December snapshot: Term deposit rates slashed in wake of RBA cut

By Tara McCabe · · 2 min read
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In November another Reserve Bank cash rate cut occured, and since then Mozo has counted an astounding 785 reductions to term deposits. The average cut was 13.7 basis points and the average rate for a one-year term fell 11 basis points to 0.65% p.a.*

Now while it’s clear that interest rates for term deposits aren’t what they were a few years ago, there are still solid reasons to put your money in one. These won’t be the same reasons as they were when interest rates were high, but with a changing financial landscape, now might be the time to rethink motivations.

Time to go 50:50?

As interest rates plummet toward zero, it’s time to stop and think about where to stash that extra cash. Yes, you might be able to get a more competitive savings rate right now, but consider that Mozo counted 44 cuts to ongoing savings rates in November and 16 cuts to introductory savings rates. Introductory rates were cut on average a significant 23 basis points.*

With a term deposit you can lock your money away and fix your interest rate. Of course, the downside of that is that you won’t be able to access that money for the duration of the term. Our Mozo experts suggest considering a fifty-fifty approach. That is taking advantage of more competitive savings rates while they last, but also stashing half your rainy day fund in a term deposit.

Term deposit rates above 1

While term deposit rates have fallen dramatically in the past year, there is still time to lock one in above 1%. Currently Judo Bank dominates the longer terms in the Mozo database, its interest rates are:

  • Judo Bank 2-year term - 1.30% p.a.
  • Judo Bank 3-year term - 1.30% p.a.
  • Judo Bank 4-year term - 1.20% p.a.
  • Judo Bank 5-year term - 1.30% p.a.

Or if you’re looking for a slightly shorter commitment, BankVic offers a one-year term deposit with an interest rate of 1.05% p.a.

Want to start searching for a term to put your money in? Check out Mozo’s compare term deposits page for more options, or take a look at the deals below for a quick scan of what’s on offer.

Compare term deposit interest rates

Mozo may receive payment if you click the products below. We don’t compare the entire market, but you can search our database of 101 term deposits.
Last updated 27 July 2024 Important disclosures
  • Mozo Expert Choice Badge
    Term Deposit

    5.25% p.a.
    6 months

    $1,000

    Yes up to $250,000

    Great rates and incentives incl. 0.10% added loyalty bonus at renewal. Option to have interest paid to another bank. Winner of the Mozo Experts Choice Awards 2024^ for Term Deposits.

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  • SMSF Term Deposit

    5.25% p.a.
    6 months

    $1,000

    Yes up to $250,000

    Apply digitally in minutes and manage your SMSF Term Deposit. Flexible cash flow management with three interest payment frequencies that suit you: monthly, yearly, or at maturity. Choose from terms of 3 months up to 5 years. No application or monthly account fees but eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. Only accessible to SMSFs with two or up to four individual trustees or one corporate trustee.

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    Details
  • Term Deposit - Online only

    5.15% p.a.
    6 months

    $1,000

    Yes up to $250,000

    Looking for returns that return? Invest as little as $1,000 or as much as $1,000,000. Apply online today in as little as 5 minutes. Protected by the Australian Government’s Financial Claims Scheme up to $250,000.

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    Details
  • Term Deposit

    3.70% p.a.
    6 months

    $5,000

    Yes up to $250,000

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    Details
  • Term Deposit

    4.25% p.a.
    1 year

    $5,000

    Yes up to $250,000

    No set up, monthly service or management fees & choose to invest from $5,000 or more

    Compare
    Find out more
    Details

*Averages and rates correct as of 30 November 2020.

* Different interest rates apply to different amounts or different interest payment frequencies.

^See information about the Mozo Experts Choice Term Deposit Awards

Mozo provides general product information. We don't consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs and we aren't recommending any specific product to you. You should make your own decision after reading the PDS or offer documentation, or seeking independent advice.

While we pride ourselves on covering a wide range of products, we don't cover every product in the market. If you decide to apply for a product through our website, you will be dealing directly with the provider of that product and not with Mozo.

Today's term deposit rates