Is the 5% Deposit Scheme Driving Up Home Prices?

Understanding the Impact on First-Home Buyers

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 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.

Furthermore, the average size of these mortgages has reached a new peak of $607,500, marking an 8.3% increase in the same period. This trend suggests that while the scheme facilitates easier market entry, it also intensifies competition for affordable properties, potentially driving up prices.

Experts caution that this dynamic could lead to higher loan-to-value ratios for buyers, increasing financial vulnerability, especially if interest rates rise or property values stagnate. Prospective buyers are advised to consider these factors carefully and seek professional financial advice to navigate the complexities of the current housing market.

Published:Wednesday, 15th Apr 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

Western Australia's 2026 Budget: Major Reforms for First-Home Buyers

09 May 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to support first-home buyers, the Western Australian Government has unveiled its 2026 state budget, introducing comprehensive reforms to stamp duty and substantial investments in affordable housing. These initiatives are designed to alleviate the financial burdens associated with purchasing a first home and to stimulate the housing market. - read more

First-Home Buyer Scheme Linked to 6.7% Rise in Affordable Home Prices

09 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent analysis by property analytics firm Cotality has revealed a 6.7% increase in the prices of affordable homes within six months following the expansion of the Australian Government's First-Home Buyer Scheme. This surge raises questions about the scheme's impact on housing affordability for entry-level buyers. - read more

Impact of the 5% Deposit Scheme on Affordable Housing Prices

01 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent data indicates that the Australian Government's expansion of the 5% deposit scheme has significantly influenced the affordable housing market. In the six months following the scheme's October 2025 expansion, properties priced below the government's set caps experienced a 6.7% price increase, nearly doubling the 3.6% rise observed in higher-priced properties. This trend underscores the scheme's role in intensifying demand for entry-level homes. - read more

Declining Housing Affordability Amid Increased First-Home Buyer Demand

01 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) has released a report indicating a decline in housing affordability during the December 2025 quarter. The expansion of the 5% deposit scheme has led to a surge in first-home buyer activity, resulting in higher average loan sizes and increased financial strain on households. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Home Loan Articles

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

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

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

Why Your Credit Score Matters When Buying Your First Home

Buying your first home is an exciting and significant milestone in life, especially for young Australians. The journey from dreaming about home ownership to holding those keys can feel both thrilling and daunting. With property prices fluctuating and the market offering numerous opportunities, understanding the dynamics of purchasing a home in today's Australian housing market is crucial. - read more

Knowledgebase

Interest Rate Lock:
An agreement between a borrower and a lender that allows the borrower to lock in the interest rate on a mortgage for a specified time period.

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.

IMPORTANT: We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party brokers, insurers, and lenders. We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should independently verify the credentials and licensing of any adviser or provider you engage. Visit the ASIC website for further information.