How much can I borrow on a $100,000 salary in Australia?

On a $100,000 salary, most Australian lenders estimate borrowing power between $450,000 and $600,000, depending on your expenses, existing debts, and the lender's assessment rate. Use our free calculator for an instant estimate, then talk to a broker for the exact figure.

How do banks calculate borrowing power in Australia?

Lenders assess your gross income, subtract tax, living expenses (using Household Expenditure Measure benchmarks), and existing debt repayments. They then stress-test at typically 3% above the loan rate (APRA buffer) to ensure you can repay if rates rise.

Does a HECS-HELP debt reduce borrowing power?

Yes. Lenders count your compulsory HECS-HELP repayment as a monthly liability, which reduces your serviceable income and therefore your borrowing capacity — typically by $20,000–$50,000 depending on the debt size.

How can I increase my borrowing power?

Reduce credit card limits and existing debts, increase your income (including rental or casual income), lower living expenses, and save a larger deposit. A mortgage broker can also identify lenders with more generous assessment criteria for your specific situation.

Does borrowing power change if I apply jointly?

Yes — a joint application combines both incomes, which significantly increases borrowing capacity. However, both applicants' debts and expenses are also included. In most cases a joint application increases borrowing power substantially.

Borrowing Power Calculator — How Much Can I Borrow?

Your Financial Details

The more accurate your inputs, the closer the estimate

💼 Income

Base Annual Income (before tax)

Please enter your annual income to continue.

Overtime (annual avg)

Bonus / Commission

Overtime & bonus are assessed at 80% by most lenders

Partner's Annual Income (optional)

👨‍👩‍👧 Household

Relationship Status

Single

Couple

Dependants 0

Used to calculate your HEM (minimum living expense benchmark)

💳 Financial Position

Monthly Living Expenses — HEM floor applied if lower than benchmark

Existing Debts (monthly)

Credit Card Limit

Banks count 3% of your credit card limit as monthly debt — even if you never use it

Deposit Available

🏠 Loan Details

Employment Type

Loan Purpose

Maximum Borrowing Power

—

Enter your details and click Calculate

Max Property Value

—

Best Est. Rate

6.14%

LVR

—

Income & Serviceability Breakdown

Gross assessable income —

Estimated net income (after tax) —

Net monthly income —

Monthly surplus after expenses —

Max monthly repayment (85% of surplus) —

Stress test rate (APRA +3% buffer) 9.14% p.a.

🏦 What Lenders Would Offer You

Each lender uses different income shading, assessment rates & DTI limits

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Enter your details above and click
Calculate Borrowing Power to see how lenders compare

Want your exact borrowing power?

This estimate uses industry-standard HEM benchmarks and APRA stress testing. A licensed broker will also factor in your credit history and each lender's live credit policy — giving you a precise, lender-verified figure. Free, no obligation, within 24 hours.

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Disclaimer: These calculations are estimates only and do not constitute financial advice. Actual borrowing capacity varies based on credit history, living expenses (HEM benchmark), and each lender's credit policy. Always consult a licensed mortgage broker or financial adviser before making any financial decisions.