Why the Majority Chose to Lift Rates

In the end, most members supported a 25-basis-point rise, largely because inflation remained too high and demand continued to run above the economy’s capacity. The sharp increase in oil prices wasn’t viewed as just another temporary pinch at the pump—it was feeding into broader inflation expectations. Estimates showed that if oil stayed around US$100 per barrel, petrol alone could push inflation to about 5% by June, noticeably higher than February’s forecast. To the majority, lifting the cash rate now was a strategic step to stop these pressures from becoming entrenched.

They also noted that financial conditions, though tighter than before, weren’t as restrictive as anticipated, while the labour market remained slightly hotter than earlier projections suggested. Even if monetary policy couldn’t prevent an immediate increase in fuel costs, the board felt it could help limit knock-on effects into wages and long-term pricing.

Why Four Members Wanted to Hold

Not everyone agreed that tightening was the right call. Four members leaned toward keeping rates steady, placing greater weight on the risk of slowing the economy more than intended. With household spending coming in weaker than expected late last year, they were wary that consumer activity in the March quarter could soften further. For them, the uncertainty surrounding global developments—especially conflict-driven supply shocks—meant waiting for more information might lead to a more precise policy response.

Some economists echoed this view, noting that the minority simply preferred patience while navigating an unpredictable landscape.

What Major Banks Expect Next

Despite the debate, both sides agreed that more tightening was likely ahead. Analysts across the big banks reviewed the minutes and reached similar conclusions: the March increase is part of a broader path. ANZ highlighted that the next meeting begins with a “clean slate,” while NAB pointed out the board’s readiness to keep pushing back against inflation if oil-driven pressures persist. Westpac has even updated its forecasts, now expecting increases across May, June, and August, which could push the cash rate toward 4.85%.

What This Means for Borrowers

For homeowners and anyone keeping a close eye on their mortgage, the minutes are a reminder of how quickly economic pressures can shift. Global events can influence local interest rates in unexpected ways, and the RBA is working to balance the fight against inflation with the need to support economic stability. Regularly reviewing your loan remains one of the most practical steps to stay prepared in a fast-changing rate environment.

If you’re unsure how these cash rate changes could affect your repayments or want to explore whether your current loan is still competitive, contact us. Our team is here to help you understand your options and stay ahead of the market.

The post A Big Cash Rate Warning: The RBA Isn’t Done Yet first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Inflation Pressures Remain Persistent

Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows annual trimmed mean inflation rising to 3.4% in the 12 months to January 2026, a slight uptick from 3.3% in December. This increase signals that underlying price pressures are sticking around, and inflation still hasn’t returned to the RBA’s preferred 2–3% target range.

What’s Driving the Rate Increase?

During a recent address, RBA governor Michele Bullock outlined several key factors influencing the Board’s decision. She pointed to stronger-than-expected private demand, a still-tight labour market and a gradual rise in near-term inflation expectations over the past six months. With demand continuing to exceed the economy’s supply capacity, the Board determined that further tightening is needed to steer inflation back toward target within a reasonable timeframe.

What This Means for Borrowers

For borrowers, every rate change is a reminder of how quickly financial conditions can shift. Rising rates can influence monthly repayments, borrowing power and lending sentiment—but they also present an opportunity to reassess whether a current loan structure still aligns with long-term goals. Even in a tightening environment, options such as refinancing, rate reviews or exploring new product offerings can help strengthen a borrower’s position.

With the cash rate now sitting at 4.10%, it’s an ideal moment for homeowners and future buyers to revisit their strategy. Ensuring your loan continues to work in your favour can make all the difference during uncertain periods. If you’d like support reviewing your options or understanding how this change may affect you, contact us today—we’re here to provide personalised guidance and help you move forward with confidence.

The post Australia’s Cash Rate Jumps to 4.10%: What You Need to Know Right Now first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Experience and Convenience Remain Key Drivers

More respondents identified a broker’s market knowledge as a leading reason for seeking support, with growing numbers also highlighting how much easier and more efficient the lending process becomes when guided by a professional. While access to a variety of lenders is still important, borrowers are shifting their focus toward the quality of advice and the overall service experience.

Satisfaction and Trust Continue to Strengthen

The research shows that satisfaction with brokers remains exceptionally high, especially around communication and accessibility. Many borrowers felt that their broker acted in their best interests, and reported issues continued to decline. Trust also strengthened, particularly among those who had recently worked with a broker—reinforcing how positive interactions continue to shape industry confidence.

The Importance of Genuine Expertise

Although trust levels are strong, the study highlighted shifting borrower expectations. Concerns around communication, advice quality, and payment clarity have grown slightly, and many Australians are becoming more conscious of choosing a broker with genuine market experience. Despite these emerging pressure points, perceptions around mortgage brokers improved, with fewer borrowers feeling that their interests weren’t prioritised.

Loyalty Holds Strong Despite Rising DIY Options

Even as digital tools and direct-to-lender pathways gain traction, loyalty to brokers remains steady. Most respondents said they would use the same broker again, and referrals continue to be a major source of new clients. Women, in particular, were more likely to choose their broker based on a recommendation from friends or family. Meanwhile, increased interest in government initiatives such as Help to Buy is leading more borrowers to seek clear, personalised guidance.

If you’re planning to enter the market, refinance, or simply want clarity in a fast-changing environment, now is the perfect time to reach out. Contact us today and let our team guide you with the expertise, transparency, and personal support borrowers value most.

The post The Numbers Are In… and Brokers Are Leading the Way first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Why the RBA Made the Move

Throughout late 2025, inflation proved more stubborn than the central bank had hoped. Quarterly trimmed-mean inflation rose, headline inflation landed at 3.8 per cent, and unemployment stayed lower than expected. These indicators suggested that the economy was still running hotter than ideal, with private spending and capacity pressures putting additional strain on inflation targets.

With these factors in play, the RBA board unanimously agreed that policy needed to shift. Although some of the recent inflation rise was attributed to temporary drivers, decision-makers emphasised that they would not hesitate to act again if necessary.

Impact on Everyday Borrowers

For millions of Australians, the rate hike adds fresh pressure to already tight household budgets. Higher rates mean higher monthly repayments, pushing many home owners to rethink spending, postpone upgrades, or reassess their financial priorities. Even a modest 0.25 per cent rise can create noticeable changes — around $75–$80 more per month for every $500,000 borrowed.

Many lenders expect average variable rates for owner-occupiers to climb close to 5.77 per cent, making home loans starting with a “4” increasingly rare. Borrowers with larger loan balances may feel the impact even more, especially those juggling rising living costs.

What Industry Leaders Are Saying

Industry experts agree that borrowers shouldn’t panic, but they should get proactive. Leaders across the mortgage and finance sector highlight that strategic planning is now more important than ever. Brokers are encouraging clients to assess their preparedness for higher repayments, especially those holding pre-approvals, as borrowing power may be affected immediately.

Market confidence varies among major banks — some expect this to be a one-off rise, while others predict more increases to come. Either way, the shift has sparked renewed interest in refinancing, just as seen after the 2022 rate hike cycle.

Refinancing and Restructuring Opportunities

With more pressure on borrowing capacity and household budgets, many Australians are exploring ways to stay ahead. Refinancing, securing sharper rates, consolidating debt, or simply reviewing loan structures can make a noticeable difference. Even those entering the market through government schemes are being encouraged to reassess strategies, as higher rates can shrink the amount they qualify for.

Industry analysis already shows a rise in refinancing enquiries, and that trend is expected to grow as borrowers attempt to cushion the impact of higher repayments.

In times like this, mortgage brokers play a crucial role. The latest rate hike has created uncertainty, but it also provides an opportunity for borrowers to gain clarity with the right advice. Understanding options, testing different scenarios, and reviewing loan products can ease the pressure and restore confidence.

For anyone feeling unsure about what this cash rate change means for their home loan or borrowing power, now is the perfect time to get support. Contact us today to speak with a trusted mortgage broker who can guide you through your options, explore refinancing opportunities, and help you navigate the changing market with confidence. Reaching out early can make all the difference — especially before any potential future rate changes take effect.

The post Don’t Get Caught Out by the New Cash Rate Increase first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

It was a year marked by resilience, innovation, and adaptation — and borrowers continued to rely on brokers more than ever to navigate constant change. Here’s a look back at the stories that defined the industry in 2025.

New Government, New Housing Initiatives

Following Anthony Albanese’s landslide re-election in May, several major housing and small business policies took centre stage. The government expanded the 5 per cent Deposit Scheme, rolled out the Help to Buy program, and extended the $20,000 instant asset write-off. These updates helped strengthen borrowers confidence at a time when the market was still adjusting to higher living costs.

RBA Cuts Rates for the First Time Since 2020

One of the biggest shifts came in February, when the Reserve Bank delivered its first rate cut in four years, reducing the cash rate to 4.10 per cent. Two additional cuts followed in May and August, easing pressure on households and prompting many homeowners and borrowers to reassess their lending options.

Broker Market Share Hits Historic High

With confidence slowly returning, the broker channel reached record territory. Mortgage brokers were responsible for 77.6 per cent of new loans in the June quarter — the highest on record. Although the share dipped slightly later, the total value of broker-written loans set a new peak, highlighting the continued trust Australians place in broker expertise.

A Reminder of the Importance of Ethical Conduct

The industry also witnessed legal proceedings involving former director Joshua Fuoco, who was permanently banned from financial services and given a suspended sentence for targeting vulnerable clients. His case underscored the sector’s ongoing commitment to protecting consumers and upholding strong professional standards.

Tech Innovation Strengthens Broker Resources

A positive development came with LMG’s acquisition of The Brokers’ Bible, a digital tool used by brokers to access lender policies, scenarios, and AI-powered assistance. The platform will continue to operate independently, ensuring brokers across the industry can benefit from its resources.

Updates to HECS/HELP Assessment Rules

Student loan treatment was a major talking point in 2025 as the Treasurer directed regulators to modernise how HELP debt is assessed. Many welcomed the change, which aimed to make the mortgage process fairer for borrowers with student loans. Still, some questioned how it might affect long-term affordability and lender risk assessment.

NAB Winds Down Advantedge

One announcement that surprised many brokers was NAB’s decision to close its Advantedge brand. While new lending ceased from September, existing clients will transition to NAB-branded products in 2026 with no changes to pricing, fees, or commissions — and with improved digital banking features added during the migration.

ANZ–Suncorp Bank Integration Moves Forward

The long-awaited merger continued progressing, with ANZ confirming that Suncorp Bank will fully transition by June 2027. Leadership changes throughout the year signalled ongoing transformation within the enlarged organisation.

Aussie Becomes Lendi Group’s Lead Brand

Brand alignment was another major theme, with Lendi Group naming Aussie as its primary broking brand. Its Find.Buy.Own model — covering conveyancing, buyer’s agency, and partnerships — positioned Aussie as a more holistic solution for clients.

ASIC Signals Tougher Oversight

Regulation remained a key focus as ASIC reinforced that mortgage broking would be a top priority moving forward. With brokers now responsible for most home loans, the regulator emphasised stronger oversight of best interests duty compliance, complaints handling, and internal audits.

Leadership Shifts in the Broking Sector

Loan Market CEO David McQueen stepped down in October, with executive chairman Sam White stepping into the CEO role. The transition ensured business continuity while McQueen took time to explore new opportunities.

Brokers Face CSLR Levy Contribution

The federal government introduced a special $47.3 million Compensation Scheme of Last Resort levy for 2026. While the broking industry will only contribute 1.4 per cent, many groups argued that brokers were being asked to shoulder costs unrelated to their sector. The government has since signalled broader reform of the scheme.

Mutual Banks Join Forces

Consolidation in the mutual banking sector continued, with Qudos Bank and Bank Australia merging to form a group serving 300,000 customers and managing $18 billion in assets.

CBA Appoints New Third-Party Banking Leader

The Commonwealth Bank also made news with the appointment of Baber Zaka as general manager of third-party banking. His focus will centre on strengthening broker relationships and simplifying processes in the year ahead.

Looking Forward to 2026

Reflecting on 2025, it’s clear that the year brought meaningful change to Australia’s lending landscape. From policy updates and regulatory reforms to record broker activity and major industry transitions, brokers continued to play a crucial role in helping Australians navigate homeownership. As 2026 approaches, the industry remains committed to guiding clients through whatever comes next.

If you’re planning your next financial move in 2026 — whether it’s refinancing, purchasing, or simply reviewing your options — our team is here to help. Contact us anytime for support and tailored guidance.

The post A Big Year for Borrowers: The Moments That Shaped 2025 first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

How Rising Inflation Affects Interest Rates

For everyday Australians, this latest jump in inflation isn’t just a number on a chart — it directly influences the cost of living and, more importantly, the direction of interest rates. When inflation rises, it signals to the RBA that the economy might still be running hotter than ideal. As a result, rather than easing interest rates to give borrowers some breathing room, the central bank may decide to hold steady or even wait longer before making any cuts.

The Biggest Price Hikes Driving Inflation

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 3.2 per cent over the year to September, driven by higher housing, transport, and recreation costs. Electricity prices surged 9 per cent during the quarter, contributing heavily to overall price growth. Annual electricity costs have jumped a staggering 23.6 per cent as several state government rebates have come to an end. Property rates and council levies also saw their largest rise in over a decade, pushing household budgets even further.

What This Means for Homeowners

For homeowners, this means the cost of running a home — from energy to council rates — continues to climb. Even though rental inflation has eased slightly, the broader picture remains challenging for both property owners and those looking to buy. A higher inflation rate often delays relief on mortgage repayments, since rate cuts are less likely when the economy still shows strong price pressures.

Banks Adjust Their Forecasts

The big banks have already adjusted their outlooks in response. The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) noted that the unexpected strength in trimmed mean inflation makes a rate hold more likely for a “prolonged period.” Westpac and Bendigo Bank have also hinted at pushing back their forecasts for the next rate cut, with some now expecting any movement to come as late as February 2026.

What Borrowers Can Do Now

For borrowers, this means the current higher-rate environment could stick around a little longer than hoped. It’s another reminder of how closely inflation and interest rates are tied — and how shifts in one can ripple quickly through household budgets. While this may feel discouraging, it’s also a good opportunity for homeowners to review their current loan, explore refinancing options, or speak with their broker about strategies to stay ahead of rising costs.

Inflation may be rising, but with the right advice and a proactive approach, homeowners and borrowers can still navigate the challenges and keep their financial goals on track — no matter what direction the next RBA decision takes.

Get in touch with our team today. We’re here to help you explore your options and find the right solution for your financial goals.

The post The Plot Twist No One Wanted: Inflation Makes a Comeback first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

More Markets Join the Million-Dollar Club

The report found that as of September, 34.1% of all property markets across the country have a median value of at least $1 million — a record high, and a big jump from 30.3% just a year earlier.

What’s even more striking is how fast this shift has occurred. Over the past five years, the number of million-dollar suburbs has grown by 143%, as property values nationwide rose by almost 47% — that’s roughly $270,000 at the median level.

Once concentrated in Sydney’s prestigious Northern Beaches and Eastern Suburbs, seven-figure price tags are now becoming the norm in more diverse regions. Suburbs in Brisbane, Canberra, and even outer-metro areas like Penrith in Sydney and Taylors Lakes in Melbourne have now joined the list.

When “Prestige” Becomes the New Normal

What used to be an exclusive benchmark for high-end areas is now a reality for many average suburbs. Cotality’s economist, Kaytlin Ezzy, highlighted how house prices above $1 million are no longer limited to luxury postcodes — they’re now seen in outer regions where families traditionally sought affordability.

In Sydney, only 15% of suburbs have a median house value under $1 million, mainly in the city’s western and Central Coast areas. Meanwhile, Brisbane and Canberra have both seen their broader housing markets cross the seven-figure threshold for the first time.

Even some unit markets are catching up — 13.5% of unit suburbs nationwide now sit above $1 million.

Affordability Under Pressure

The rise in million-dollar suburbs is good news for homeowners who are seeing strong capital growth — but for new buyers, the story is quite different.

Cotality’s report revealed that a household earning the average income of $106,000 would need to spend more than half of their pre-tax income to service a loan on a $1 million home with a 20% deposit. For those relying on a 5% deposit under the First Home Guarantee scheme, that figure jumps above 60%.

This growing gap has made it harder for first-home buyers to enter the market. Many are needing larger deposits or parental assistance, and some are waiting longer to buy — resulting in the average age of first-home buyers continuing to climb.

What It Means for Homeowners and Buyers

For existing property owners, the rise in home values offers opportunities to leverage equity and expand investment portfolios. As prices climb, more homeowners are choosing to refinance or access equity for property investments, renovations, or debt consolidation.

However, brokers and financial professionals continue to stress the importance of education and planning. Understanding borrowing limits, structuring loans wisely, and staying realistic about property goals are key steps in navigating this competitive market.

With demand still high and supply remaining tight, experts predict that property values will keep rising into 2025. At the current rate of growth, more than 80 new suburbs are expected to join the million-dollar club by the end of the year.

While that may sound daunting for those still saving for a deposit, there are still pathways forward — especially with the right financial strategy and broker guidance.

As property prices continue to climb, expert guidance has never been more important. The team at QMP Financial helps clients explore the right loan options, understand their borrowing power, and create tailored strategies to make the most of current market conditions.

Whether it’s preparing to buy, refinance, or invest, QMP Financial ensures every client is supported with the right advice at every stage of their property journey.

Contact us today to discuss your options and find out how we can help you move confidently in today’s property market.

The post More Aussie Homes Are Hitting $1 Million — Here’s How to Keep Up first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Refinancing Is on the Rise

The latest Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) survey revealed that 99% of brokers helped clients refinance within the last six months. This is a clear sign that refinancing is no longer out of reach for many borrowers. Almost all clients who refinanced were also able to secure a discount, proving that better deals are on the table.

When you refinance, you can potentially reduce your repayments, unlock equity, or simply move to a loan that better suits your needs. With lenders becoming more flexible, now is a prime opportunity to consider refinancing.

Why More Borrowers Can Refinance Now

So, why is refinancing becoming more accessible? The biggest reason is the shift in economic conditions. Easing inflation and lower interest rates have opened the door for more borrowers to refinance.

At the same time, many homeowners are seeking help for the first time. In fact, 92% of brokers reported working with clients new to refinancing. This shows that more people are recognising the value of professional advice when it comes to navigating the refinance process.

Borrower Confidence Is Growing

Another positive trend is borrower confidence. Brokers observed that clients are starting to feel more optimistic about their finances now that refinance opportunities are available. While nearly half of clients remain “neutral,” more are showing a brighter outlook compared to earlier this year.

This shift highlights the impact of refinancing—by lowering repayments or securing better rates, households gain much-needed breathing room, which boosts financial confidence.

Brokers Are Helping Beyond Refinancing

While the chance to refinance has improved, challenges like cost-of-living pressures and job security concerns remain. That’s why 80% of brokers are now also supporting clients with hardship options.

Brokers aren’t just there to help you refinance; they’re also a trusted guide if financial stress arises. Whether you’re aiming to refinance to a more affordable loan or explore hardship support, having a broker makes the process easier.

Job Security and Housing Supply Concerns

Even though refinancing is now within reach for many, some borrowers remain cautious. Concerns about job security jumped from 4.8% earlier this year to 18.3%, while housing supply shortages continue to add pressure.

This means that while refinance opportunities are improving, broader issues like employment and housing availability still shape how confident borrowers feel about their future.

The key message is this: if you’ve been unable to refinance before, now may be the right time to take another look. With more lenders open to applications and brokers guiding clients through the refinance process, breaking free from mortgage prison is finally possible.

Contact us today to explore how we can help you refinance your home loan and secure a deal that works better for you.

The post Refinance and Break Free: How Borrowers Are Escaping Mortgage Prison first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

Investors on the rise

In July 2025, investor lending volumes grew by 6.1% year-on-year, compared with 5.6% for owner-occupiers. That may sound like a small margin, but it pushed investor loan books to a record $755 billion. Meanwhile, owner-occupier loans still dominate bank books at more than $1.60 trillion — showing that while investors are gaining traction, owner-occupiers continue to hold the majority share.

Interestingly, the gap between the two segments has widened quickly. In June, investor lending growth edged only 0.2 percentage points ahead of owner-occupiers. By July, the difference was far more significant, showing momentum is building.

Which banks are driving growth?

Not all lenders are moving at the same pace. Macquarie Bank has been the standout, adding $1.48 billion in investor loans in July alone, up 2.73% month-on-month. Its rapid growth in the investor segment has been particularly strong since May.

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), the country’s largest lender, recorded the second-biggest increase, adding $1.21 billion to reach $203.3 billion in investor loans — maintaining its spot as the biggest holder of investor mortgages.

Westpac and NAB each saw moderate growth, while ANZ was the only major bank to record a slight decline in investor volumes.

On the owner-occupier side, Macquarie again led the way, with a 1.91% jump, followed by ING Bank. The big four — CBA, NAB, Westpac, and ANZ — posted smaller gains, reflecting steadier demand from owner-occupiers.

ABS data backs the trend

APRA’s findings align with data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), which showed that the June 2025 quarter ended with a strong lift in new investor loan commitments.

• 49,065 investor loans were approved in the quarter, up 3.5% from the previous period.
• Total investor commitments hit $32.9 billion, nearly 7% higher than the same quarter in 2024.
• Average investor loan size rose to $674,259.

By comparison, owner-occupier loan approvals grew just 0.8% over the same quarter, showing investors are taking a more aggressive approach.

Why are investors more active?

Industry experts suggest that mindset plays a big role. Investors tend to look at property as a long-term wealth strategy, while many first home buyers and owner-occupiers see the market as harder to enter.

As one broker explained: “Someone on $100,000 may feel they can’t afford a home, yet the same person could buy two investment properties. Investors see the numbers differently.”

Younger buyers are also entering the investor market, driven by fear of missing out, while seasoned investors are expanding their portfolios. From first-time investors to experienced landlords, the activity spans across all levels.

What does this mean for borrowers?

The surge in investor lending shows that despite market challenges, property remains a highly attractive asset. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home or build an investment portfolio, understanding how lenders view the market — and how you can position yourself — is key.

Working with a mortgage broker can help you:

• Compare investor vs. owner-occupier loan options.
• Understand which lenders are most active in each space.
• Structure your finance to suit your long-term goals.

Investor lending is climbing at a record pace, but opportunities exist for both investors and owner-occupiers. With the right strategy and support, you can take advantage of today’s market shifts to make confident property decisions.

Ready to make your next property move? Contact us today to explore your options.

The post Investor Lending on the Rise: A Market Shift to Watch first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.

For years, first home buyers faced hurdles like strict income caps, limited scheme places, and property price ceilings that didn’t reflect today’s rising housing costs. The new changes aim to remove these barriers and make home ownership more achievable, even in a competitive property market.

What’s Changing?

Here’s a breakdown of the updates that will roll out from 1 October 2025:

• Unlimited places – No more limits on the number of guarantees. Any eligible first home buyer with a 5% deposit can apply.
• No income caps – Higher-income earners are now included, meaning more buyers can access the scheme.
• Higher property price caps – Adjustments have been made to reflect current market conditions, especially in capital cities and regional hubs.
• Simplified access in regional areas – The Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee will merge into the broader First Home Guarantee, streamlining the process.

These changes mean that buyers can secure a home with as little as a 5% deposit while avoiding LMI, a significant saving that can help them get into their first property sooner.

Property Price Caps Rising

Property price limits will also increase significantly in many areas, bringing them closer in line with market values. For example:

• NSW capital cities and regional centres: from $900,000 to $1.5 million
• QLD capital city and regional centres: from $700,000 to $1 million
• VIC capital city and regional centres: from $800,000 to $950,000

These adjustments provide greater flexibility for buyers in markets where housing prices have surged.

What This Means for Buyers

The expansion of the Home Guarantee Scheme could be a game-changer. With unlimited places and no income restrictions, the scheme opens the door for a wider range of Australians to step onto the property ladder.

Instead of competing for limited scheme slots, buyers can now plan their property journey with more confidence. Regional buyers also benefit from a more streamlined approach, ensuring fairer access across the country.

Getting Started

From 1 October 2025, buyers can:

1. Review their eligibility using the updated online tool.
2. Check new property price caps for their area.
3. Apply through a participating lender.

The updates to the Home Guarantee Scheme aim to give first home buyers a fairer shot at home ownership, even in today’s high-priced market. By removing restrictions and expanding access, the scheme supports more Australians in turning the dream of owning a home into reality.

Thinking about buying your first home? Now could be the time to prepare. Contact us today to explore your options and take advantage of these upcoming changes.

To find out more about the Scheme, and view our Frequently Asked Questions, visit the Housing Australia website here.

The Housing Australia Investment Mandate Amendment to effect these changes can be found here.

Note: These changes are not effective until 1 October 2025. The Home Guarantee Scheme is still available for borrowers to access today with the current eligibility criteria and price caps.

To read the Australian Government announcement, click here. 

The post Unlocking Doors: Big News for First Home Buyers first appeared on Mortgage Brokers Brisbane Gold Coast.