Ain't no changes: RBA Board leaves rates at 2.50% at May meeting

The stable Australian dollar and next week's looming 2014/15 federal budget has seen the Reserve Bank of Australia Board keep the official cash rate at a steady 2.50% for the ninth consecutive month.

Governor Glenn Stevens said in a statement that monetary policy remains accommodative. "Interest rates are very low and savers continue to look for higher returns in response to low rates on safe instruments. Credit growth has picked up a little, while dwelling prices have increased significantly over the past year. "

Find your home loan happiness

The booming Australian housing market is beginning to show signs of slowing - big news for first home buyers. With interest rates at record lows and banks eager to win over new customers, now is a good time to check out the best in the bustling Australian home loan market.

This month, UBank tempts shopaholics with a special gift card offer of $1,961 for loans greater than $350,000 (as long as you apply before the end of May). Loan.com.au claims the title of lowest variable rate at 4.54% and the top fixed rate home loan for 1 year goes to IMB’s 3.99%.

Compare interest rates at our home loan hub, it's easy to navigate and you'll discover the standout home loans available on the market now.

Get the best of both worlds! Consider splitting your home loan, you'll receive the benefit of the variable interest when rates fall and and the security of the fixed rate if rates rise. Keep in mind, often financial providers will provide better fixed rates for those that fix a larger percent of their home loan.

For more advice, give our free home loan negotiator service a buzz by calling 13 MOZO (13 6696).

Serious saving isn't impossible

Ambitious savers forget long term deposit accounts (for now) as you'll struggle to receive a decent return on your savings. Instead check out some of the high interest savings accounts in the market that still offer competitive interest rates above the 4.00% mark.

The ME Bank Online Savings Account has a dazzling 4.60% bonus interest rate for the first 5 months, provided it's linked to a ME everyday transaction account. UBank USaver with Ultra's eye-catching rate of 4.37% is yours as long as you deposit $2,000 a month into the account. ING Direct's 4.35% for the first 4 months and Bankwest TeleNet Saver's impressive 4.30% introductory rate for the first six months are also worth a look.

Compare saving interest rates with our easy to use saving comparison tool.