Melbourne's inner-west industrial precinct — Truganina, Derrimut, Laverton, and Altona — is one of the tightest industrial markets in Australia. Vacancy is historically low. Rents are rising. And the Western Interstate Freight Terminal (WIFT) in Truganina will only strengthen the precinct's position as Melbourne's primary freight hub.
If you're looking for warehouse space to lease or an industrial investment to buy, here's what actually matters.
What to Look for in a Warehouse
Clear span means no columns inside the building. That means you can rack the full floor, run forklifts freely, and use every square metre productively. Always check the internal clearance height — anything below 8 metres limits how high you can rack.
Container-height roller doors need to be at least 4.5 metres high for standard shipping containers. Older buildings in Altona and Laverton sometimes fall short. Verify this before you commit.
Hardstand is sealed external yard area — critical for truck manoeuvring, container placement, and outdoor storage. Transport yards with B-double access are in high demand and rarely come to market.
Three-phase power is non-negotiable for most manufacturing, cold storage, and mechanical operations. Confirm the available amperage — not just that three-phase exists, but how many amps your operation actually needs.
Understanding Zoning
Most of Truganina and Derrimut sits in Industrial 1 Zone, which is suited to warehousing, logistics, and manufacturing. Some areas around Braybrook and Altona North are Industrial 3 Zone or Commercial 2 Zone, which allow a broader mix of uses including some retail and office.
Check the zone before you sign anything. Operating a use that the zone doesn't permit can mean a planning permit process of 3–6 months — or a refusal.
What & Where to Buy in 2026
When you buy commercial or industrial property in Victoria, you now pay stamp duty once only. After that, no further stamp duty applies on future sales. An annual tax (CIPT at 1% of unimproved land value) kicks in after 10 years.
For industrial property buyers, this reform significantly reduces the long-term transaction cost of holding and eventually selling.
→ Understand the full buying process: Investment Guide for Melbourne's West
→ Know what to negotiate on your lease: Commercial Leasing Guide