RBA Highlights Housing Shortfall as Key Driver of Rental Crisis
RBA Highlights Housing Shortfall as Key Driver of Rental Crisis
2
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 fresh perspective on Australia's ongoing rental crisis, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has shed light on housing supply shortages as the primary cause, rather than the commonly blamed higher interest rates.
The report, authored by Declan Twohig, Anirudh Yadav, and Jonathan Hambur, comes at a critical time when the nation faces intense scrutiny over rising rental prices and the affordability of housing. Despite widespread assumptions, the authors highlight that landlords are unlikely to transfer increased costs resulting from interest rate hikes to their tenants. This perspective is noteworthy, considering the RBA has adjusted interest rates upwards on 13 occasions over the past 18 months.
The analysis reframes the conversation on Australia's rental market, positioning the lack of adequate housing development as the more influential factor. As observed in other global cities experiencing similar crises, such as New York and London, the shortfall in housing creation rather than borrowing costs often stands at the crisis's core.
The backdrop to this report highlights a bigger picture, one that considers urban planning and government policies as central issues to be addressed. By focusing on maintaining a steady construction pipeline, there could be hope for stabilizing the rental market and easing the burden on renters.
An illustrative example of housing projects being delayed or paused could be seen as correlating with the rental shortages. Furthermore, initiatives like tax reforms and incentive structures for developers might stimulate faster growth in housing supply, with potential knock-on effects benefiting struggling renters.
Interestingly, the authors pointed to scenarios in other sectors, such as commercial property, where despite fluctuating interest rates, the availability of market stock generally dictates lease terms and rent reviews, rather than interest financial pressures alone.
Published:Thursday, 17th Oct 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
In a significant development for the motorcycle industry, KTM AG has successfully secured €600 million in funding, enabling the company to fulfill its restructuring plan and stabilize its financial position. This funding comes at a crucial time, as KTM faced a severe financial crisis that led to self-administration and a comprehensive restructuring process. - read more
Peter Stevens Motorcycles, a cornerstone of the Australian motorcycle retail industry, has entered voluntary administration, casting uncertainty over the future of the company and its approximately 400 employees. Founded in 1970 by the Chiodo family, the retailer expanded to 15 locations across Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, and Western Australia, representing major brands such as Harley-Davidson, Ducati, and Triumph. - read more
The Australian motorcycle market experienced a 2.2% decline in sales during the first nine months of 2025, according to data released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI). A total of 63,988 motorcycles were sold between January and September, down from 65,399 units in the same period of 2024. - read more
The thrill of owning a new bike is unmatched, especially for enthusiasts who dream of hitting the open road with the wind in their hair and a powerful engine beneath them. Bike loans make this dream accessible, offering a structured way to finance your two-wheeled companion without the upfront financial strain. - read more
There’s nothing quite like the excitement and sense of freedom that comes with owning a motorcycle. Hitting the open road, feeling the wind rush past you, and experiencing the thrill of two wheels is truly unmatched. - read more
When it comes to buying a motorcycle, having a solid credit history can make a significant difference in your loan approval process. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, a good credit history showcases your financial responsibility and reliability to lenders. - read more
START HERE
Get a free bike loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored
specifically to your circumstances.
Knowledgebase
Loan Amortisation Schedule: This is the formal name for the repayment schedule that shows each of your mortgage payments with a breakdown of how much is applied to principal and how much is applied to interest.
