The ‘critical’ data that could greenlight next rate cut
Economists await key quarterly data that could put the odds firmly in favour of an August interest rate cut, as the Reserve Bank sheds light on its shock hold.
mortgages
‘Get on with it’: next move key with rate cut baked in
With markets all but assured the Reserve Bank board will cut interest rates at its upcoming meeting, the bigger question for traders is what they say next.
Rates hold call cuts deep but bank governor offers hope
The central bank has defied expectations of an interest rate cut as it keeps its sights on inflation and jobs figures, but relief might not be far away.
Economy stalls as private sector fails to pick up slack
More rate cuts might be needed to boost Australia's fragile economy with soft household consumption figures contributing to stalled growth.
Regional house price growth outstrips capital cities
Two regional centres either side of a state capital recorded the highest dwelling value increases so far in 2025, as capital cities reverse a decline.
Search for signs of Trump trade slowdown as RBA meets
Uncertainty, both known and unknown, surrounding Donald Trump's tariffs and their economic impact could spur the Reserve Bank to cut interest rates on Tuesday.
Money still on rate cut despite surprise spike in wages
Workers have enjoyed their sixth consecutive quarter of pay packet growth as all eyes turn to the Reserve Bank's upcoming decision on interest rates.
Mortgage relief could be limited as jobs market expands
An unexpected jump in employment has led the money market to pare back its hopes for further mortgage relief after a widely expected rate cut next week.
Full steam ahead for cash rate cut as inflation settles
Mortgage-holders are poised to bank an interest rate cut within weeks despite the latest inflation reading coming in slightly higher than expected.
Bank boss alert, not alarmed over Trump tariff fallout
As rate-cut bets see-saw, the Reserve Bank governor says Australia is well placed for overseas shocks in her first speech since Donald Trump's tariff thump.
Treasurer joins chorus in hosing down rate cut hopes
"Almost nobody" is expecting an interest cut, the treasurer says as the Reserve Bank's new rate-setting board meets with an election campaign in full swing.
Sliding inflation builds hopes of interest rate cut
Another interest rate cut is firmly on the table with analysts expecting the Reserve Bank to seriously consider the move on the back of fresh inflation data.
Super housing scheme could shave years off home wait
Australians raiding their super balances for housing could boost home ownership but may result in a jump in prices, economists say.
‘Short window’ as property prices rebound on rate cut
Two capital cities are leading the housing market higher as buyers look to get ahead of a wave of demand as interest rates finally fall.
Dutton prays for rate cut as RBA enters conclave
Economists say a major reduction in mortgage rates this year is unlikely, even though the Reserve Bank board is widely tipped to deliver a cut on Tuesday.
PM denies rate cut will impact election timing
Anthony Albanese remains coy on when Australians will head to the polls, after the Reserve Bank delivered cost-of-living relief for mortgage holders.
‘No-brainer’ home ownership boost for HECS debt Aussies
Australians saddled with student debt who want to enter the housing market will be given a helping hand, under changes to lending requirements.
Big bank clips rates as RBA mulls next move
Strong retail spending figures are not expected to deter the Reserve Bank from cutting rates at its next meeting as one big bank lowers fixed-rate loans.
Experts put money on early rate cut as spending slides
A decline in spending on household goods has bolstered hopes of an RBA rate cut, which would help boost dour consumer sentiment.
Bank of mum and dad could run dry for retirement
Affordability constraints have many turning to the bank of mum and dad but parents have been urged to consider their finances carefully before lending.
The women who could soon influence your mortgage
Two new faces will serve on the Reserve Bank of Australia's rate-setting board, with the government defying calls from the coalition for continuity.
Worst housing affordability in almost three decades
Homeowners and renters face some of the most challenging conditions in years, with both groups spending a growing proportion of income on a place to live.
Rates stay on hold and hope for February cut revived
Long-awaited mortgage relief looks closer as the central bank takes another interest rate hike off the table and lays the groundwork for future cuts.
Banks at odds over easing lending restrictions
Easing lending requirements so more first homebuyers can get a mortgage has received mixed reviews, with warnings more borrowers would face crippling debt.
China stimulus a ‘very good development for Australia’
After iron ore prices plunged by more than a third since the start of the year, Chinese stimulus measures spell good news for the Australian budget.
Gloomy growth, interest rates sore points for Treasurer
The economy is stuck in the slow lane and Treasurer Jim Chalmers says that's by design, with higher interest rates necessary to tame inflation.
Economy ‘nowhere near recessionary’ despite predictions
Australia's economic forecasts might not be as positive as hoped but there are still signs of strength in the economy, an expert says.
‘Painful squeeze’: inflation spike renews heat on rates
Surprisingly strong inflation has resurrected the possibility of another interest rate hike in an unsettling development for squeezed borrowers.
Households keep falling behind as rate increases bite
Most borrowers are adapting to tough financial conditions but the number of people in hardship or struggling to meet repayments is growing.
RBA gift wraps end-of-year rate relief for borrowers
Borrowers have been spared more cash rate pain at the final Reserve Bank of Australia policy meeting of the year.
Banks pass on rate hikes to thrifty home loan customers
Some mortgage holders are already trimming their spending and working extra hours, with the latest rise to put more pressure on households and the economy.