The latest ANZ CoreLogic Housing Affordability Report for November has revealed a "triple whammy" effect on prospective home buyers in Australia.
Affordability has worsened for not only buyers but also mortgage holders and renters, and unfortunately, the situation is predicted to deteriorate further by 2024.
Rents on the Rise
One of the key challenges faced by prospective home buyers is the significant rise in rents. This surge in rental costs makes it increasingly difficult to save up enough money for a deposit on a property. In fact, according to CoreLogic, it currently takes the average household around 10 years to save up a 20% deposit on the median priced Australian home.
Home Values Pushing the Dream Further Away
The rising trend in home values is another obstacle preventing many Australians from achieving home ownership. As these values continue to soar, the prospect of owning a home becomes even more distant for the average buyer.
Mortgage Rates on the Rise
Finally, the ongoing increase in mortgage rates exacerbates the challenges faced by home buyers. Higher interest rates make it more difficult for buyers to secure a mortgage on affordable terms.
The gap between what the median buyer can afford and the actual median price is currently at its widest level in over 20 years:
For instance, while the median capital city home in Australia is valued at $741,000, the median household with a 20% deposit could realistically afford to pay only up to $479,000 to avoid mortgage stress.
According to Eliza Owen, CoreLogic’s Head of Australian Research:
"There's probably more challenges than ever for first home buyers trying to get into the market. The median dwelling value, for the median income, is not really serviceable with a 20% deposit at the moment. If you don’t own housing already, it’s very difficult for incomes to keep pace with the movement of values, particularly for houses."
Adelaide Timbrell, ANZ senior economist, further adds that the housing affordability situation is expected to worsen in the coming year as house prices and rents continue to rise:
"We’re not seeing any reason to think there's going to be a turnaround in housing affordability any time soon."
Unfortunately, the Australian Dream of owning a home is drifting further out of reach. The record immigration program implemented by the Albanese government is compounding the issue, leading to increased house prices, rents, and interest rates.
Published:Wednesday, 29th Nov 2023 Source: Paige Estritori
Recent data reveals a significant resurgence in property investor activity within Australia's mortgage market. In the three months leading up to June 2025, investor loans accounted for 38% of new mortgages, marking the highest proportion since 2017. This uptick translates to nearly 50,000 loans valued at approximately $33 billion. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has released its October 2025 Financial Stability Review, providing a comprehensive assessment of the nation's financial health. The report concludes that Australia's financial system remains well-positioned to navigate the current global economic uncertainties. - read more
In a strategic move to streamline operations, ANZ Bank has announced plans to reduce its workforce by 3,500 employees by September 2026. This decision is part of the bank's broader initiative to enhance operational efficiency and reduce redundancy within its organisational structure. - read more
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has reported a record full-year cash profit of A$10.25 billion for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This impressive financial performance is attributed to robust growth in both home and business lending sectors. - read more
Singapore-based DBS Bank has announced plans to double its Australian lending book from A$11 billion to A$20 billion over the next five years. This strategic expansion aims to capitalise on growing trade ties between Australia and Southeast Asian countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. - read more
In a landmark decision, ANZ Bank has agreed to pay a record AU$240 million penalty following investigations by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) into significant corporate misconduct. This penalty, the largest ever imposed on a single entity for corporate wrongdoing in Australia, underscores the gravity of ANZ's violations and their widespread impact on customers and the federal government. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has recently highlighted the need for continued caution in lending practices, even as data indicates an improvement in borrowers' financial health. This advisory comes in the context of a dynamic economic environment where both opportunities and risks coexist. - read more
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has recently provided updated guidance to authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) regarding pre-sales and commercial property lending. This move aims to clarify expectations and support both borrowers and lenders in the commercial property sector. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has raised concerns about certain payday lenders potentially breaching consumer protection laws. In a report released on 13 March 2025, ASIC highlighted that some lenders offering small amount credit contracts (SACCs) may be attempting to circumvent regulatory obligations, thereby exposing vulnerable consumers to increased financial risks. - read more
The Australian financial landscape is witnessing a significant surge in private lending, presenting both opportunities and challenges for brokers. As traditional banks tighten their lending criteria, private lenders are stepping in to fill the gap, offering more flexible funding solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and individuals with non-conforming credit profiles. - read more
Understanding the mechanics behind credit scores is pivotal for anyone navigating the intricate world of finance. A strong credit score does not only unlock the gates to a plethora of borrowing options but also secures favorable interest rates, which can save you a substantial amount of money over time. It acts as a financial passport, one that enables you to achieve milestones such as purchasing a home or car with ease. - read more
Choosing the right loan can be a pivotal decision in your personal financial journey. In Australia, where a diverse range of loan options is available, selecting the loan that aligns perfectly with your needs is more crucial than ever. A judicious choice can help you fulfill your dreams—be it buying a new home, investing in education, or consolidating debt—while ensuring that the repayments remain manageable and do not lead to financial strain. - read more
Managing debt is a cornerstone of financial wellness. Whether it's credit card debt, student loans, or a mortgage, keeping debt in check helps you maintain a healthy financial state. High levels of debt can lead to financial stress, impacting your overall well-being and limiting your ability to save for future goals. - read more
Understanding the nuances of financial health is a crucial component in the journey of loan acquisition. It is the bedrock on which potential borrowers build their case for credibility and reliability. Among the myriad of factors influencing your fiscal stability, credit scores stand out as a beacon indicating your creditworthiness to lenders. A robust credit score simplifies the path to securing loans, garnering favorable interest rates, and negotiating better terms. - read more
Financial stress can feel like an unstoppable force, a cycle of worry that impacts not only our peace of mind but also our fiscal health. It represents the anxiety and pressure associated with the inability to meet financial obligations, be it due to unforeseen expenses, unemployment, or a plethora of other reasons. - read more
Managing personal finances judiciously becomes paramount when dealing with loans and their repayments. A potential obstacle many encounter is preserving or enhancing their credit score while simultaneously undertaking the necessary financial commitments of loan repayments. Understanding how to navigate this terrain is vital to financial health. - read more
As we navigate the complexities of today's economy, the significance of credit can scarcely be overstated. Whether we're considering a home mortgage, a new car, or managing our personal finances, our credit health often dictates the terms and accessibility of financial support. A robust credit score can open doors to favorable loan terms and rates, while a poor score can narrow our options and cost us more in the long run. - read more
Embarking on the journey to secure a loan can feel like navigating a minefield with your credit score as the prize. It's no secret that your credit score is your financial fingerprint, impacting not just your loan prospects but also the terms you're offered. However, the act of loan hunting itself, if not done carefully, can take a toll on this crucial number. - read more
Maintaining a healthy credit score is crucial for anyone looking to secure their financial future. A good credit score can open doors to better loan rates, more favourable credit card terms, and even housing opportunities. It's something that impacts many major financial decisions you make in life. Without a solid score, you might end up paying more in interest and find it harder to get approval for the things you really need. - read more
Financial health refers to the state of one's personal financial situation. It encompasses a variety of factors, such as income stability, expenses control, savings, investments, and debt management. - read more
Need Help Finding a Loan?
Find out now if you qualify and compare
rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check!
All finance quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your
privacy.
Knowledgebase
Personal Loan: a loan that is granted for personal use, normally unsecured and granted by a lender on the borrower's integrity and capacity to repay