How is my repayment calculated?
Your home loan repayment is calculated using the standard amortisation formula:
Where P is the principal (loan amount), r is the periodic interest rate, and n is the total number of repayments. Each repayment covers that period's interest first, with the remainder reducing your principal.
Monthly vs fortnightly repayments
Switching from monthly to fortnightly repayments is one of the simplest ways to pay off your home loan faster.
Because there are 26 fortnights in a year (not 24), making fortnightly repayments means you effectively make one extra monthly repayment per year. On a $600,000 loan at 6.2% over 30 years, this can save you over $80,000 in interest and shave around 4 years off your loan.
Average home loan rates in Australia (2024–2025)
| Loan Type | Average Rate | Low End | High End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Variable (owner-occupier, P&I) | 6.20% | 5.74% | 7.40% |
| 3-year fixed (owner-occupier, P&I) | 6.05% | 5.59% | 6.89% |
| Variable (investor, P&I) | 6.55% | 5.99% | 7.75% |
Source: RBA Statistics, Canstar. Rates are indicative and change frequently. Always compare current offers.
Principal & Interest vs Interest Only
Principal & Interest (P&I) loans are the most common for owner-occupiers. Each repayment reduces your outstanding balance, meaning you build equity over time and pay less interest overall.
Interest Only (IO) loans are common for investors, particularly during a construction period or when maximising cash flow. You only pay the interest each period — your principal doesn't reduce. After the IO period (typically 5 years), the loan reverts to P&I, which means significantly higher repayments.
Tips to reduce your home loan costs
- ✓Make fortnightly repayments — equivalent to an extra month's repayment per year.
- ✓Use an offset account — savings in your offset account reduce the interest you pay daily.
- ✓Make extra repayments — even $100/month extra can save tens of thousands in interest.
- ✓Refinance regularly — loyalty tax is real. Compare rates every 2–3 years.
- ✓Round up your repayments — if your repayment is $2,847, pay $3,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I borrow for a home loan in Australia? +
What is the current average home loan interest rate in Australia? +
Is fortnightly or monthly repayment better? +
What is an offset account and should I get one? +
What is LMI (Lenders Mortgage Insurance) in Australia? +
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Results assume a constant interest rate and do not account for fees, charges, rate changes, or other loan conditions. Always consult a licensed mortgage broker or financial adviser before making borrowing decisions.