Aussies double down on saving, even as some say yes to a few more treats

20 October 2025
Consumer Spending

Are you finding yourself saying yes to that sweet treat again - but still focused on saving and paying down your mortgage? You’re not alone.

The latest NAB Consumer Sentiment Survey reveals that while a few more dollars are being spent on things like eating out and entertainment, most Aussies are still channelling their extra cash into savings accounts or straight onto the mortgage.

The NAB research shows that over the past three months: 

• Almost 1 in 5 who managed to save prioritised paying down their mortgage, with those aged 30 to 49 being the most mortgage focused group.  

• Around half who managed to save money put it straight into a savings or offset account. This was most common among younger Australians (18 - 29), with 61% choosing to boost their savings or offset.

• More than 90% of NAB home loan customers kept their repayments unchanged after the August RBA rate cut - meaning they’re paying down their loans faster and saving thousands in interest over the life of their mortgage.

NAB Executive Sweta Mehra said Australians are managing the balance of cutting back where they can, without missing out on what matters.

“These days, many of us are finding ways to make our money go further. We’re being more thoughtful about when and how we spend - maybe eating out less often, but making those catch-ups with friends a bit more special when we do,” Ms Mehra said. 

“A lot of households are putting those extra dollars towards savings or paying down debt to keep their finances on track, even when things feel tight.  

“We’re seeing more customers putting their savings straight into their home loan or offset account. Many are choosing to keep their repayments high, even when rates come down. That decision can shave years off a mortgage and save thousands in interest. It’s a smart way to get ahead and take charge of your financial future.”