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Is the 5% Deposit Scheme Driving Up Home Prices?

Understanding the Impact on First-Home Buyers

Is the 5% Deposit Scheme Driving Up Home Prices??w=400

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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

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