Yes, not the greatest place to be and i have never ventured out that way but for 500k or so there are plenty of options for young people closer to town.
It seems to me that many people in their 20's 30's would like a home within 10km of the CBD in a sought after area on one average income with a couple of kids, a prestige 4WD an active social life and bi-annual holidays. As Darryl Kerrigan said: Tell him he's dreaming. Will not happen even if your much anticipated slowdown or crash eventuates.
I hear people complain about car prices all the time and comparing with US, we might be overpaying a tad here in Oz but there is no shortage of prestige vehicles on the road. If you would like to pay half the price for a BMW, move over to the US and be my guest just don't forget to pack a bullet proof vest and pay for healthcare with the cash you save on a house and car.
I have no interest in spruiking property and would not recommend people over extending themselves to invest in property. There are many reasons for investing in property but first and foremost people want their own home and to provide stability for family but people must buy within their means. A surgeon for example can and will buy a more expensive house,car private education etc. An unskilled worker will have limited options, this is how society works
