Struggling with Mortgage Payments? You are Not Alone: 1.2 Million Aussie Households Affected

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.

The impact of rising mortgage rates on Australian households is a growing concern, according to Roy Morgan Research.

The research firm has conducted a study that models the effects of the current 3.1% increase in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) and the possibility of two more 0.25% rate hikes in February and March.

The findings show that 23.9% of Australian mortgage holders, or 1.1 million households, are already categorized as "At Risk," meaning their mortgage payments exceed a certain percentage of their income. This is the highest level of mortgage stress since July 2013.

If the Reserve Bank goes ahead with the 0.25% rate hikes, the study predicts that mortgage stress will affect 1.2 million households, or 26.3% of mortgage holders. Roy Morgan cautions that this is a conservative estimate and does not account for other factors that may affect the ability of households to pay their mortgages, such as job loss.

Since April 2022, average variable mortgage repayments have increased by 41%, and a further 0.5% rate hike could push them up by 48%. This would result in an additional $1,071 per month for a borrower with a $500,000 variable mortgage.

Another factor adding to the stress on mortgage holders is the expiration of rock-bottom fixed mortgage rates that were offered during the pandemic. Approximately 40% of mortgages originated during this period had rates of around 2.25%, and two-thirds of these will reset to higher rates by the end of 2023, putting even more pressure on already stressed household budgets.

Published:Monday, 30th Jan 2023
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

Firstmac's New Secured Caravan Loans: Flexible Financing for Homeowners

13 May 2026: Paige Estritori

In response to the growing demand for lifestyle financing, non-bank lender Firstmac has unveiled its inaugural secured caravan loan product, tailored specifically for Australian homeowners. This strategic expansion aims to provide flexible and competitive financing solutions for individuals looking to purchase or refinance both new and used caravans. - read more

Selfco's 'Tradie Product': Empowering New Tradespeople with Vehicle Finance

13 May 2026: Paige Estritori

Selfco, a prominent vehicle and equipment finance provider, has unveiled its latest offering, the 'Tradie Product,' designed specifically to support newly qualified tradespeople entering the industry. This initiative aims to facilitate access to essential work vehicles, enabling tradespeople to commence their careers with the necessary tools for success. - read more

COG Financial Services Achieves Milestone Half-Year Performance

13 May 2026: Paige Estritori

COG Financial Services Limited has announced its strongest half-year performance to date, reporting net assets financed totaling $4.5 billion. This achievement marks a 7% increase compared to the corresponding period in the previous year, underscoring the company's robust growth trajectory in the asset finance sector. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Finance Articles

The Ultimate Cheat Sheet for Aussie Borrowers: Top Loan Comparison Strategies

In the dynamic world of Australian finance, securing a loan can be a pivotal move for individuals seeking to achieve their financial goals. Whether it's for purchasing a dream home, expanding a business, or simply consolidating debt, the importance of smart loan comparison cannot be overstated. With an array of lending products available, borrowers are often faced with a bewildering choice. That's why equipping yourself with powerful loan comparison strategies is not just important, it's essential. - read more

How Your Credit Rating Impacts Your Loan Options: What You Need to Know

A credit rating is essentially a numerical representation of your financial trustworthiness. It's like a report card for your creditworthiness, where higher scores indicate better financial habits. Lenders and financial institutions scrutinize this score when you apply for credit, serving as a primary factor in approving or denying loan applications. - read more

The Road to Recovery: How to Rebuild Your Credit for Future Loans

In today’s economy, a good credit score is more than just a number—it's a pivotal element of financial health that can open doors to necessary funding when it's most needed. Whether it's for purchasing a new home, investing in a business, or obtaining personal loans, a robust credit score in Australia is your ticket to favorable interest rates and loan terms. - read more

Knowledgebase

Yield:
The income return on an investment, such as the interest or dividends received from holding a particular security.

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.

Struggling with Mortgage Payments? You are Not Alone: 1.2 Million Aussie Households Affected

Struggling with Mortgage Payments? You are Not Alone: 1.2 Million Aussie Households Affected

Share this news item:

Free Loan Eligibility Assessment