The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has reported that its digital home loan channel is now the fastest growing application channel, with first-time home buyers showing a significant shift towards online loan applications.
According to an official statement released on 3 November 2025, Australians in their twenties are the fastest-growing demographic for online home loan applications. Meanwhile, those in their thirties represent the largest share of digital home loan applicants.
CBA noted that first home buyers, traditionally inclined towards face-to-face interactions when applying for loans, are now embracing digital solutions. Marco Meneguzzi, Executive General Manager of Home Buying, explained: “First home buyers have historically preferred in-person experiences, but we’re seeing a marked shift. Much like their approach to everyday shopping, they are now applying the same digital habits to significant life decisions, such as purchasing a home.”
In the face of rising home prices, digital channels are playing an increasingly vital role in securing home loans. CBA also highlighted the strong growth in Australian home prices, which recorded their biggest monthly rise since June 2023 with a 1.1% increase in October. The annual growth rate now stands at 6.1%, according to CBA’s estimates.
Belinda Allen, CBA’s Head of Australian Economics, stated, “We expected a 6% rise in home prices by the end of the year, and we’ve already met that target. Although momentum may slow due to sticky inflation and the likelihood of no further interest rate cuts, we still anticipate further price increases.”
The bank also reported a significant shortage of listings in key cities such as Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide, where homes in Perth are selling on average in just 12 days—well below the five-year average.