First Home Buyer :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Significant Increase in First Home Buyer Loans in December Quarter

Understanding the Recent Surge in First Home Buyer Activity

Significant Increase in First Home Buyer Loans in December Quarter?w=400

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.

Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates a notable uptick in first home buyer loans during the December quarter, with applications rising by nearly 7%.
This marks the most substantial increase since 2023, reflecting a renewed interest among first-time buyers in entering the property market.

Several factors have contributed to this surge. The introduction of a new five per cent deposit scheme, alongside the federal government's Help to Buy initiative, has made homeownership more accessible. These programs allow eligible buyers to purchase properties with a minimal deposit, reducing the financial barriers traditionally associated with buying a home.

New South Wales has been at the forefront of this trend. The average first home buyer loan in the state rose by a record 8.5% to $607,624 during the quarter. This significant increase underscores the heightened demand and the willingness of buyers to invest more in securing their first property.

However, this surge also brings challenges. The increased demand can lead to heightened competition in the housing market, potentially driving up property prices. Prospective buyers should remain vigilant, ensuring they are well-informed about market conditions and the financial commitments involved in purchasing a home.

For those considering entering the market, it's essential to assess personal financial readiness, explore available government schemes, and seek professional advice to navigate the complexities of the home buying process effectively.

Published:Friday, 6th Mar 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Is the 5% Deposit Scheme Driving Up Home Prices?
Is the 5% Deposit Scheme Driving Up Home Prices?
15 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent analyses indicate that the Australian Government's 5% Deposit Scheme, designed to assist first-home buyers, may inadvertently be contributing to rising property prices. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reveals a significant increase in mortgages issued to first-time buyers, with $19.310 billion recorded in the December quarter of 2025-a 16% rise from the previous quarter and the highest since early 2021. - read more
Growing Trend of First-Home Buyers Over 40 in Victoria
Growing Trend of First-Home Buyers Over 40 in Victoria
15 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Victoria is witnessing a notable shift in the demographics of first-home buyers, with a growing proportion making their initial property purchase after the age of 40. Recent data from the State Revenue Office indicates that over 1,000 Victorians in their 60s bought their first home in the past financial year. - read more
Significant Uptick in First-Home Buyer Loans in Late 2025
Significant Uptick in First-Home Buyer Loans in Late 2025
07 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian housing market witnessed a notable increase in first-home buyer activity during the final quarter of 2025. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) indicates that the number of new first-home buyer loans rose by 6.8% to 31,783, marking the most substantial quarterly rise since late 2023. This surge reflects a growing confidence among first-time buyers, despite ongoing affordability challenges. - read more
Rising Age of First-Home Buyers in Australia: A Growing Trend
Rising Age of First-Home Buyers in Australia: A Growing Trend
07 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent data reveals a significant shift in the demographics of first-home buyers in Australia. The average age of individuals purchasing their first home has risen to 34, an increase of nearly two years since 2020. This trend highlights the evolving challenges and considerations faced by Australians aspiring to enter the property market. - read more


Home Loan Articles

Understanding How Interest Rates Affect Your Home Loan Payment
Understanding How Interest Rates Affect Your Home Loan Payment
Interest rates might seem like just a number, but they play a crucial role in determining how much you ultimately pay for your home. Simply put, the interest rate on your home loan is the cost you incur for borrowing money from a lender. - read more
First Home Buyers: Mastering the Jargon of Home Loans
First Home Buyers: Mastering the Jargon of Home Loans
Buying your first home is a thrilling milestone, filled with anticipation and the promise of a new chapter in your life. For many Australians, it's a dream to own a place they can truly call their own. However, alongside the excitement, comes the reality of navigating the complex property market, which can be daunting for first-time buyers. - read more
Budgeting Blunders to Avoid When Buying Your First Home
Budgeting Blunders to Avoid When Buying Your First Home
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a daunting experience, especially for young Australians. The journey is filled with challenges ranging from navigating the real estate market to securing a mortgage that won't stretch your finances too thin. - read more
Your First Home: Steps to Saving for a Deposit
Your First Home: Steps to Saving for a Deposit
In today's rapidly evolving Australian housing market, many prospective homebuyers find themselves confronted with a daunting challenge. Home prices have been on the rise, particularly in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, creating a competitive environment for those looking to secure their first property. This situation can seem overwhelming, but with careful planning and strategic saving, prospective homeowners can successfully navigate this landscape. - read more

Knowledgebase
Interest-Only Loan:
A type of loan where the borrower only pays the interest on the principal balance for a set term.