Australian Inflation Eases, Indicating RBA Rate Cuts May Follow
Australian Inflation Eases, Indicating RBA Rate Cuts May Follow
0
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.
Recent data reveals a continued decline in Australian inflation, providing optimism for the financial sector.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and the Melbourne Institute (MI) both reported lower-than-expected inflation rates, with the MI’s trimmed mean inflation reaching its lowest since 2020.
This trend, highlighted by Justin Fabo of Antipodean Macro, indicates a return towards pre-2003 averages.
Declining housing inflation significantly contributes to this disinflationary trend. Lower rents and new home prices have been identified as key factors supporting the fall in the trimmed-mean inflation. The NAB business survey and S&P PMIs further confirm this pattern, showing a consistent disinflation process in February and March.
Additionally, wage data aligns with this downward inflation trend. The Q4 2024 Wage Price Index (WPI) exhibited growth of only 0.65% for the quarter, marking it as the most subdued quarterly increase since the start of 2022. This element of wage data supports the notion that inflationary pressures are easing.
The implications for the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) are significant. With softer-than-expected inflation and wage data, the RBA appears poised to lower interest rates. Economists widely anticipate a rate cut at the RBA’s May board meeting, contingent upon the Q1 CPI findings. The market anticipates further rate reductions throughout the year, suggesting a proactive approach from the RBA to support economic stability.
The combination of easing inflation and moderated wage growth bodes well for consumers and businesses, potentially enhancing purchasing power and stimulating economic activity. As the financial landscape adjusts to these changes, all eyes will be on the RBA’s forthcoming decisions and how these will shape Australia's economic trajectory.
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), the nation's largest lender, has recently voiced concerns regarding the escalating demand for home loans, suggesting that this surge may be contributing to unsustainable property price increases. CEO Matt Comyn highlighted that while the bank benefits from the current housing credit boom, a more moderate growth rate would better support long-term financial stability and housing affordability. - read more
As of October 1, 2025, the Australian government's expanded First Home Guarantee Scheme has come into effect, introducing significant changes designed to make homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers. Key modifications include the removal of income caps, increased property price limits, and the elimination of restrictions on the number of guarantees available. - read more
In October 2025, Australian home prices experienced their sharpest monthly increase in over two years, with national dwelling values rising by approximately 1.1%, according to data from Cotality. This surge reflects a significant rebound in the housing market, driven by a combination of factors. - read more
Australia's leading banks-Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), Westpac, National Australia Bank (NAB), and ANZ-are adjusting their mortgage strategies to reduce dependence on mortgage brokers. This move comes as profit margins are squeezed by lower interest rates, rising operational costs, and intensified market competition. - read more
On November 3, 2025, Westpac Banking Corporation announced an agreement to sell its RAMS mortgage portfolio, valued at A$21.4 billion, to a consortium comprising Pepper Money, investment firm KKR, and asset manager PIMCO. The sale is at a slight premium to the gross loan value of the portfolio to be transferred at completion. However, Westpac anticipates incurring a loss on the sale after accounting for transaction costs and other financial adjustments. - read more
Mortgage stress is a common concern among homeowners worldwide, with the potential to cause significant financial and emotional strain. It often occurs when mortgage repayments consume a large portion of your income, leaving little room for other expenses and causing anxiety over financial security. The impact of not managing this stress can be far-reaching, affecting not only one's financial health but also overall wellbeing. - read more
Embarking on the journey to homeownership can feel like navigating uncharted waters, with mortgage brokers often serving as the compass guiding you through the complexities of home financing. For many first-time home buyers, understanding the role of a mortgage broker can provide peace of mind and valuable support throughout the home-buying process. - read more
Buying a home is a significant milestone for many Australians, but it often involves securing a mortgage, which can be a complex process. An essential part of this process is understanding mortgage insurance. Mortgage insurance is a type of insurance policy that protects lenders from the risk of defaulting borrowers. - read more
A credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness. It is calculated based on your credit history, including factors like your payment history, the amount of debt you have, and the length of your credit history. - read more
Stepping into the realm of homeownership begins with a critical financial milestone: securing home loan pre-approval. This inaugural step paves the way for homebuyers to gain a clear understanding of their borrowing capacity, directly influencing their purchasing decisions. In Australia, where the real estate market teems with competitive energy, effective navigation through the pre-approval process offers a competitive edge. - read more
Need Help Finding a Home Loan?
Get your free home loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored
specifically to your circumstances.
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without
obligation. We respect your
privacy.
"Mastering Home Loans: Navigating the Australian Mortgage Market"