No Credit Check :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Climbing Mortgage Arrears Signal Heightened Financial Strain

Climbing Mortgage Arrears Signal Heightened Financial Strain

Climbing Mortgage Arrears Signal Heightened Financial Strain?w=400
Australian households are navigating a more complex financial landscape as mortgage arrears have climbed to a peak not seen since the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new report from Fitch Ratings.
The Fitch's Dinkum RMBS index has indicated that, as of the last quarter of 2023, households are falling behind on mortgage payments more frequently, sparking concerns about financial resiliency amid ever-tightening economic conditions.

The report details a surge in 30+ day mortgage arrears, striking 1.21% in Q4 2023—a noticeable leap of 10 basis points over the previous quarter. This incremental yet steady uptick since December 2022 poses a stark contrast to the multi-decade lows experienced earlier that year. Furthermore, the report spotlights a significant hike in early-stage arrears where delinquencies between 30 and 60 days have ascended by six basis points to 0.45%, the highest recorded since early 2016.

An annual escalation in arrange numbers typically occurs in the final quarter; however, this year's upturn has exceeded previous patterns, hinting at the pressure applied by sustained inflation and the cumulative 4.25% rise in official interest rates since May 2022. Such financial pressures are beginning to leave a noticeable imprint on numerous Australian borrowers.

The disparity in payment regularity is even more pronounced within non-conforming mortgage indexes, as these segments marked a substantial increase in delinquencies. The rate of mortgages exceeding 30 days in arrears rose by 24 basis points, and those surpassing 90 days grew by 28 basis points, from the previous quarter.

  • The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has uncovered that variable rate mortgage holders are enduring intensified financial burdens, with approximately one in every twenty now facing negative cash flow situations.
  • Households are grappling with expenditures that eclipse their incomes—a state primarily provoked by the recent interest rate surges and persistent inflation.
  • Despite these daunting trends, the RBA notes that a majority of borrowers remain capable of servicing debts and maintaining essential living standards, albeit under much tighter financial constraints.

Scrutinizing Australia's household finances, we find that since the onset of 2022, there has been an approximately seven percent drop in real disposable income when considering inflation and interest payment adjustments. Whilst dwelling values persist in reaching new zeniths, growth in house prices continues to bolster the collateral value significantly.

National median home values have crossed the threshold of $1.09 million, with noteworthy cities such as Sydney and Melbourne quoting medians of $1.6 million and $1.1 million, respectively, paving the way for a strain on affordability for the average Australian.

Projections from Fitch suggest that housing prices could inflate further by four to six percent come 2024. Supply constraints, a pressurized rental market, and robust migration patterns reinforce this expectation. They also provide some solace for mortgage holders that asset-backed losses are likely to remain low, cushioned by substantial equity accrued through a prolonged period of property value appreciation.

Published:Tuesday, 26th Mar 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Finance News

Uncovering the Impact of Unsolicited Solar Sales on Consumers Uncovering the Impact of Unsolicited Solar Sales on Consumers
04 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

In a concerning revelation, Australian retiree Christine Hirchfield shares her ordeal with an unsolicited solar installation that turned into a financial nightmare. Despite her initial enthusiasm for cheaper energy bills and a greener home, the project remains incomplete more than a year later. Consumer groups are now advocating for a nationwide prohibition on deceptive sales practices that target vulnerable consumers like Ms Hirchfield. - read more
Australian Online Retail Sees Continued Growth in May Amidst Nationwide Spending Surge Australian Online Retail Sees Continued Growth in May Amidst Nationwide Spending Surge
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

Australian online retail sales experienced a modest rise in May, as consumers continued to invest in fashion, games, and toys. According to the latest figures from the National Australia Bank, there was a 0.7% increase in online sales for the month, compared to a 1.1% growth in April. Over the past year, Australians have spent approximately $63 billion on online retail purchases. - read more
Pay Boosts and Policy Changes: A Closer Look at Financial Updates for Australian Workers Pay Boosts and Policy Changes: A Closer Look at Financial Updates for Australian Workers
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The starting days of the new financial year bring significant changes for Australian workers, particularly those on minimum wage. As of Tuesday, the minimum wage will rise by 3.5 per cent, increasing hourly earnings to $24.95, or $948 weekly. This adjustment also affects award wages and comes as a response to rising living costs, outpacing current inflation rates. - read more
US Dollar Faces Historic Decline Amid Trump’s Tariff Policies US Dollar Faces Historic Decline Amid Trump’s Tariff Policies
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The US dollar has experienced an unprecedented decline, marking its worst first-half performance since 1973. Concerns surrounding President Donald Trump's tariff policies have intensified, leading to a substantial drop in the value of the world's primary reserve currency. Specifically, the dollar weakened by 10.7% against a basket of major trading partners' currencies in the first six months of the year, reminiscent of Nixon's era when the dollar was untethered from gold. - read more
Auditor Deregistered After Brite Advisers Collapse Auditor Deregistered After Brite Advisers Collapse
30 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has deregistered auditor David Makowa, previously of DM Advisory Services, due to his role in the downfall of financial advice firm Brite Advisers. This decision follows Makowa's acceptance of a court-enforceable undertaking in which he agreed to surrender his auditor registration permanently, pledging never to re-apply. - read more
US Involvement in Israel-Iran Conflict Sparks Financial Market Concerns US Involvement in Israel-Iran Conflict Sparks Financial Market Concerns
23 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

The escalating likelihood of the United States engaging militarily in the Israel-Iran conflict has raised alarm among investors, potentially leading to significant market volatility. This concern was highlighted by the global financial advisory firm, deVere Group, as tensions heighten in the Middle East. - read more
Global Markets Brace for Oil Price Surge Following US Strike on Iran Global Markets Brace for Oil Price Surge Following US Strike on Iran
23 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

The recent US military attack on Iranian nuclear facilities has raised expectations of a significant oil price spike as global markets prepare to resume trading. Announced by former President Donald Trump, the attack marks an increased US involvement in the Middle East, which analysts believe could lead to heightened volatility across financial markets. - read more
Trump Mulls Change of Heart on Firing Fed Chair Powell Trump Mulls Change of Heart on Firing Fed Chair Powell
21 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

US President Donald Trump is once again contemplating the dismissal of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, whom he has criticized for not lowering interest rates. Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with Powell's decisions in a Truth Social post, suggesting he might change his mind about firing him. Despite acknowledging that his strong criticisms make Powell's task challenging, Trump remains focused on his agenda for reduced rates, especially with Powell's term set to end in May 2026. - read more
APRA Clarifies HELP Debt Considerations in Home Loan Assessments APRA Clarifies HELP Debt Considerations in Home Loan Assessments
20 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has released pivotal updates to the Prudential Practice Guide APG 223 and Reporting Standard ARS 223.0, focusing on how Authorised Deposit-taking Institutions (ADIs) should integrate Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) debt into home loan evaluations. The changes are aimed at enhancing regulatory clarity and acknowledging the individual circumstances of borrowers, including the nuances of their HELP debts, without compromising prudent lending practices. - read more
Economic Unrest Spurs Increased Reliance on Financial Advisers Economic Unrest Spurs Increased Reliance on Financial Advisers
20 Jun 2025: Paige Estritori

In the face of ongoing economic turmoil encompassing inflation, market volatility, and other financial stresses, a global survey from Natixis Investment Managers, conducted by CoreData Research, has highlighted a growing trend: investors are increasingly relying on their financial advisers. With 91 per cent of surveyed investors expressing trust in their financial advisers for investment decisions, this highlights an unmistakable shift amidst financial uncertainty. - read more


Finance Articles

Navigating Financial Uncertainty: Tips for Managing Money Worries Navigating Financial Uncertainty: Tips for Managing Money Worries
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
How to Use Credit Cards Wisely to Enhance Your Credit Score How to Use Credit Cards Wisely to Enhance Your Credit Score
Your credit score is more than just a number; it's a reflection of your financial health. Essentially, it’s a numerical expression that represents your creditworthiness. Lenders use this score to assess the level of risk involved in lending you money. - read more
How to Create a Budget that Keeps Your Debt in Check How to Create a Budget that Keeps Your Debt in Check
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 Your Credit File: How to Seek Loans without Negative Impacts Understanding Your Credit File: How to Seek Loans without Negative Impacts
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
Understanding No-Credit-Check Loans: A Lifeline for Managing Financial Stress Wisely Understanding No-Credit-Check Loans: A Lifeline for Managing Financial Stress Wisely
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
Quick and Easy Tips to Boost Your Loan Approval Odds Without Affecting Credit Quick and Easy Tips to Boost Your Loan Approval Odds Without Affecting Credit
Loan approval can often be a crucial milestone in achieving your financial goals. Whether you're looking to buy a home, pay for education, or consolidate debt, securing a loan can provide the financial boost you need to move forward. - read more
Choosing the Right Loan for Your Personal Needs in Australia Choosing the Right Loan for Your Personal Needs in Australia
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
Loan Hunting with Confidence: How to Check Options Without Credit Damage Loan Hunting with Confidence: How to Check Options Without Credit Damage
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
Effective Debt Management Tips for Young Adults Effective Debt Management Tips for Young Adults
Managing debt effectively is crucial for young adults, especially as they start building their financial independence. Understanding how to manage debt properly can help you avoid financial pitfalls and set you up for a stable future. - read more
How to Use Loan Comparison Tools Effectively - A Guide for the Credit-Conscious How to Use Loan Comparison Tools Effectively - A Guide for the Credit-Conscious
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
Understanding No-Credit-Check Loans: A Lifeline for Managing Financial Stress Wisely Understanding No-Credit-Check Loans: A Lifeline for Managing Financial Stress Wisely
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
Understanding Soft Credit Checks: Safeguard Your Score During Loan Comparison Understanding Soft Credit Checks: Safeguard Your Score During Loan Comparison
When embarking on the journey to secure financing, particularly for significant purchases such as a car, your credit score takes center stage in the eyes of lenders. A credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, derived from your financial history and behaviors. It wields substantial influence on your ability to acquire loans with favorable terms. - read more
How to Use Credit Cards Wisely to Enhance Your Credit Score How to Use Credit Cards Wisely to Enhance Your Credit Score
Your credit score is more than just a number; it's a reflection of your financial health. Essentially, it’s a numerical expression that represents your creditworthiness. Lenders use this score to assess the level of risk involved in lending you money. - read more
Quick and Easy Tips to Boost Your Loan Approval Odds Without Affecting Credit Quick and Easy Tips to Boost Your Loan Approval Odds Without Affecting Credit
Loan approval can often be a crucial milestone in achieving your financial goals. Whether you're looking to buy a home, pay for education, or consolidate debt, securing a loan can provide the financial boost you need to move forward. - read more
Understanding Soft Inquiries: How to Check Loan Options Without Affecting Your Credit Score Understanding Soft Inquiries: How to Check Loan Options Without Affecting Your Credit Score
Soft inquiries are a type of credit check that does not impact your credit score. These checks occur when you or a company reviews your credit report as part of a background check, pre-approval process, or other non-lending purpose. - read more
Choosing the Right Loan for Your Personal Needs in Australia Choosing the Right Loan for Your Personal Needs in Australia
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
Top 5 Mistakes That Damage Your Credit Score and How to Avoid Them Top 5 Mistakes That Damage Your Credit Score and How to Avoid Them
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
Navigating Financial Uncertainty: Tips for Managing Money Worries Navigating Financial Uncertainty: Tips for Managing Money Worries
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
Effective Debt Management Tips for Young Adults Effective Debt Management Tips for Young Adults
Managing debt effectively is crucial for young adults, especially as they start building their financial independence. Understanding how to manage debt properly can help you avoid financial pitfalls and set you up for a stable future. - read more
Loan Hunting with Confidence: How to Check Options Without Credit Damage Loan Hunting with Confidence: How to Check Options Without Credit Damage
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


Need Help Finding a Loan?
Find out now if you qualify and compare rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check!
Loan Amount:
Postcode:
All finance quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Prepayment Penalty:
A fee charged by a lender if a borrower pays off their loan early.


Quick Links: | Personal Loans | Car Loans | Bike Loans | Boat Loans | Truck Loans | Home Loans | Business Loans | Debt Consolidation