The final RBA rate call of 2025 is in… and while the cash rate didn’t move, the tone definitely did.

In our last LIVE RBA & Economic Update for the year, Ben and Evan went deep — and we mean deep — on inflation, energy, wages, the consumer mood, property markets, and what’s shaping up to be a very unpredictable start to 2026.

If you missed the livestream, here’s a couch-friendly wrap-up of the biggest moments.

The RBA Holds Steady — But Leaves the Door Wide Open

No surprises on the headline decision. But the language in the statement told the real story.

Inflation risks have “tilted to the upside”.
Labour markets are still tight.
And the Board is now “live” to moving in either direction next year.

So if you were hoping for clarity… sorry. Not this month.

Ben and Evan unpacked why the RBA is stuck: most of the price pressures we’re seeing are coming from areas interest rates can’t touch — things like government-led costs, regulated sectors, and housing-related pressures.

And that brings us to energy.

Energy costs are still running hot, and when you strip out temporary rebates, the true price increases look even worse. Households have already copped a 37% rise, and the next round of rebate unwinding will hit in 2026. Energy sits at the centre of everything — from cost-of-living stress to inflation to productivity — and both Ben and Evan warned that without a clear plan for cheap, reliable energy, Australia will struggle to compete in a world fuelled by AI and data.

Property Markets Wrap: Strong Finish to 2025

Australia’s property markets had a big year — especially Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Darwin. Most regional markets also outperformed metro areas.

Ben walked through which markets are now at (or near) their cycle peaks, and which ones still have room to run. Supply remains tight, population growth remains strong, and building costs remain high — a recipe that continues to put upward pressure on prices.

Final Thoughts

2026 will reward those who prepare early — not those who wait for perfect clarity.

If you don’t already have your A Team assembled, our award-winning team is here to help. Remember, knowledge is power—but action is what gets results.