How 9News.com.au readers reacted to first rate rise in 11 years

A long time in the making or another nail in the coffin for living costs?

The decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to lift interest rates yesterday for the first time in 11 years created a storm of opinion over whether enough – or too much – was being done to tackle the soaring cost of living for Australians.

Following a call out to nine.com.au readers the response was equally divided, with all agreeing on one fact: life is getting too expensive and more has to be done.

Mary is a single mother to an 11-month-old and has a mortgage of $620,000. She told 9News.com.au that yesterday’s rate hike will deal a blow to her finances.

“This rate increase will put an enormous strain on my spending as well as trying to save money for a rainy day,” Mary said.

“For the wider community, this hike may mean nothing but being the sole provider for an infant whilst having a massive mortgage and working full time to provide, any further hikes will most likely result in me having to decide whether to sell or move back in with family.

“The cost of living has increased and people are struggling with no pay rises. Our government needs to seriously get their act together.”

The RBA yesterday increased interest rates by 25 basis points to 0.35 per cent. (Graphic: Tara Blancato)

Lyn Pryor, a self-funded retiree from Manly, welcomed the interest in rates and made the point that a hike in the cash rate does not only affect those with home loans.

“We are happy about it as it gives a tiny bit more…

Read more…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *