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RBA Meeting Dates 2026: Key Dates for Interest Rate Decisions

Chat to us to check if you can save money after every RBA rate change
In 2026, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will hold eight board meetings to review the economy and decide if the official cash rate should change. These meetings help set interest rates for home loans, business lending, and the wider Australian economy.
 
Below are the scheduled RBA meeting dates for 2026. After each meeting, we’ll update this page with the latest cash rate decision and key takeaways.

2026 RBA Meeting Dates:

  • 2–3 February 2026

    At its first board meeting of 2026, the Reserve Bank of Australia increased the official cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.85%. This move marks the first rate rise in over two years and comes as inflation remains above the RBA’s target range, prompting the Board to tighten monetary policy to help bring price pressures back toward the 2–3% band.

     

  • 16–17 March 2026
    The RBA increased the official cash rate by 25 basis points, signalling continued inflationary pressure and a more cautious outlook for rate cuts.

  • 4–5 May 2026
    At May’s meeting, the RBA decided to increase the rate for the third consecutive time by 25 basis points, bringing the official cash rate to 4.35%.

  • 15–16 June 2026
    At the last RBA meeting in June 2026, the board decided to leave the official cash rate unchanged at 4.35%.

  • 3–4 August 2026
    Decision: To be announced

  • 14–15 September 2026
    Decision: To be announced

  • 2–3 November 2026
    Decision: To be announced

  • 7–8 December 2026
    Decision: To be announced
The RBA moved to an eight-meeting structure in 2024, reducing the frequency from 11 meetings per year. This change allows the board more time to analyse incoming economic data and assess the impact of previous interest rate decisions.
Each meeting runs over two days, with the cash rate decision released at 2:30 pm (AEDT/AEST) on the second day.

Key Economic Data Considered by the RBA

Inflation (CPI & Core Inflation)
Headline CPI and trimmed mean inflation are key to the RBA’s goals, with a target range of 2–3% over the medium term.
Employment & Wage Growth
The RBA uses unemployment rates, job growth, and wage trends to judge how tight the job market is and whether there are inflation pressures.
GDP Growth
Economic growth data signals whether the economy is expanding or slowing, influencing whether policy should be stimulatory or restrictive.
Consumer & Business Confidence
Confidence surveys provide forward-looking insight into spending, investment, and economic momentum.
Household Spending & Retail Sales
Trends in consumer spending help show how interest rate changes are affecting the real economy.
Housing Market Conditions
The RBA keeps an eye on property prices, housing supply, lending, and construction to spot any risks to financial stability.
Global Economic Developments
International factors like U.S. Federal Reserve policy, commodity prices, and global growth also affect Australia’s monetary policy.
Exchange Rate Movements
The value of the Australian dollar changes import prices, exports, and inflation results.

Staying informed about these dates is essential for anticipating potential changes in interest rates and understanding the RBA’s economic outlook.

To better understand where interest rates may head next, read our 2026 interest rate predictions for Australia, including forecasts from major banks and leading economists.

After every rate change, assess if refinancing can help you save money or secure better loan terms. However, weighing the costs, comparing options, and time it strategically is essential. 

Need expert advice? Contact us today to explore your refinancing options!

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