Each week, First Home Loan Weekly News Wrap Australia brings a clear, independent recap of Australia’s housing headlines. We sort the noise into need‑to‑know stories on property market movements, policy changes that affect first‑time buyers, regional and city trends, and practical implications for your plans. Expect plain‑English context, quick takeaways, and links to trusted sources, so you can stay informed and confident about your next steps — in under ten minutes.
This Week:
RBA holds the cash rate at about 4.35% as of 16 June. From 1 July the ACT scraps stamp duty for all first home buyers; Tasmanias concession ends after 30 June and its grant reduces from July 2026; WA expands concessions with some measures already underway. New lending weakened in May with first home buyer applications down and auctions quieter after the budget. Rental conditions stay tight with national vacancy near 1.2% and rents up over the year. Listeners are prompted to check eligibility, timing and concessions, and to prepare pre-approval.
EPISODE 2132 | First Home Loan Weekly Property News Wrap | Wed, 17th Jun 2026
17 Jun 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to First Home Loan Weekly Property News Wrap, Im Paige Estritori, and its Wednesday 17 June 2026.
First, interest rates are on hold. The Reserve Bank of Australia kept the cash rate at about 4.35 per cent yesterday, and said it cant rule out future action if inflation doesnt ease. Repayments stay the same for now, but lenders are still assessing tightly. Its a good moment to check your borrowing power across multiple lenders and tidy your documents so pre-approval is smooth.
Next up, big stamp duty moves for first home buyers. From 1 July, the ACT will scrap stamp duty for all first home buyers. Tasmania goes the other way, with its stamp duty concession ending after 30 June, and its First Home Owner Grant set to reduce from 1 July 2026. Western Australia is widening first home buyer concessions, including no duty up to around the low‑$600k mark and discounts beyond that, with some measures already in train and others expected to kick in late July. If youre close to buying, watch your settlement dates and eligibility rules carefully, and get guidance on which grants or concessions you can actually use.
Meanwhile, demand for new home loans softened in May. Industry data shows overall new lending fell year on year, with first home buyer applications down and refinancers also easing. On the ground, fewer than half of homes sold at auction in the first weekend after the federal budget, as higher rates and tax changes like capital gains tax reforms weighed on confidence. For buyers who are ready, less competition may mean more time to negotiate; make sure your budget stacks up at todays rates and consider a low‑deposit pathway if that suits your situation.
And rents remain tight. National vacancy held near 1.2 per cent in May, with every capital still under two per cent and advertised rents up roughly eight per cent over the year. For many renters saving a deposit, thats a squeeze. A clear savings plan, a realistic target deposit, and an eligibility check for five to ten per cent deposit options can help you move sooner without surprises.
Thats the wrap. For personalised support, tools, and a free, no‑obligation eligibility assessment, head to first-home-loan.com.au.
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.
In a landmark move, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) government has announced the abolition of stamp duty for all first home buyers, effective from July 1, 2026. This initiative positions the ACT as the first jurisdiction in Australia to eliminate this tax for first-time purchasers, regardless of property value or income level. - read more
As the June 30, 2026, deadline approaches, Tasmania's first home buyers are racing to finalize property purchases before the expiration of the state's stamp duty exemption. This exemption, which has been instrumental in assisting first-time buyers by reducing upfront costs, is set to conclude without extension. - read more
Recent interest rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) have introduced new challenges for first home buyers, affecting borrowing capacity and market confidence. - read more
Western Australia's 2026 state budget has unveiled a series of initiatives designed to support first-home buyers and address housing affordability challenges. Central to these reforms is a substantial overhaul of stamp duty thresholds, alongside increased funding for affordable housing projects. - read more
Welcome! Embarking on the journey to homeownership is both exciting and daunting, especially for first-time buyers in Australia. One vital step in this process is understanding loan pre-approval and how it can shape your path to securing your dream home. - read more
Welcome to our deep dive into the world of loan eligibility for first-time homebuyers in Australia. Buying your first home is both an exciting and daunting experience. Fortunately, you're not alone on this journey. This article aims to arm you with the essential tips and insights needed to boost your loan eligibility as a first-time buyer. - read more
For many Australians, purchasing a home is one of the biggest financial commitments they will undertake. As a first-time home buyer, navigating the financial landscape can be daunting. This is where government grants come into play, offering much-needed support and financial relief to those entering the property market for the first time. - read more
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, marked by significant decisions that can impact your financial future. One of the most crucial decisions you'll face is selecting the right home loan. Understanding the different types of loans available is not just beneficial; it's essential for every first-time home buyer. - read more
Knowledgebase
Jumbo Loan: A mortgage loan that exceeds the conforming loan limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA).
