Is a mortgage always a 30-year loan?

No. In Australia, many mortgages are set up over 25 to 30 years, but shorter terms are possible. The term is simply the length of time agreed for repayment. A shorter term usually means higher monthly repayments, while a longer term spreads the cost over more years.

Can you change the term of a mortgage later?

In some cases, yes — but it typically requires formally changing the loan. That may involve refinancing or renegotiating with the lender. It is not something that adjusts automatically if your circumstances change.

Does building equity mean I can always access it?

Not necessarily. Equity is the difference between what you owe and what the property is worth. Accessing it usually requires a loan structure that allows redraw or a new loan arrangement. Accessing equity also increases the debt again.

Is a longer term always more expensive?

A longer term usually results in more total interest being paid because interest is charged for more years. However, it can reduce the size of the monthly repayment. The trade-off is between monthly pressure and total cost over time.

What happens if my income changes after I take out a mortgage?

The agreed repayment does not automatically reduce if income falls. Unless the loan is formally changed, the same amount is due each month. That is why the stability of income matters when taking on a long-term commitment.

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