Surviving the 2026 Budget: Negative Gearing, CGT Changes, and Your Property Strategy

In this pivotal second episode of Pivot to Profit, Henry Single and Damian Healey break down the massive shifts following the 2026 Australian Budget. From the removal of negative gearing benefits to new capital gains tax (CGT) concessions, the landscape for property investors has changed overnight.23 The hosts dive deep into how these policies affect borrowing capacity, why the sub-$1 million market remains a powerhouse, and why "time in the market" still beats "timing the market." Whether you are a novice or an experienced investor, this conversation offers a logical roadmap through the noise of fear-inducing headlines.45 In this episode, we discuss: The 2026 Budget Impact: Analyzing the immediate 20–30% reduction in borrowing capacity for some investors due to the removal of negative gearing from serviceability calculations. Strategy Recalibration: Why a lower borrowing limit doesn’t mean exiting the market—it means adjusting your target from $1.5M to $1.2M or $1M to $800k. Market Resilience: Historical data showing that Australian property downturns since 1980 average only 14 months with a 9% price dip. The "New Build" Loophole: Understanding how the government's push for new housing supply—and the "significant renovation" clause—could benefit savvy developers. Corporate vs. Personal Names: Why the 2026 changes make purchasing through a company more attractive than ever to preserve borrowing capacity. The Supply Problem: Why rising immigration and missed home-building targets suggest that underlying fundamentals will keep prices marching upward. Key Takeaways: Don't let policy changes out of your control dictate your long-term wealth goals. Negative gearing is a "nice-to-have," but cash-flow-neutral to positive properties in high-growth areas remain the core strategy. Seek professional advice from brokers, accountants, and buyer's agents to navigate new legislative structures. Subscribe for more insights into the Australian property market and upcoming interviews with industry experts!