The average mortgage size in Australia has soared to a record high, fueled by surging prices and rising interest rates. According to recent data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the national average new mortgage size hit $624,383 in December 2023, marking an all-time high. Across states and territories, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia all witnessed record-high mortgage sizes.
Despite interest rates hovering in the ‘6’s, Australians are taking on hefty debts, raising concerns about their financial well-being. Sally Tindall, research director at ratecity.com.au, warns borrowers to assess their financial situation carefully before committing to large loans, emphasizing the potential risks associated with high levels of debt.
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While some individuals opt for substantial mortgages, there’s a stark decline in first homebuyer loan commitments, indicating the growing challenge of homeownership amidst soaring property prices. December witnessed an 8.4% drop in first homebuyer loan commitments nationwide, with significant declines observed in Queensland, Victoria, and NSW. Despite the downturn in December, 2023 saw a 12.9% increase in first homebuyer loans, with some states like South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory experiencing growth rates above five percent.
The broader lending market also saw a decline in new loan commitments in December, with owner-occupier loans falling by 5.6% and investor loans sliding by 1.3%. Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn attributes the decline in first homebuyer activity to increased interest rates and surging house prices, which have strained the financial capacity of potential buyers.
Moreover, challenges persist on the supply side of the housing market, with input costs in the building sector continuing to rise. Despite hopes for a decline in building materials costs, the sector experienced a 0.3% increase in the last quarter of 2023, exacerbating the strain on housing affordability and supply.
As house prices continue to climb in early 2024, industry experts advocate for prompt action, including a potential interest rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia, to address the mounting challenges facing prospective homebuyers and the broader housing market.
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