How Much Can I Borrow on a $80k Salary in Australia?
Updated 31 Aug 2025 · 5–7 min read
Quick answer: On an $80k salary with minimal debts, borrowing power is often around $400k–$520k. With dependants or higher expenses, capacity may fall to roughly $320k–$420k.
What Lenders Consider
- Net income after tax (take-home on $80k is roughly ~$60k/yr, ≈ $5k/mo).
- Living expenses (HEM), which scale with dependants.
- Existing debts and limits (credit cards, BNPL, personal loans).
- Assessment buffer (often ~3% above market rate) applied to test repayments.
Worked Example
- Gross income: $80,000
- Approx. net after tax: $60,000
- Living costs (single, no kids): ~$23,000
- Surplus for repayments: ~$37,000
At a stressed assessment rate, that surplus may support a loan around ~$450,000.
Ways to Lift Your Borrowing Capacity
- Reduce credit card limits and clear personal debts.
- Grow your deposit to bring LVR ≤ 80% (may avoid LMI).
- Review recurring expenses; provide accurate living-costs evidence.
- Consider a joint application if appropriate.
Next step:
Use the Borrowing Power Calculator for a personalised figure, then estimate repayments.
General information only — not financial advice. Ranges are indicative and depend on rates and policy.