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Second Mortgage:
A type of subordinate mortgage made while an original mortgage is still in effect.

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RBA Rate Cut Sparks Surge in Australian Consumer Confidence

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 Reserve Bank of Australia’s recent decision to reduce the official interest rate by 25 basis points to 4.1 per cent in February has invigorated consumer confidence, reaching a three-year high.

The upswing in sentiment began in late 2024 but waned slightly over the holiday season.

However, March data from the Westpac-Melbourne Institute consumer sentiment index indicates a recovery, driven by the RBA's interest rate cut and easing cost pressures.

Westpac’s Matthew Hassan noted that the central bank’s rate reduction, the first since 2020, substantially improved buyer sentiment and overall economic outlook. Employment expectations also improved, albeit despite the unemployment rate lifting slightly to 4.1 per cent in January-remaining historically low.

CreditorWatch's Ivan Colhoun observed a significant uplift in Westpac's unemployment expectations sub-component, suggesting possible declines in unemployment. While external challenges, particularly those related to global trade and tariffs, persist, the Australian labour market starts from a robust position.

Global developments, notably concerning US President Donald Trump's administration's tariffs, have caused consumer unease despite positive domestic conditions. This international tension is a focal point for Australia’s economic strategy moving forward.

Complementary to consumer sentiment, National Australia Bank reported a slight rise in business conditions in February, although a decline in business confidence nearly counteracts these gains. According to NAB’s Alan Oster, the services sector remains strong, while mining lags, reflecting a cautious business outlook despite positive GDP growth and the RBA rate cut.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics recently confirmed a 0.6 per cent economic growth in Q4 2024, moving the nation out of a per capita recession. Nonetheless, the persistence of input cost pressures showcases the ongoing hurdles businesses face amid moderate economic improvements.

Published:Wednesday, 12th Mar 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

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Finance News

Understanding the RBA's Recent Cash Rate Hike to 4.35%

21 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has raised the official cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.35% during its May 2026 meeting. This marks the third consecutive rate hike this year, following increases in February and March. The decision aims to address persistent inflationary pressures within the Australian economy. - read more

How Major Banks Are Responding to the RBA's Latest Rate Increase

21 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Following the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) decision to raise the cash rate to 4.35% on May 5, 2026, Australia's major banks have announced they will pass on the full 0.25% increase to their customers. This move affects both variable home loan rates and savings accounts. - read more

The Growing Impact of Interest Rate Hikes on Australian Mortgage Holders

21 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) recent decision to raise the cash rate to 4.35% has intensified financial pressures on Australian households, particularly mortgage holders. This marks the third consecutive rate hike in 2026, contributing to increased mortgage repayments and heightened financial stress. - read more

ANZ Bank Elevates Fixed Mortgage Rates Beyond 6%

13 May 2026: Paige Estritori

ANZ Bank has recently increased its fixed mortgage rates by up to 0.40 percentage points, marking the second hike in less than three weeks. This adjustment elevates all of ANZ's fixed rates above the 6% threshold, with the lowest now at 6.34% for a one-year term. - read more

Westpac Elevates Fixed Mortgage Rates Beyond 6%

13 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Westpac has recently increased its fixed mortgage rates by up to 0.45 percentage points, joining other major banks in raising rates above the 6% mark. The lowest fixed rate now stands at 6.14% for a two-year term. - read more

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