The weekly round-up of the biggest news stories from across Momentum Media’s property brands from the week ending 14 August.
To compile this list, not only do we consider the week’s most-read stories and the news that matter most to you, but we also curate it to include stories from our sister brands that also have an impact on the Australian property landscape.
Mortgage slump spreads across every state and age group
Equifax, the major global consumer credit reporting agency, has recorded a fall in Australian mortgage demand for the fourth consecutive month, with July’s decline extending across every state and all borrower age groups.
LRBA changes to curb supply as ban takes effect
The Housing Industry Association (HIA), the national peak body for Australia’s residential building industry, has warned the new ban on self-managed super fund (SMSF) borrowing for residential property could substantially cut new-home supply.
Housing industry urges rethink of SMSF borrowing ban
Australia’s housing industry has released a statement urging the government to allow SMSF borrowing for new homes until the restrictions are independently assessed.
Borrowing capacity now key concern for investors
As property investors navigate the second half of 2026, many have become more cautious about the market, with declining borrowing capacity shifting sentiment.
RBA flags ‘sharp’ fall in new housing commitments
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), in its August Statement on Monetary Policy, has warned of a “sharp” recent decline in new housing loan commitments, led by investors retreating amid higher rates, weakening housing conditions, and property-tax changes.
Landmark NSW court case tests legality of third-party trust accounts
A landmark NSW court battle over third-party trust accounting has raised fresh questions about the legality of outsourcing trust funds and whether the model creates new risks or could help prevent theft.
RBA reveals latest cash rate decision
The Reserve Bank Monetary Policy Board has announced its August cash rate decision, as it works to tackle above-target inflation.
Government should ‘swallow pride’ on budget, says FBAA
The Finance Brokers Association of Australia has urged the federal government to reverse its housing tax reforms after new data showed national rents climbed to a record high in the June quarter.
Amount of 5% deposit properties converted to investments revealed
Fresh data from Housing Australia has confirmed that a small share of homes purchased under the federal government’s 5 per cent Deposit Scheme have been converted into investments.
[Related: Hot Property: The biggest property headlines from the week 3–7 August]
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