Every RBA cash rate announcement flows through to variable rates, fixed-rate pricing, serviceability and borrowing power — but not always the way the headlines suggest. JB Fremy explains the mechanics, and what's actually worth reviewing after each decision.
On 3 February 2026, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increased the cash rate target by 0.25{477fb71c01144b26ec6eb422099df48469b3b21edef8af379794774af2ca9d1d} to 3.85{477fb71c01144b26ec6eb422099df48469b3b21edef8af379794774af2ca9d1d}. In plain terms, the cost of money has risen again, and many lenders are already passing that increase through to variable business lending products.
From home loans to asset finance, discover six ways a licensed broker can save you time, money and paperwork versus going direct to a lender.
Australia still permits foreign investment in residential property, but the rules tightened materially from 1 April 2025. The headline change is a temporary ban on purchases of established (existing) dwellings by foreign persons running to 31 March 2027.
For homeowners and buyers considering properties with known flood exposure, especially across South-East Queensland. A plain-English guide to what lenders usually assess, what conditions they tend to require, and how to position your application for success. This article is general information only and does not reference or represent any lender's specific policy.
From 1 October 2025, the Federal first-home buyer settings changed materially: unlimited places under the government guarantee, no income caps, and higher property price caps across most regions. Eligible first-home buyers can purchase with a 5{477fb71c01144b26ec6eb422099df48469b3b21edef8af379794774af2ca9d1d} deposit and avoid lenders' mortgage insurance (LMI) because the government guarantees up to 15{477fb71c01144b26ec6eb422099df48469b3b21edef8af379794774af2ca9d1d} of the loan through participating lenders.
Avoid cashback gimmicks, serviceability traps and exit‑fee shocks with this 10‑minute refinancing checklist tailored for Australian borrowers in 2025.
See your real spending patterns with budget apps like Frollo, PocketSmith & WeMoney, helping you plan smarter and make better financial choices.
2025 update: 50,000 new Home Guarantee Scheme places, QLD stamp duty changes, and the national Help to Buy roll‑out. See what's best for your first home.
Why Modular Construction Has Been Hard to Finance Modular homes are built off-site in a factory and transported for assembly on a prepared foundation. Until they are affixed to land, the structure doesn’t serve as standard collateral, making it difficult for lenders to offer traditional mortgages. Historically, buyers were often required to pay up to […]