Mortgage Pressure Soars: A Deep Dive Into Affordability Crisis
Mortgage Pressure Soars: A Deep Dive Into Affordability Crisis
3
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
New data sheds light on the ever-increasing challenges faced by New South Wales families grappling with housing affordability.
The latest figures paint a bleak picture as home loan repayments consume a substantial portion of household incomes.
According to fresh insights from the Real Estate Institute of Australia, NSW settlements are experiencing considerable strain, where families are allocating as much as 58.5% of their gross weekly earnings to service their mortgages. This distressing situation is a clear indicator of the housing affordability crisis affecting the state, resulting in alarmingly high costs of living for its residents.
The months between October and December 2023 saw a spike in the average mortgage repayment burden for NSW homeowners, with an increase in excess of $800 compared to previous figures. Despite a minor relief for renters with a dip in income percentage needed to cover rent, they still lead the country in terms of rental affordability challenges.
Compared to NSW neighbors such as Victoria, renter households in the Garden State experience marginally more breathing room, with 27.3% of their weekly income dedicated to rent, as opposed to Victoria's 21.1%. Nonetheless, the closing quarter of 2023 saw a downturn in affordability metrics for both renters and homeowners south of the NSW border.
Victoria wasn't twirling in a bubble of its own; Queensland trailed closely with a 45.1% cut from family budgets to cover mortgage costs. South Australia and Tasmania were also in the fray, with indispensable 44.3% and 43.4% slices of household income financing mortgages.
A contrast to the tougher conditions elsewhere, the Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory (ACT) emerged as the giants in affordability. Their residents needed less of their weekly income to cover housing expenses - with Canberra residents paying less than a fifth for rent.
An analysis of income versus housing costs reveals that ACT dwellers also had the upper hand financially: their weekly earnings surpassed their NSW counterparts by almost $800, mitigating their markedly smaller average home loan.
Despite less financial pressure, the Northern Territory and Western Australia cannot lay back in complacency. Home repayments may only claim 33% of the weekly income in NT, and slightly more in WA, but borrowers in the West have seen their monthly repayments swell by around $600 year-on-year.
The number of first-time homeowners surged in the nation’s concluding quarter of 2023. Over 31,000 families took their inaugural steps onto the property ladder-a sharp 16.8% increase. Quite the phenomenon, considering the affordability squeeze.
And yet, amid concerning figures, NSW still notched a higher count of first home buyers compared to the previous year while getting surpassed by Victoria, which bolstered an impressive array of just under 24,000 fresh mortgages. The lines, though variably drawn across the states and territories, signified an unmistakable trend: the Australian dream, despite the hurdles, persists unvanquished.
Published:Monday, 18th Mar 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
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 underscores the resilience of Australia's financial system, even amidst elevated global uncertainties. Find out now if you qualify and compare rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check! - read more
In a significant shift within Australia's financial sector, major lenders Macquarie Bank and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) have recently implemented stricter policies regarding lending to trusts and companies. These changes reflect a broader trend towards more cautious lending practices in response to regulatory concerns and market dynamics. Find out now if you qualify and compare rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check! - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has 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 announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will impose a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, limiting such loans to 20% of new home lending portfolios. This measure is designed to address concerns over escalating property prices and the potential for financial instability. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has raised significant concerns regarding the private lending sector, emphasising the need for enhanced transparency and adherence to best practices. This scrutiny comes in response to the sector's rapid growth and its increasing role in the financial market. Find out now if you qualify and compare rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check! - read more
In the evolving landscape of Australia's financial sector, non-bank lenders are experiencing a surge in popularity among borrowers seeking more flexible loan terms. This trend is particularly notable among individuals who may not meet the stringent criteria set by traditional banks. Find out now if you qualify and compare rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check! - read more
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change to address emerging risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will impose a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, limiting such loans to 20% of new home lending portfolios. This proactive measure aims to curb potential financial instability arising from escalating property prices and increased credit growth. - read more
In response to emerging regulatory concerns, two of Australia's major lenders, Macquarie Bank and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), have introduced new restrictions on lending to trusts and companies. - read more
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will impose a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, limiting such loans to 20% of new home lending portfolios. This measure is designed to address concerns over escalating property prices and the potential for financial instability. - read more
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), the nation's largest lender, has voiced concerns over the current surge in home loan demand, suggesting it may be contributing to escalating property prices and potential financial instability. CEO Matt Comyn emphasized that while the bank benefits from increased housing credit, a more moderate growth rate would better support long-term financial stability and housing market accessibility. - read more
Financial stress is a common issue that affects a large portion of individuals, often due to unexpected expenses, unemployment, or a high cost of living. It can lead to both mental and emotional strain, influencing one's quality of life and decision-making abilities. Credit scores, a critical measurement of financial health, are used by lenders to evaluate the risk of lending money. - 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
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
A financial crisis can come in many forms, such as a job loss, unexpected medical bills, or an economic downturn. These events can drastically alter your financial stability and may lead to financial distress. - read more
Your credit score is a crucial part of your financial health. Essentially, it’s a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, calculated based on your credit history. In Australia, credit scores range from 0 to 1200, with a higher score indicating better creditworthiness. - read more
Let's dive into the essential topic of emergency funds. An emergency fund is a stash of money set aside to cover the financial surprises life throws your way. These unexpected events can include sudden unplanned repairs, medical emergencies, or job loss. - read more
Understanding financial health is paramount when venturing into the realm of loan acquisition. It's the backbone that supports not just your immediate monetary requirements but ensures longevity in your fiscal stability. At the heart of this understanding lies a critical aspect: the credit score. It's a numerical representation of your financial trustworthiness, influenced by past fiscal decisions and behaviors. - 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
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
When it comes to securing a loan, the terms you agree to can have a lasting impact on your financial wellness. It's crucial to strike a balance between finding a loan that fits your needs and maintaining a healthy credit score. This delicate equilibrium is where loan comparison tools come into play, serving as navigational aids in the vast sea of credit options. - 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
Hedge Fund: An alternative investment vehicle that uses pooled funds to employ different strategies to earn active returns, or alpha, for their investors.