United KingdomAustralia's 5% deposit scheme, designed to assist first-time homebuyers, has seen nearly 1,500 properties purchased through the program later converted into investment assets, according to new data. The scheme allows buyers to access 95% financing with government guarantees, originally aimed at low-income individuals. However, the program has also benefited higher-income earners, particularly those earning over $300,000 annually, after a policy change in late 2025 removed income restrictions. Critics, including Greens representative Barbara Pocock, argue the scheme risks benefiting wealthier individuals rather than supporting first-time buyers. While the government maintains that homeowners who transition out of the scheme retain the right to manage their property as they wish, concerns remain about potential misuse and lack of oversight. Housing Australia monitors transactions and property usage to ensure compliance with the scheme's intent.
Bias read (Center): The article presents information about the 5% deposit scheme without overtly endorsing or criticizing either side. It includes perspectives from both critics (Greens representative) and industry representatives (mortgage brokers and banks), while maintaining neutrality in its framing. The focus is a
