29/10/2026
Where the RBA cash rate stands as of today, 29th October 2026.
Where the rate is now
The cash rate is 4.60%. The RBA lifted it by 0.25% on 29 September. That was the fourth rise in 2026 and took the rate to its highest level since late 2011. The board vote was unanimous. The board said inflation is still too high and it may raise the rate further if needed.
Why rates are rising:
Higher global energy costs from the Middle East conflict are a major driver. Electricity bill rebates are also ending, so power prices are climbing. Cotality estimates the four rises this year have cut average borrowing capacity by almost $90,000.
Today’s inflation numbers:
The ABS released September quarter inflation today. Headline inflation rose to 4.3% a year, up from 4.0% in August. Underlying (trimmed mean) inflation is about 3.6% to 3.7%. Both are well above the RBA’s 2% to 3% target. Fuel is up 23.6% over the year, and electricity is up 12.8%. Quarterly underlying inflation came in at 1.0%, above the RBA’s 0.8% forecast. Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser said the numbers are too high.
What happens next
The next RBA decision is Tuesday 3 November, Melbourne Cup day. After today’s figures, markets put the chance of a 0.25% rise at about 80% to 90%. ANZ, Westpac and CBA now all expect a rise to 4.85%. CBA had expected a hold until today. Most economists then expect the RBA to hold over summer. Westpac warns that February carries a risk of one more rise. CBA has early cuts pencilled in for August and November 2027, but that depends on inflation falling.
What it means for your clients
A 0.25% rise adds about $97 a month to a $600,000, 30-year principal and interest loan at 6.00%. Use this as a rough guide only. Lenders set their own rates and timing.
Practical steps you can take :
If you have any questions, email us or call us to discuss your scenario.
Review pre-approvals if your approval has not converted to final approval.
Understand offset accounts and extra repayments as a buffer.
For fixed-rate questions, discuss the trade-off between certainty and break costs. Avoid predicting rates.