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Rate shock: What does the March rate hike mean for your portfolio?

19 MAR 2026 • By Reporter • 2 min read • Investor Strategy
The Reserve Bank of Australia’s latest cash rate hike is putting renewed pressure on property investors: slashing borrowing power, driving up repayments, and putting once-reliable strategies under renewed pressure. So, just how vulnerable is your portfolio?
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On 17 March, the Reserve Bank of Australia lifted the cash rate by 25 basis poins, marking the latest move in its ongoing effort to manage inflation: an adjustment that continues to reshape the property investment landscape.

From shrinking borrowing capacity to rising mortgage repayments, the pressure is building, and strategies that worked in previous conditions may need to be reassessed in light of changing market dynamics.

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Join SPI director Phil Tarrant and managing editor Liam Garman live on YouTube at 09:30am AEDT as they break down the March rate hike and what it means for investors moving forward.

They’ll dive into:

 
 
  • What the latest decision really means for property investors.
  • How portfolios could be impacted or protected.
  • Whether it’s time to rethink your investment strategy.
  • If higher rates could trigger a lift in listings as owners come under financial pressure.
  • How borrowing capacity is shifting, and the practical steps investors should consider next.

Join the team for a special live show as they analyse, unpack, and discuss all things property investment in the current rate environment.

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just getting started, the Smart Property Investment Show delivers the insights, strategies, and real-world tactics you need to navigate your portfolio with confidence.

Get your questions ready, the team will answer them live.

Live stream on YouTube at 09:30am AEDT.