHS’s influence on West End’s property market is undeniable.
Published 31-March-2025
