29/09/2026
As interest rates reshape Australia’s lending market, refinancing, non-bank lending and specialist credit solutions are becoming increasingly important.
On 29 September 2026, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increased the cash rate target by 25 basis points (0.25 percentage points), from 4.35% to 4.60%.
Australia’s lending market continues to navigate a challenging economic environment. With persistent inflation and higher borrowing costs influencing the Reserve Bank of Australia’s monetary policy decisions, both residential and commercial borrowers are reassessing their financing strategies.
The impact on individual loan rates and repayments will depend on each lender’s pricing decisions and the borrower’s loan terms.
For official announcements, visit the RBA’s monetary policy decisions page.
For mortgage brokers, the changing environment reinforces the importance of understanding different lending policies, exploring refinancing opportunities and accessing specialist credit support.
At FINSTREET, we believe there are three key areas worth watching.
1. Residential Lending: Exploring Borrowing Capacity Beyond Traditional Banks
Higher interest rates can reduce borrowing capacity, increase mortgage repayments and create additional challenges for borrowers seeking to purchase property or refinance existing loans.
However, traditional bank lending policies do not necessarily reflect every borrower’s circumstances.
Non-bank lending can provide alternative solutions, particularly for borrowers who may not meet conventional bank lending criteria.
Through FINSTREET’s extensive non-bank lending network, mortgage brokers can explore alternative lending options for clients with different financial circumstances.
These may include:
- Alternative income assessment and servicing policies.
- Self-employed borrowers with complex income structures.
- Investors seeking flexible lending solutions.
- Borrowers requiring larger loan amounts or specialised credit assessment.
Depending on individual circumstances and lender policies, alternative servicing approaches may help eligible borrowers achieve greater borrowing capacity.
Rather than relying on a single lender’s assessment criteria, brokers can explore a broader range of solutions to better match their clients’ financial objectives.
2. Easy Refi: Helping Borrowers Review Their Existing Mortgages
As interest rates change, refinancing remains an important consideration for existing mortgage holders.
Some borrowers may be paying higher interest rates with their current lenders or facing challenges refinancing through traditional lending channels.
FINSTREET’s Easy Refi product range provides brokers with alternative refinancing pathways for eligible clients.
Our diversified funding partnerships allow brokers to explore different Easy Refi solutions based on borrowers’ existing mortgage arrangements and financial circumstances.
Depending on the selected product and eligibility criteria, potential benefits may include:
- Simplified refinancing processes.
- Competitive alternative interest rates.
- Opportunities to reduce existing mortgage repayments.
- Access to different refinancing and loan-structuring options.
For eligible borrowers, an appropriate Easy Refi solution may help improve household cash flow and reduce ongoing mortgage costs.
However, refinancing should involve an assessment of interest rates, total borrowing costs, fees, loan terms and the borrower’s long-term financial objectives.
Already have a client with an existing mortgage?
Explore FINSTREET’s Easy Refi solutions and speak with our Credit Team to identify suitable refinancing opportunities.
3. Commercial Lending & Private Credit: The Growing Importance of Specialist Advisory
Higher interest rates also create challenges for commercial property investors, developers and businesses.
Rising funding costs can influence debt servicing, asset valuations, project feasibility and refinancing strategies.
For more complex commercial lending scenarios, accessing finance is only one part of the solution.
Appropriate loan structuring, risk management and a clearly defined exit strategy are equally important.
FINSTREET supports brokers and their clients through a broad range of commercial lending, private credit and specialist financing solutions.
Our experienced team can assist with:
- Commercial property acquisition and refinancing.
- Complex lending scenarios requiring specialist credit assessment.
- Bridging finance and short-term funding requirements.
- Property development and construction funding.
- Tailored financing structures and alternative funding strategies.
Through our specialist lending and credit advisory approach, we work alongside brokers to understand complex client requirements, evaluate available funding options and identify suitable financing structures.
Our objective is to provide brokers with access to additional expertise while supporting their existing client relationships.
Looking Ahead: Preparing Brokers for a Changing Lending Market
A changing interest rate environment requires more than simply finding the lowest available rate.
Borrowers increasingly need access to appropriate lending structures, diverse funding sources and specialist knowledge.
For mortgage brokers, the opportunity is to strengthen their advisory capabilities and develop long-term client relationships.
At FINSTREET, our focus is on empowering brokers through diversified non-bank lending solutions, specialist credit expertise and technology.
Whether your client needs greater borrowing flexibility, an alternative refinancing solution or support with a complex commercial transaction, our team is here to help.
A changing market demands a more prepared broker.
Explore our lending solutions or contact our experienced BDM and Credit Team to discuss your next lending scenario.
FINSTREET — Your Partner in Specialist Non-Bank Lending.
Disclaimer: This article provides general market information only and does not constitute financial or credit advice. All lending solutions are subject to individual assessment, eligibility criteria, lender approval and applicable credit policies. Product availability, rates and terms may change.
Sources and further reading
RBA monetary policy decisions — 2026.
RBA explanation of monetary policy transmission.
ASIC Moneysmart guidance on switching home loans.
RBA background on commercial real estate financing risks, September 2023. Used for general mechanisms, not a September 2026 market forecast.
