Calculators
Mortgage stress test calculator
Check what your repayments would be if interest rates rose by 1, 2 or 3 percentage points, the same buffer lenders use when approving a loan.
Optional, before tax
Your inputs stay in this browser. They are not sent to RBADay or stored.
Monthly repayment if rates rise
| Rate | Repayment | Extra |
|---|---|---|
| 6.10%Today | $3,636 | — |
| 7.10%+1 pts | $4,032 | +$396 |
| 8.10%+2 pts | $4,444 | +$809 |
| 9.10%+3 pts (APRA buffer) | $4,871 | +$1,235 |
General information and estimates only. Assumes a principal-and-interest loan with interest calculated and repaid monthly at a constant rate, and no fees. Your lender’s calculation, rate changes and fees will change the result. Not financial product advice. Each row keeps the same balance and remaining term at the higher rate.
How to use the result
The table keeps your balance and remaining term the same and recalculates the repayment at each higher rate. Add your household income before tax to see what share of it each repayment would take.
To see the effect of a single RBA move instead, use the rate change calculator, or check what markets expect for the next RBA decision.
Common questions
What is the APRA serviceability buffer?
APRA, which regulates Australian banks, expects lenders to check that new borrowers could still afford repayments if their interest rate were at least 3 percentage points higher. It is a test applied when a loan is approved, not a forecast that rates will rise that far.
What counts as mortgage stress?
A common rule of thumb is that a household is in mortgage stress when repayments take more than 30% of gross (before-tax) income. It is a rough guide: a high-income household may manage a larger share comfortably, while a lower-income household can struggle below it.
What can I do if a rate rise would stretch my budget?
Options include building a buffer in an offset or redraw account while rates are lower, asking your lender for a better rate, refinancing, or speaking to your lender early about hardship arrangements if you expect to fall behind. The National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) offers free, independent financial counselling.