Retail Space for Lease in Perth: High-Traffic Suburbs to Watch 2026

With 2025 drawing to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the shifts in Perth’s retail landscape and consider what lies ahead in 2026. Far from slowing down, Perth’s momentum continues to build, fuelled by strong population increase, the city’s ongoing expansion and a growing interest from investors. Already recognised as one of the most geographically spread cities in the world, Perth is stretching even further, with new suburbs and lifestyle hubs emerging across the metropolitan area.

For retailers, this brings fresh opportunities to establish a presence in high-growth catchments. With investor appetite on the rise, capital is flowing into neighbourhood centres and suburban retail precincts. In fact, retail sales across Greater Perth recorded a 23.6% uplift in the past year (source: REIWA), underscoring the strength of consumer demand.

Taken together, these dynamics point to another year of opportunity in 2026, as retailers and investors alike position themselves in Perth’s most promising, high-traffic suburbs.

North-East Corridor: Ellenbrook – Noranda – Morley

The completion of the Ellenbrook–Morley METRONET line has reshaped Perth’s north-east corridor into one of the city’s most exciting retail growth zones. Ellenbrook has emerged as a focal point for new housing estates and community infrastructure, while Morley continues to attract investment as one of Perth’s most significant suburban centres. Between them, Noranda serves as a vital bridge, drawing on both its established resident base and the momentum flowing from neighbouring suburbs.

At the heart of this catchment, Hawaiian’s Noranda has long been a trusted community hub. As new families move into the area and higher-density housing takes shape, the centre is well positioned to capture growing demand. Hawaiian’s flexible leasing approach — from short-term activations to long-term tenancies — provides retailers with the opportunity to test the market and expand alongside the community. In 2026, the north-east corridor is set to remain one of Perth’s most attractive destinations for retailers seeking high-traffic opportunities

The Northern Hub

Perth’s northern corridor has grown into one of the city’s most dynamic regions, with Joondalup leading as a key sub-regional centre. In recent years, Joondalup has drawn a diverse demographic mix — from families to retirees and students — thanks to its unique combination of education, health services, transport connections, and recreational amenities. This balance of convenience and lifestyle has fuelled steady retail demand, creating space for both essential services and lifestyle-oriented operators.

Further south, Hawaiian’s Duncraig precinct mirrors this growth story. The centre has seen a surge in foot traffic, bolstered by the arrival of new retailers such as Rocky Ridge Brewing Co. and Loops Pilates, which have added vibrancy and strengthened its role as a community meeting place. By enhancing the mix of food, beverage, and wellness options, Hawaiian’s Duncraig has become a destination where locals do more than shop — they connect and spend time.

Together, Joondalup and Hawaiian’s Duncraig illustrate how the northern corridor is evolving into a vibrant retail hub. With its combination of established catchments, lifestyle-driven demand, and new community amenities, the north will remain a key focus for retailers looking to secure high-traffic leasing opportunities in 2026 and beyond

Bassendean – Midland – Darling Ridge

The eastern suburbs are shaping up as one of the most promising corridors for retail leasing in Perth heading into 2026. 

Population growth, new housing estates, and improved infrastructure are steadily lifting foot traffic and creating demand for a broader retail mix. Hawaiian’s presence at Bassendean and Darling Ridge has already anchored these communities, but the pace of growth is driving calls for renewed offers, expanded services, and fresh products to meet evolving needs. 

Between Bassendean and Darling Ridge, the Midland suburb is also expected to benefit from rising momentum. With property ownership relatively attainable and infrastructure investment on the rise, Midland presents retailers with the opportunity to establish a foothold now in a market that is only set to grow stronger.

Perth CBD

The Perth CBD remains the beating heart of the city’s retail, dining, and cultural life. From flagship fashion stores along Murray and Hay Street malls to buzzing laneway bars and major entertainment venues, the city centre continues to evolve and attract diverse audiences. A steady influx of office workers, students, tourists, and new city residents keeps foot traffic strong, making the CBD one of the most attractive locations for retailers looking to establish themselves in 2026.

Within this dynamic environment, Hawaiian provides prime opportunities through its landmark properties at Parmelia House and 235 St George’s Terrace. These buildings not only serve as sought-after headquarters for leading businesses but also foster vibrant ecosystems where retail thrives. With amenities ranging from on-site cafés to premium end-of-trip facilities, Hawaiian’s CBD buildings are more than workplaces — they are lively hubs where companies and retailers alike can leverage the energy of city life. For businesses ready to align with Perth’s most active retail and commercial precinct, Hawaiian offers an unparalleled platform in the CBD.

South Perth

South Perth is emerging as one of Perth’s most dynamic inner suburbs, where riverside living, new apartment developments, and proximity to the CBD are fuelling both population growth and retail demand. With this trend set to continue in 2026, South Perth will become an even more attractive destination for retailers with clear opportunities to secure space and contribute to the suburb’s ongoing expansion and community growth. 

Similar to South Perth, the nearby suburb of Victoria Park has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years. With its prime location just minutes from the river and the CBD, coupled with a rapidly expanding food and beverage scene, Victoria Park has established itself as one of Perth’s most sought-after lifestyle destinations. Hawaiian’s Park Centre precinct has been at the heart of this transformation, adapting to the suburb’s evolving visitation patterns and community needs.

Its eclectic dining strip, diverse mix of independent retailers, and steady rise in foot traffic have cemented Victoria Park as one of Perth’s most high-traffic urban villages. Through its centres, Hawaiian has anchored this growth by providing spaces where convenience, community, and culture come together.

Perth Outskirts: Retail space for lease opportunities

With major rail projects such as the Yanchep Rail Extension, the Thornlie–Cockburn Link, and the Armadale Line and Byford Rail Extension, Perth’s outer suburbs are becoming more accessible than ever before. As convenience improves, population growth is expected to follow, bringing with it the need for new retail spaces that support the lifestyle of expanding communities in these areas.

Among the suburbs to watch, Rockingham, Armadale, and Cockburn stand out as high-potential growth markets. Rockingham, with its coastal lifestyle and strong tourism appeal, is fast becoming a southern hub that blends leisure with everyday convenience.

Armadale, once overlooked, is now benefiting from its role as a transport terminus and from significant housing growth, creating demand for essential services and everyday retail. 

Meanwhile, Cockburn’s strong population base and the Thornlie–Cockburn rail connection are setting the stage for even greater retail activity, with opportunities emerging for operators who want to establish themselves early in this market.

By 2026, these areas are expected to attract not only new residents but also higher levels of visitor foot traffic, creating valuable opportunities for retailers to secure long-term growth in thriving, community-focused environments

Prime Retail Spaces Available: Leasing Opportunities with Hawaiian

For more than 25 years, Hawaiian has helped shape Perth’s communities through its network of neighbourhood shopping centres. From Melville to Hillarys, Noranda to Darling Ridge, our centres are local hubs where people connect, shop, and build daily routines.

As Perth continues to grow outward, Hawaiian’s centres will remain at the heart of their communities, adapting to changing needs and supporting the growth of local businesses. We are always looking for passionate retailers to join our precincts and become part of this story. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, a fashion boutique, a speciality grocer, or a wellness studio, Hawaiian offers flexible leasing opportunities designed to help you thrive.

Enquire with our team today to discover the opportunities waiting for you across Hawaiian’s Perth network.