Reserve Bank of Australia cash rate update - July 2017

On the first Tuesday of every month (except in January), the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) sets the cash rate. They decide whether to raise it, lower it or leave it the same, depending on a number of factors, including the performance of the Australian dollar, the state of the housing market and inflation.

The last time the cash rate rose was in November 2010. Since then, the general trend has been for the rate to remain the same, decreasing only every so often. The last decrease was in August 2016.

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JULY'S CASH RATE STAYS UNCHANGED AT: 1.50 PER CENT

What does this mean if I own a property?

When the cash rate stays the same, you shouldn’t see much change in your repayments. However, banks may choose to raise their own interest rates despite the unchanged cash rate. In early 2017, the big four Australian banks began raising their interest rates for investors and owner-occupiers with interest-only loans, independently of the cash rate.

Keep an eye on your lender’s rate because even the slightest interest rate rise could make a considerable dent in your monthly budget. If you do find yourself struggling with increased repayments, speak to a Home Loan Specialist about switching your loan to a lower rate option.

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What if I am looking to buy a property?

An unchanged cash rate means you’re unlikely to see a decrease in the high volumes of buyers and investors entering the property market. Buyers in NSW and VIC can expect to see an influx of first home buyers this month following recent stamp duty changes.

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Extra costs to look out for this month...

Climbing gas and electricity bills: As the temperature creeps further south, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your power bill. Be aware of any increases that may come with using electric heaters, heat lamps in bathrooms, more hot water in the shower, clothes dryers and electric blankets.

Big banks passing down levy costs: This year’s federal budget announced extra taxes for the country’s biggest banks. Despite the government's repeated warnings, the big banks are insisting that these fees must be passed down to their customers. Keep an eye out for extra savings account fees, credit card fees and particularly home loan repayment hikes independent of cash rate changes.

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