AFIA Welcomes Expansion of Lender Panel for 5% Deposit Scheme

Enhanced Competition and Choice for Australian Homebuyers

Housing Australia Broadens Lender Access to 5% Deposit Scheme?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.

In a significant move to bolster the Australian housing market, Housing Australia has announced the expansion of its lender panel for the government's 5% Deposit Scheme.

This initiative is set to increase competition among lenders and provide prospective homebuyers with a broader range of options.

The 5% Deposit Scheme, designed to assist eligible Australians in purchasing a home with a deposit as low as 5%, has been instrumental in making homeownership more accessible. By broadening the lender panel, Housing Australia aims to enhance the scheme's reach and effectiveness.

The Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA) has expressed strong support for this development. AFIA's CEO highlighted that the inclusion of more lenders will not only foster a more competitive lending environment but also offer homebuyers greater flexibility in choosing a loan that best suits their needs.

For potential homebuyers, this expansion means increased access to a variety of loan products and potentially more favourable terms. It's advisable for individuals to consult with financial advisors or mortgage brokers to navigate the expanded options and identify the most suitable loan products.

In summary, Housing Australia's decision to expand the lender panel for the 5% Deposit Scheme is a positive step towards enhancing competition in the lending market and providing Australian homebuyers with greater choice and flexibility.

Published:Monday, 17th Nov 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Australian Mortgage Market Reaches Record $2.41 Trillion Amid Rising Property Prices

11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In November 2025, Australia's residential mortgage market achieved a new milestone, with authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) collectively holding $2.41 trillion in home loans. This represents a 0.67% increase over the month and a 6.36% rise over the preceding year, as reported by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA). - read more

APRA Implements Cap on High Debt-to-Income Home Loans to Safeguard Financial Stability

11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating emerging risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will impose a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, limiting banks to issuing no more than 20% of new home loans with DTI ratios of six times or higher. This measure applies to both owner-occupier and investor loans, excluding new housing developments. - read more

Australian Home Prices Hit Record Highs in December 2025

11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In December 2025, Australia's housing market reached a new peak, with the national median home price climbing to $880,000, reflecting an 8.8% increase compared to the previous year. This growth was driven by varying performances across different regions, with regional areas outperforming capital cities. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Finance Articles

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Business Loan Approved

Welcome, Australian entrepreneurs and business owners! Whether you're just setting down the foundation of a startup or steering a well-established enterprise, access to capital remains a critical ingredient for business growth and survival. In the bustling economy of Australia, a well-structured business loan can be the catalyst that propels your business forward, aiding in expansion, the acquisition of new equipment, or simply ensuring smooth operational cash flow during lean periods. - read more

The Great Debate: Pros and Cons of Refinancing Your Home Loan

In recent years, refinancing has emerged as a popular financial strategy for many Australian homeowners. With the housing market's dynamic nature and fluctuating interest rates, more people are considering the benefits of refinancing their home loans. This trend is not surprising, as refinancing can potentially reduce monthly payments, secure lower interest rates, and assist with debt consolidation. - read more

Online Loan Application Essentials: What to Know Before You Click Submit

Welcome to the digital age, where online loans in Australia offer convenience and accessibility like never before. With a few clicks, financing for your next big purchase or consolidation of existing debts is at your fingertips. However, venturing into the world of online lending without a compass can leave you navigating choppy waters. - read more

Knowledgebase

Personal Loan:
A personal loan is a loan provided to an individual or individuals (as opposed to a business) and that can be generally be used for a variety of purposes subject to the approval of the lender.

Housing Australia Broadens Lender Access to 5% Deposit Scheme

Enhanced Competition and Choice for Australian Homebuyers

Share this news item:

Free Loan Eligibility Assessment