ANZ changes lending policy, increases rates
ANZ has introduced multiple changes to its lending policy, while simultaneously increasing its interest rates.
www.realestatebusiness.com.auHere’s the latest on ANZ investor lending policy changes based on current reporting.
Answer
- ANZ has tightened its investor lending policies in 2026, focusing on how negative gearing is treated for investment properties and updating servicing calculations in light of recent policy developments. This aligns ANZ with broader moves among major lenders amid government changes to negative gearing and housing market considerations.[1][5]
Key details
- Policy shift on negative gearing for investment properties: Post-12 May 2026, ANZ will only apply negative gearing treatment in servicing calculations to investment properties that qualify as new builds. Existing properties purchased before 12 May 2026 retain eligibility, and refinance applications for eligible existing properties and new builds continue to qualify for negative gearing treatment in servicing calculations. This change can affect how much a borrower can borrow under ANZ’s calculator and may impact whether an application remains within the bank’s lending test.[1]
- Implications for borrowing capacity: The revised treatment could reduce borrowing capacity for some investors, particularly those with non-new-build properties, as the servicing assessment becomes more stringent. Brokers may need to supply additional information to support loan eligibility, especially when the loan structure is complex.[1]
- Context with broader market moves: Reporting indicates ANZ’s policy shifts are part of a wider tightening among big banks in response to housing policy developments, with several lenders adjusting affordability metrics and LVR expectations in the period around mid-2026.[5]
Illustrative example
- If an investor owns an existing property acquired before 12 May 2026, that property continues to receive negative gearing treatment for servicing calculations, potentially preserving some borrowing capacity. If the investor purchases a new build after 12 May 2026, that property may also receive negative gearing treatment, subject to qualification, influencing how much can be borrowed. Weighing these rules against an applicant’s portfolio is essential to assess overall borrowing capacity.
What this means for you
- If you’re considering ANZ for an investment loan, prepare to provide documentation clarifying property type (new build vs existing) and ensure your application targets potentially eligible properties to maximize negative gearing in servicing calculations. Consider speaking with a mortgage broker or ANZ lender to understand how your specific portfolio would be treated under the updated rules.[1]
Notes
- Other related coverage from the same period highlights that lender policy adjustments have been part of broader regulatory and market dynamics affecting investor lending, including affordability criteria adjustments and LVR considerations across banks.[6][5]
If you’d like, I can summarize how these changes could affect a specific property purchase by running a quick scenario with hypothetical numbers or help you track key documents to prepare for your ANZ application.