Myth Buster Series: DHA opens new doors for property investors

Oct 7, 2025, 18:19 by Defence Housing Australia


DHA’s leasing program is constantly evolving to deliver the best results for our landlords and the Defence members living in our homes. Our Myth Buster Series aims to clarify any potential myths you may have heard about investing with DHA and provide accurate information.

 

Myth: You can no longer buy a property with a DHA lease.

Fact: There are several pathways to invest with DHA, including buying brand new properties with a DHA lease commitment.

DHA has transformed its business model creating new investment options that give both property owners and Defence families the security of a DHA lease with a much bigger selection of properties and locations to choose from. 

Today, both investors and Defence families want freedom and flexibility in the homes they choose, and our new investment pathways make that easy. 

DHA manages more than 17,000 houses, townhouses and apartments in every capital city and major regional centre within 30 kilometres of a serviced Australian Defence Force base.

There are three main avenues available to investors who want to secure a long-term lease with us: 

  1. Lease us your existing investment property.
    We are always on the lookout for properties in convenient locations that will appeal to Defence members. If your property is close to a serviced Defence base, and meets our requirements, it may be eligible. 

  2. Buy a property that is already under lease.
    As a buyer, our transferable leases mean you step straight into a secure income stream, while Defence members continue to enjoy secure housing. Search for sale listings on your favourite real estate websites and make sure to include the keyword "DHA" in the filters. 

  3. Build or buy a new home with a pre-approved lease.
    This is an exciting option where DHA commits to leasing a property before it is even built. You can choose the plans you like from the builder you prefer. As long as the property is built to the agreed specifications, we can commit to leasing the property as soon as it is finished.

    You can even choose ‘pre-approved’ house and land packages available directly from participating builders or agents around Australia—with these listed on our website.


There are several pathways to invest with DHA

These options all offer advantages that make DHA one of the most secure and convenient property investments in the country with benefits other options simply can’t match, including long-term leases (up to 12 years plus extensions), guaranteed1 rental income, a secure government tenant, and unrivalled property care services2.  

Our contemporary investment options provide fresh opportunities for investors looking for real security and peace of mind in today’s housing market.


Ready to invest? If you'd like to speak to our Investor Support team to learn more about investing with DHA, please call 133 342 or submit an application.

1. Rent may be subject to abatement under certain circumstances such as loss of enjoyment or amenity, or breach of lease terms. Rent is paid where the property is habitable. Should a property become uninhabitable during the term of the lease, or lessor breaches the lease terms, the rent may cease or abate and the lease may be terminated by DHA. Guaranteed rent is subject to the terms of the lease. DHA does not take into account an investor’s objectives or financial needs. Investors should always seek appropriate independent advice before making any investment decisions with DHA. 

2. A comprehensive description of repairs included in our service and exclusions can be found in the Property Care Contract. For more information, please visit https://www.dha.gov.au/investing/property-care.