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RBA Holds Cash Rate at 4.35% — What It Means for Borrowers in 2026

RBA Holds Cash Rate at 4.35% — What It Means for Borrowers in 2026

At its meeting today, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has held the cash rate at 4.35%, continuing its cautious approach as it monitors inflation, economic growth, and the impact of previous interest rate increases.

This pause reflects the RBA’s “wait and see” stance as it assesses whether inflation is easing toward its target range. You can read the official statement directly from the Reserve Bank of Australia here:  https://www.rba.gov.au/

 

Why the RBA Paused The Cash Rate This Month

The RBA highlighted several key factors influencing today’s decision:

  • Inflation is easing but remains above target

  • Household spending is slowing due to higher mortgage repayments

  • Global conditions remain uncertain

  • Previous rate hikes are still flowing through the economy

Recent data from CoreLogic also shows cooling housing activity across major capitals, reinforcing the RBA’s cautious approach:  https://www.corelogic.com.au/news-research

 

What This Means for Mortgage Holders

For borrowers, the cash rate hold provides short-term stability, but repayments remain significantly higher than two years ago.

Impact on a typical home loan

  • A $600,000 mortgage at current variable rates costs around $3,900–$4,100 per month

  • A $1 million mortgage sits closer to $6,500–$6,800 per month

If you’re unsure whether your current rate is competitive, you can compare options on our Home Loans page:  Home Loans | Tailored Solutions by Elite Mortgage Co.

 

Will Interest Rates Rise Again in 2026?

Economists remain divided. Some expect the RBA to hold steady for several months, while others warn that sticky inflation could force another increase later in the year.

The next RBA meeting will be closely watched for signs of a shift in policy.

 

What Borrowers Should Do Now

With rates remaining high, it’s a good time for homeowners to review their loan strategy:

  • Check your current interest rate

  • Consider refinancing

  • Explore offset accounts

  • Review fixed vs variable options

If you’re thinking about refinancing, visit our Refinancing page for options and guidance: Refinancing Your Home Loan Made Simple – Elite Mortgage Co.  

For local clients in Wollondilly, Camden, and Macarthur, our Mortgage Broker page explains how we support borrowers in the region: Home Loans | Tailored Solutions by Elite Mortgage Co.

 

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Any advice contained in this article is of a general nature only and does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. Therefore, before making any decision, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice with regard to those matters. Information in this article is correct as of the date of publication and is subject to change.

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