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 Housing Market Poised for 5% Growth in 2026

26 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia's residential property market is projected to experience a 5% increase in house prices over the next 12 months. This follows an 8.6% rise in 2025, marking the strongest annual growth since 2021. The anticipated growth is primarily driven by demand outstripping supply, a trend observed across all states and territories. - read more

APRA Introduces Caps on High Debt-to-Income Home Loans

26 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced new measures to cap high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, effective from February 2026. This decision aims to curb potential risks in the housing market by limiting the proportion of new home loans that exceed a DTI ratio of six times the borrower's income. - read more

NAB Raises Fixed Home Loan Rates in Anticipation of RBA's February Decision

26 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In a move that signals potential shifts in the Australian mortgage landscape, the National Australia Bank (NAB) has announced an increase in its fixed home loan rates by up to 0.40 percentage points. This adjustment comes as the banking sector braces for a possible cash rate hike by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) in February 2026. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Finance Articles

Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Personal Loan in Australia

Personal loans are a type of financing option that individuals can use to fund various personal expenses. Unlike mortgages or car loans, they aren't earmarked for a specific purpose, giving borrowers more flexibility in how they use the funds. These loans are usually unsecured, which means you don’t have to provide collateral to borrow money. - read more

The In-Depth Guide to Boat Loans in Australia: What You Need to Know Before Diving In

Australia, with its expansive coastline and spectacular waterways, naturally cultivates a rich culture of marine enthusiasts. Imagine the salty breeze on your face as you slice through waves, the call of seabirds overhead, and the freedom to explore hidden coves and beaches – this is the quintessential Australian boating lifestyle. - read more

An Insider's Guide to Enhancing Your Credit Profile for Any Loan

Having a robust credit profile is one of the most critical factors for financial health, especially when seeking loans in Australia. Whether you're eyeing a new car, dreaming of a home or simply want to secure a personal loan for unexpected expenses, your credit score often dictates the outcome. Not only does it influence a lender's decision to offer you finance, but it also affects the interest rates you might be charged. - read more

Knowledgebase

Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI):
A personal finance measure that compares an individual's monthly debt payment to their monthly gross income.

Housing Australia Broadens Lender Access to 5% Deposit Scheme

Enhanced Competition and Choice for Australian Homebuyers

Share this news item:

Free Loan Eligibility Assessment