Inflation has been heading in the right direction, and the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut the cash rate three times in 2025.
So, is now a good time to refinance?
The decision as to whether to refinance depends largely on your individual situation and goals. Here are a few key considerations to think about when deciding whether or not to refinance.
The latest inflation data was promising
In positive news, the consumer price index (CPI) rose by 2.1% over the 12 months to the June quarter, while the trimmed mean annual inflation was 2.7% to the June quarter. This is the figure the RBA pays close attention to when deciding what to do with the cash rate.
With trimmed mean inflation now at its lowest since December 2021 and well within the RBA’s target band of 2-3%. There is a strong case for further cash rate cuts if inflation and economic growth continue on their current path.
The RBA’s latest Statement on Monetary Policy offered fresh insights into the outlook. Despite markets expecting lower rates since May, the RBA’s inflation forecast remains steady, with the trimmed mean sitting at 2.6% for the next two years.
Financial markets are currently pricing in a cash rate low of 2.9% by December 2026 before edging back up to 3.1% in 2027. If the RBA’s projections are correct, they suggest the economy can operate with a cash rate around 3% and inflation will remain within their target band.
Lender offers are getting sharper
Given the three rate cuts so far this year, there’s a lot of competition amongst lenders to get mortgage holders through the doors.
By refinancing, you may access an attractive cash back offer that helps you get ahead with your goals or secure a more competitive home loan rate. Refinancing and setting you up with a home loan with interest-saving features like a redraw facility or offset account could also help you get ahead financially.
So, should I refinance now or wait it out?
It’s hard to know exactly how soon the RBA will cut the cash rate again. While refinancing will depend largely on your individual situation and goals, there are mounting reasons why refinancing should be on your radar. At the very least, now is a good time to review your home loan to make sure it still measures up, particularly if you fall under any of the following categories.
You’ve been with the same lender for a long time
If your current home loan was locked in at the cycle’s peak, you may be paying more than is necessary on your mortgage. If you’ve had the same home loan for several years, chances are you could be getting a more suitable offer with another lender, so it’s worth exploring your options and shopping around.
Your situation has changed
Have your financial circumstances changed since you took out your original home loan? If so, all the more reason to consider refinancing to a home loan that marries with your current financial situation and long-term objectives.
Your debt is feeling overwhelming
If you’re juggling multiple debts at once, such as a personal loan and credit card debt, it may be worthwhile considering debt consolidation.
With debt consolidation, you essentially roll all your debts into your home loan. It means you only have to make one repayment, making it easier to manage your debt.
It’s important to remember that you may end up paying more interest over the life of the loan if you go down this road, so speak to us and we’ll crunch the numbers for you.
You want to access your equity
Want to make a big-ticket purchase, like buying an investment property or doing a home renovation? Refinancing to access your equity could help you achieve these kinds of goals.
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