How Much Can I Borrow on a $70,000 Salary in Australia? | Esteb and Co
general 2026-01-18 • 3 min read

How Much Can I Borrow on a $70,000 Salary in Australia?

Navigating the property market can be daunting, especially when you're trying to determine how much you can borrow based on your income. If you're earning a $70,000 salary, you may be wondering what your borrowing capacity is and how to optimise it. This guide will walk you through the key factors Australian lenders consider, the common pitfalls to avoid, and how Esteb and Co can assist you in securing the best mortgage deal.

How Much Can I Borrow on a $70,000 Salary in Australia?

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Understanding Borrowing Capacity on a $70,000 Salary

Your borrowing capacity is influenced by a variety of factors, not just your income. Lenders assess your financial situation comprehensively, considering aspects such as your current expenses, existing debts, and credit history. On a $70,000 salary, your borrowing potential can vary significantly depending on these factors.

Key Factors Influencing Your Borrowing Power

Income and Expenses

Lenders calculate your borrowing capacity by evaluating your entire financial picture. A $70,000 salary is a good starting point, but they will also consider your monthly expenses, including rent, utilities, and other commitments. Typically, Australian lenders might allow you to borrow approximately 4 to 5 times your annual salary, suggesting a potential borrowing range of $280,000 to $350,000. However, this is a general guideline and can differ based on your personal financial situation.

Existing Debts

If you have existing debts such as personal loans, credit card balances, or car loans, these will impact how much you can borrow. Lenders generally deduct these liabilities from your disposable income when calculating your loan eligibility. It's crucial to manage and, if possible, reduce your existing debts before applying for a mortgage to maximise your borrowing capacity.

Credit Score

A healthy credit score can significantly influence your borrowing ability and the interest rates offered to you. Regularly check your credit report for any discrepancies and work on improving your score by paying bills on time and reducing outstanding debts.

Interest Rates and Loan Terms

The interest rate and term of the loan you choose will also affect how much you can borrow. Lower interest rates mean lower monthly repayments, allowing you potentially to borrow more. It's essential to shop around for competitive rates and consider fixed versus variable rate loans.

Practical Tips to Maximise Your Borrowing Potential

1. Reduce Unnecessary Expenses: Trim down any non-essential expenses to increase your disposable income, which can enhance your borrowing capacity. 2. Improve Your Credit Score: Pay off outstanding debts and ensure timely payments to boost your credit score.

3. Save for a Larger Deposit: A larger deposit reduces the loan amount you need and may help you avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

4. Seek Professional Advice: Consulting a mortgage broker can help you understand different loan products and identify the most suitable options for your circumstances.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overestimating Your Income: Ensure you provide accurate income documentation to avoid complications in your loan application.
  • Ignoring Other Fees: Consider additional costs like stamp duty, legal fees, and ongoing maintenance costs when budgeting for your home.
  • Choosing the Wrong Loan Type: Not all loans are created equal; selecting the wrong type can lead to higher costs in the long run.

How Esteb and Co Can Help

At Esteb and Co, we specialise in providing personalised mortgage advice tailored to your unique financial situation. Our experienced brokers work with a wide range of lenders to find competitive loan options that align with your needs. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to refinance, we're here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and informed mortgage journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does my credit score affect my borrowing capacity?

A: A higher credit score can enhance your borrowing capacity by qualifying you for lower interest rates and better loan terms.

Q: Can I borrow more if I have a larger deposit?

A: Yes, a larger deposit can increase your borrowing potential by reducing the loan-to-value ratio (LVR) and potentially eliminating LMI.

Q: Are there any government schemes that can help me as a first-time buyer?

A: Yes, schemes like the First Home Owner Grant and the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme can assist with your home purchase in Australia.

Q: How do interest rates impact my borrowing capacity?

A: Lower interest rates reduce your monthly repayments, potentially increasing the amount you can borrow.

Q: What expenses should I consider besides the mortgage?

A: Consider costs like stamp duty, legal fees, council rates, and property maintenance when planning your budget.

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Ricky Esteb - Licensed Mortgage Broker
Richard (Ricky) Esteb
Licensed Mortgage Broker & Founder
Credit Rep #574071 ACN 681 636 056 83+ Lender Panel

With direct experience helping Australians secure home loans, car finance, and business funding, Ricky founded Esteb and Co to bring transparency and technology to mortgage broking.

✓ Verified & Last Reviewed: 2026-01-18 | Content meets ASIC regulatory requirements