The short version

  • The cash rate target is 4.60% from 30 September 2026, up from 3.60% at the end of 2025. The next RBA decision is due at 2.30pm on 3 November 2026.
  • Savers and retirees holding cash or term deposits may see better returns, but only if their bank or fund actually passes the rise on. Check your rate rather than assuming it.
  • Anyone still carrying a mortgage or investment loan into retirement will feel higher repayments.

Cash inside super and SMSFs

The ATO's SMSF statistics for the June 2026 quarter put total SMSF assets at an estimated $1.107 trillion, with cash and term deposits making up 16% (about $177 billion). That is a lot of money whose return depends on the rate the trustee is getting. A rate rise is a good prompt to check that SMSF cash is sitting in an account that pays a competitive rate, and that the cash level still fits the fund's investment strategy.

Questions worth asking now

  • Is my cash account or term deposit rate in line with current market rates?
  • How much cash do I actually need for the next one to two years of pension payments and spending?
  • Is a loan, including an SMSF limited recourse borrowing arrangement, still comfortable at higher rates?
  • Does my investment mix still match my retirement plans? Higher rates change the trade-off between cash, bonds and shares, but chasing the latest rate is rarely a strategy.

Try the SMSF commercial property calculator to stress-test a borrowing, read is an SMSF right for you, or see our retirement planning in Brisbane page.

Quick answers

What is the RBA cash rate now?

The RBA cash rate target is 4.60%, effective 30 September 2026. The next decision is due on 3 November 2026.

How much SMSF money is held in cash?

ATO statistics for the June 2026 quarter estimate cash and term deposits at 16% of $1.107 trillion in SMSF assets, about $177 billion.

Sources

General advice warning. This article is general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Rules, rates and thresholds change; check the sources above. Consider the relevant PDS and our Financial Services Guide and seek personal advice before acting. FinForce is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 001241242) of Financial Force Pty Ltd, ABN 42 091 425 464, AFSL 238337.

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