Relief for First-Time Home Buyers: Reforming Borrowing Rules

2

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.

The inquiry's report is anticipated to propose a total of seven recommendations for the government to evaluate. Among these is a revision of the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority's (APRA) regulations, allowing adjustments to the serviceability buffer based on prevailing interest rates and economic conditions. This adjustment aims to alleviate the difficulty faced by nearly 37.5% of first-time home seekers who, as the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia notes, struggle to secure financing under existing rules.

The buffer, introduced at a time when Australia's cash rate stood at a mere 0.1%, demands potential buyers demonstrate their ability to manage mortgage repayments at a theoretical interest rate significantly higher than the current average. For instance, with a 4.35% cash rate, the serviceability test requires proof of affordability at a 7.35% interest rate-a requirement that many find unattainable.

Senator Andrew Bragg, the Coalition's home ownership spokesperson, highlighted the need for these reforms. "Our inquiry delved into the factors making an initial mortgage increasingly unattainable for many Australians," stated Senator Bragg. “We engaged with regulatory bodies, banks, and industry experts to identify unnecessary barriers disadvantaging first-time buyers.”

The initial report also underscores the challenges new buyers encounter in saving for a 20% deposit amidst ever-increasing property prices while also meeting the strict 3% buffer criteria. It acknowledges the unfair advantage enjoyed by those who can leverage familial financial support, such as accessing the "bank of mum and dad."

Moreover, the report suggests modifying current capital risk weightings-financial calculations affecting how banks determine necessary mortgage insurance-thereby decreasing the financial burden on borrowers without family support.

Senator Bragg argues that current risk systems unnecessarily burden certain borrowers. “The current practices serve disproportionately to benefit those fortunate enough to have family backing them financially,” he notes. “We need a lending policy that realigns with the ethos of the Australian Dream-making home ownership attainable once more.”

Addressing lender requisites holistically, the recommendation proposes a broader review of APRA's regulatory remit to include the impact these rules have on first-time buyers.

This revised lending framework is imperative to rejuvenating the dreams of many Australians who wish to own their homes but are currently hindered by stringent regulations.

Information for this article was gathered from News Corp Australia's report on the current state of mortgage lending for first-time home buyers.

Published:Thursday, 28th Nov 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

Macquarie Bank Transfers $1.5 Billion Car Loan Portfolio to Allied Credit

28 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant move within the Australian financial sector, Macquarie Bank has agreed to sell a $1.5 billion portfolio of car loans to Allied Credit, a leading independent financier in Australia. This portfolio encompasses over 50,000 car loans and is slated for transfer by the fourth quarter of 2025. - read more

ASIC's Findings Highlight Urgent Need for Reform in Car Finance Lending Practices

20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently unveiled findings from its comprehensive review of the motor vehicle finance sector, highlighting concerning trends that are likely to prompt a tightening of lending practices across the industry. - read more

Affordable Electric Vehicles: New Low-Interest Loans for Eligible Australians

20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian government has launched a new initiative to make electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible to a broader segment of the population. This program offers low-interest loans to individuals earning less than $100,000 annually, as well as essential workers, facilitating the purchase of new and used EVs priced up to $55,000. - read more

Surge in Car Loan Delinquencies Sparks Financial Sector Worries

20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia is witnessing a notable increase in car loan delinquencies, raising alarms about the potential ripple effects on the broader financial sector. This trend reflects the financial strain many Australians are experiencing amid economic challenges. - read more

ASIC's Findings Highlight Urgent Need for Reform in Car Finance Lending Practices

04 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently unveiled findings from its comprehensive review of the motor vehicle finance sector, highlighting concerning trends that are likely to prompt a tightening of lending practices across the industry. - read more

Affordable Electric Vehicles: New Low-Interest Loans for Eligible Australians

04 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian government has launched a new initiative to make electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible to a broader segment of the population. This program offers low-interest loans to individuals earning less than $100,000 annually, as well as essential workers, facilitating the purchase of new and used EVs priced up to $55,000. - read more

Surge in Car Loan Delinquencies Sparks Financial Sector Worries

04 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia is witnessing a notable increase in car loan delinquencies, raising alarms about the potential ripple effects on the broader financial sector. This trend reflects the financial strain many Australians are experiencing amid economic challenges. - read more

Click for more Finance News