In this month’s Finder RBA Cash Rate Survey™, 34 experts and economists weighed in on future cash rate moves and other issues relating to the state of the economy.

Almost all experts (91%, 31/34) correctly predicted the outcome, bringing the cash rate to 3.60%.

Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder, said all eyes are now on the banks.

“Following recent rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), lenders are under immense pressure to pass the savings on to customers. So far, most have passed on the cuts in full.

“Experts are forecasting more rate cuts, which could change things. Lenders might start to pull back and offer smaller cuts to customers, as we observed during the last round of cuts.

“In a competitive market, lenders are fighting for business, which is a good opportunity for you to review your home loan.

“If your current mortgage rate is higher than 5.5%, you may be able to find a better deal.”

The suburbs* that should now be affordable for the average Australian (following three rate cuts)

Following three 25-basis-point rate cuts from the RBA in 2025, Finder analysis reveals the suburbs where house and unit values are now affordable.

The average single Australian can now feasibly afford a place for $570,000 or less and the average Australian household with two incomes can look at suburbs where average prices are under $1,167,000.

In VIC, the median house in Wyndham Vale and Wodonga is now affordable for the average Australian.

For a couple with two average incomes, a house in Coburg is now affordable in VIC.

In NSW, a couple with two average incomes can now afford a house in Oran Park, Marsden Park, Glenmore Park, and Leppington.

Following three rate cuts from the RBA, the average Aussie on a single income can now afford a house in Kirwan in QLD.

The average Aussie on a single income in WA can now afford a house in suburbs including Armadale and Mandurah.

When it comes to units, the average Australian on a single income can now afford suburbs in Bankstown, Penrith, and Auburn in NSW, and South Yarra and Brunswick in VIC.

Australian couples with two incomes can now afford a unit in suburbs including Chatswood, St Leonards, Pyrmont, and Maroubra in NSW, and Burleigh Heads in QLD.

Cooke said rate cuts make mortgages more affordable, and it’s encouraging to see more suburbs fall within reach for buyers.

“Even with a lower rate, you’ll still need a hefty deposit.

“If lower borrowing costs drive increased market activity – as they have in the past – rising property prices and higher deposit requirements could ultimately outweigh the benefit of cheaper repayments.”

“Last month, the board needed further evidence that inflation was on the decline and decided to play it safe with a hold. With new data confirming the decline of core inflation to 2.7% from the 12 months leading to June, I believe the board members may be more confident about a cut.”