Docklands is one of Melbourne’s most modern and vibrant waterfront precincts, offering a unique blend of city convenience and harbourside living. Just minutes from the CBD, this contemporary suburb has transformed from an industrial port into a dynamic residential and lifestyle destination. With its striking apartment towers, luxury waterfront homes, and world-class amenities, Docklands appeals to professionals, downsizers, investors, and families alike.
At Haitch Conveyancing, we understand that purchasing property in Docklands is about more than just securing a home – it’s about embracing a lifestyle defined by waterfront living, modern architecture, and unmatched proximity to the heart of Melbourne. From sleek city apartments with harbour views to high-performing investment opportunities in this ever-evolving precinct, our role is to guide you through every step with confidence and ease. With specialist knowledge of Melbourne City Council’s planning controls, design overlays, and the Docklands property landscape, we simplify the complex and give you the assurance to make decisions that align with your goals.
Comprehensive conveyancing for all residential property matters across Melbourne and Victoria.
Fixed-fee conveyancing for houses, apartments, and townhouses. We review contracts, conduct searches, and protect your interests from offer to settlement.
From Section 32 to settlement, we prepare compliant documentation, manage negotiations, and ensure a smooth, on‑time sale.
Seamless property transfers between family members, partners, and trusts. Stamp duty and title transfer services included.
Off‑the‑plan, subdivisions, related‑party sales, and complex matters handled with precision and clear communication.
One clear fee, no hidden extras — know exactly what you’ll pay from day one.
Handled by an experienced team working alongside property lawyers for added legal protection.
Fast responses and regular updates so you’re always in the loop.
Covered by the LPLC’s professional indemnity insurance — the same comprehensive cover used by Victorian law firms.
Navigate local property complexities with confidence
Parking can be limited in Docklands. Many developments fall under a Parking Overlay that restricts the number of car spaces that can be provided. Buyers should check: if their property includes a car park, whether visitor parking is available and if there are any restrictions on additional or off-site parking.
Docklands is a vibrant mixed-use precinct. Properties near Marvel Stadium, The District Docklands, or active waterfront areas may experience higher noise levels during events. Buyers should visit at different times of day to get a feel for the atmosphere.
Docklands is built on reclaimed wharf land and sits at low elevation near the Yarra River and Victoria Harbour. While engineered with flood controls, certain parts may have overlays or flood-related considerations. Buyers should confirm via a Planning Property Report whether the site is subject to an inundation or special building overlay.
Some Melbourne apartment buildings, including in Docklands, have been subject to checks for combustible cladding or building defects. Buyers should ask for an owners corporation report to see if any rectification works or levies are planned.
Median house price $1.5 million. There are very few houses on the market, which pushes up the price of these properties.
Median unit price $601,000. The Docklands apartment market is characterised by a wide range of contemporary high-rise options, from affordable one-bedroom units to luxury penthouses, attracting both owner-occupiers and investors seeking strong rental demand and city convenience.
Getting Around
Docklands sits entirely within Melbourne’s Free Tram Zone, serviced by five tram lines. Southern Cross Station is an easy walk with access to all train lines. Several major roads including CityLink.
Docklands offers a vibrant waterfront lifestyle with modern apartments, scenic promenades, and a buzzing mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment. Residents enjoy easy access to Marvel Stadium, The District Docklands, and year-round community events, all just minutes from Melbourne’s CBD. With free trams, Southern Cross Station nearby, and everyday conveniences at your doorstep, Docklands combines city living with a relaxed harbourside atmosphere.Â
Docklands is managed by the City of Melbourne, which is the local council responsible for the area. The City of Melbourne Council plays a central role in shaping Docklands’ growth, maintaining its public spaces, and ensuring it remains a lively, connected, and well-serviced suburb.
Docklands’ property market is heavily shaped by modern, high-density living, with most buildings offering shared amenities such as gyms, pools, and communal lounges. Many developments also operate under owners’ corporations, so buyers should review associated fees, bylaws, and any planned maintenance works.
We clarify your goals, timelines, and any risks so you know exactly what to expect.
We review all documents, run required checks, and negotiate amendments where needed.
Stay updated at every milestone with clear communication from our Melbourne team.
We coordinate with all parties to complete settlement on time and without stress.
We work on a fixed professional fee structure (not hourly). Your quote includes contract review, settlement coordination and standard searches. On top of the professional fee there are disbursements (government/council/title searches, water/rates, planning checks) that we pay on your behalf and itemise upfront. If anything outside the standard scope is needed (e.g., extra negotiations, urgent settlement changes, additional certificates), we’ll confirm costs first, no surprises.
Pre-purchase contract & Section 32 review (for buyers) or Section 32 preparation (for sellers)
Title, plan and council/rates searches, water authority enquiries, planning/overlay checks
Owners corporation certificate order/review where applicable (apartments/townhouses)
Stamp duty & concession guidance, settlement figures and adjustments
Liaison with your agent, lender and the other side’s conveyancer/solicitor
Digital settlement coordination (PEXA) and post-settlement confirmation
Plain-English updates at each milestone
Yes. Send us the Contract of Sale and Section 32 before you sign. We’ll flag risks, explain the fine print in plain English, and advise on amendments or special conditions (e.g., finance/building clauses, settlement date changes) so you can proceed with confidence.
Most contracts settle in 30, 60 or 90 days. Timing depends on what’s agreed in the contract, your finance approval, and any special conditions (e.g., building/pest). We drive the process, keep everyone aligned, and let you know if anything could affect your settlement date.
Rental demand is very strong, driven by proximity to the CBD, universities, and lifestyle amenities, with median rents around $600 per week for units.
As most Docklands properties are in modern complexes with shared facilities, owners corporation fees are common. On average, these fees range from $3,000–$6,000 per year depending on the building and amenities offered (e.g., concierge, pool, gym, lifts). Buyers find the fees worthwhile as they cover security, maintenance, and lifestyle facilities.
Docklands continues to evolve with new residential towers, commercial office spaces, and public realm improvements. Projects such as parkland expansions, waterfront upgrades, and better pedestrian connections to the CBD are in progress, all of which add long-term value for residents and investors.
Yes, Docklands appeals strongly to both investors and owner-occupiers. With its proximity to Melbourne’s CBD, high rental demand from professionals, and ongoing development in the precinct, the area offers strong rental yields and long-term growth potential.
Speak with our Docklands conveyancing team today for a fast, fixed‑fee quote.