Australian Home Buyers Look to Indonesia for Affordability
Rising domestic housing costs drive more Australians to purchase property in Lombok as a lower-cost lifestyle alternative.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Residential
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Australian interest in residential properties in Lombok, Indonesia, has surged as domestic housing affordability pressures rise. Currently, Australians make up 50 percent of clients at Reef Property Lombok, a significant increase from just 15 percent two years ago.
Why it matters
Domestic housing stress is forcing many Australians to seek more affordable lifestyle options abroad. With many residents struggling to cover basic costs, the transition to remote work is enabling some to move internationally while maintaining Australian-based employment.
A report of 1,150 respondents shows 62 percent face housing stress, with 76 percent needing to sacrifice for a $20 weekly payment increase. Meanwhile, Australian clients at Reef Property Lombok have grown to 50 percent of the customer base.
The players
Reef Property Lombok
A real estate agency facilitating residential property sales and leasing for foreign buyers in Indonesia.
Indonesian Government
The national authority governing land rights and foreign property ownership regulations.
The details
Foreigners purchasing property in Lombok typically access rights through leasehold arrangements rather than freehold land, which is restricted to Indonesian citizens under Government Regulation No. 18 of 2021. Villas in Kuta range from $350,000 for two-bedroom units to $1.2 million for five-bedroom ocean-view properties. Remote work allows these buyers to maintain their Australian domestic employment while residing in Indonesia.
Timeline
The share of Australian customers at Reef Property was 15 percent in 2024.
The Everybody's Home report was released in October 2026.
Money Landscape
International property interest is currently navigating the intersection of remote-work flexibility and restrictive foreign land-ownership laws. This trend underscores a shift where domestic housing affordability pressures are increasingly driving cross-border real estate decisions.
If you are considering overseas real estate, you must evaluate the specific leasehold terms under local law as foreign citizens cannot hold freehold land. Before making any international commitment, consult with a qualified professional to understand the tax and legal implications for your personal budget.
The takeaway
The move toward international property is a direct response to rising domestic cost-of-living pressures and housing stress. If you are struggling with housing costs, track your budget against the 30 percent of income benchmark and speak with a qualified professional about your long-term planning.
Further reading
For broader trends on housing inventory and market shifts, see our Residential coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by News24.
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