Each week, we unpack the biggest Australian headlines impacting businesses and everyday professionals — from policy changes and economic indicators to tech, compliance, and consumer trends. Expect a crisp recap, plain-English context, and practical takeaways you can act on in minutes. Reliable, jargon-free, and designed for busy listeners who want to stay informed without the noise. Updated weekly, so you never miss what matters.
This Week:
Paige recaps this weeks lending shifts for Australians. Fixed mortgage rates rose sharply as banks priced in a possible early‑February RBA move. APRAs 1 February cap on high debt‑to‑income loans is nearing, likely to impact investors most, so borrowers should tidy debts and prepare documents, especially the self‑employed. Rate forecasts diverge, arguing for flexible structures like variable loans with offsets or mixed fixed/variable terms. APRA is also keeping the three‑percentage‑point serviceability buffer, making some refinances harder; broad lender comparisons and quick eligibility checks can help uncover options.
EPISODE 1146 | Australian Internet Loans Weekly News Insights | Sat, 17th Jan 2026
21 Jan 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to Australian Internet Loans Weekly News Insights, Im Paige Estritori, its Saturday 17 January 2026.
First up, fixed-rate loans moved again late this week, with major lenders lifting some fixed mortgage rates by as much as 70 basis points. Banks appear to be pricing in the chance the Reserve Bank could tighten at its early‑February meeting, so fixed offers are shifting fast. If youre weighing a fixed term, compare options now and run a quick eligibility check so youre ready to act if a sharper offer appears.
Next up, from 1 February the banking regulator APRA will cap high debt‑to‑income lending. Only up to 20 per cent of new loans can go to borrowers with debts above six times income, and investors are likely to feel it most. Your income, existing debts and loan size will matter more, so tidy liabilities, line up your documents, and if youre self‑employed, get BAS and financials in order. A broad lender comparison can reveal alternatives that suit your profile.
Meanwhile, the rate outlook is split. One major bank still expects cuts later this year, while others warn a February hike or extended hold is possible. With uncertainty high, consider flexibility: compare variable options with an offset, or blend fixed and variable so you keep some certainty and some room to move. A fast, no‑obligation eligibility check lets you test scenarios before you commit.
And APRA is keeping the serviceability buffer at about three percentage points for now, despite calls to trim it. That keeps some refinances tough because new lenders must test your repayments at a higher rate than youll actually pay. If you feel stuck in mortgage prison, policy varies by lender; a wide market scan and quick pre‑assessment can surface paths your current bank isnt offering.
Thats the wrap. For an easy way to compare a wide range of personal and business loans and to check your eligibility in minutes, head to internet-loans.com.au.
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.
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