The Ripley Valley, about 5 km south-east of the Ipswich CBD, is in one of the largest urban growth areas in Australia. Economic Development Queensland plans for it to grow into around 48,750 homes for 131,000 people. For buyers, that means a steady supply of new house and land in suburbs like Ripley and South Ripley, close to Ipswich and the Cunningham Highway.
Here's an overview of the area and what to think about before you buy.
Where the Ripley Valley is
The valley sits south of the Cunningham Highway, on the south-eastern side of Ipswich. Suburbs in and around the valley include Ripley, South Ripley, Deebing Heights and White Rock. The Ipswich CBD is about 5 km away.
A Priority Development Area
The Ripley Valley was declared a Priority Development Area (PDA) on 8 October 2010. Like Yarrabilba in Logan, it's planned by Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) under its own development scheme, which commenced in October 2011. Ipswich City Council works with EDQ on development in the area. The PDA covers about 4,664 hectares.
| Planned capacity | EDQ figure |
|---|---|
| Homes | About 48,750 |
| Residents | About 131,000 |
| Area | About 4,664 ha |
That's a long-term plan. The valley is being built in stages, and EDQ has been working through infrastructure agreements to open up more land for homes.
Schools
Ripley Valley State Secondary College opened in South Ripley in 2020, starting with its first Year 7 and 8 students. It now teaches Years 7 to 12 and has grown quickly with the area. More state schools are planned as the population grows. Check catchments for any specific address with the Department of Education.
What buying in the Ripley Valley looks like
- Mostly new homes. Expect house and land packages and new townhouses rather than established homes. Read how house and land packages work if you're new to buying this way.
- Price caps for first home buyers. Check the 5% Deposit Scheme price cap for your suburb, and whether a home is under $750,000 for the First Home Owner Grant.
- The stage and the street. Ask where your lot sits in the estate plan: next to planned parks, schools and shops, or on the edge of land still to be developed.
- For investors. New supply keeps arriving in a growth area. Get an independent rental appraisal and compare similar new homes nearby.
Homes for sale in and around Ripley
We list new homes across Ripley, South Ripley, Deebing Heights, White Rock and Walloon, from house and land packages to townhouses and dual-key homes. See them all on the Ipswich and Brisbane West page, or compare with Yarrabilba, the planned town in Logan.
Common questions
Where is the Ripley Valley?
South of the Cunningham Highway, about 5 km south-east of the Ipswich CBD. Suburbs in and around it include Ripley, South Ripley, Deebing Heights and White Rock.
How many homes are planned in the Ripley Valley?
Economic Development Queensland says the Ripley Valley Priority Development Area could develop into 48,750 homes for 131,000 people.
Is there a high school in Ripley?
Yes. Ripley Valley State Secondary College opened in South Ripley in 2020 and teaches Years 7 to 12.
This article is general information only, current at 30/10/2026. It isn't financial, tax or legal advice. Rules and amounts change, so check the official sources below and speak to a licensed professional about your situation.
