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Can You Refinance to Pay Off Debt

Written by Del Wiggins | 7 June 2026

Can You Refinance to Pay Off Debt?

If you’re managing multiple debts on top of your home loan, it can start to feel overwhelming. Credit cards, personal loans and business expenses can quickly add up. That’s why many Australians look at ways to refinance to consolidate debt.

For self-employed borrowers, tradies and small business owners, simplifying repayments can make a real difference to cash flow and deliver financial clarity.

What Does It Mean to Refinance Debt?

Refinancing involves replacing your existing home loan with a new one, often with different terms or a different lender. When used for debt consolidation, refinancing allows you to combine multiple debts into one loan, such as your mortgage.

Instead of juggling multiple repayments, you roll them into a single loan. This may include:

    • Credit card balances
    • Personal loans
    • Car finance
    • Other unsecured debts.

This approach can make your finances easier to manage and may reduce the pressure of high-interest repayments.

How Refinancing to Pay Off Debt Works

When you refinance to pay off debt, your new home loan increases to cover your existing liabilities. This means you end up with one loan and one loan repayment rather than multiple smaller loans.

Because home loans generally have lower interest rates than unsecured debts, this strategy can help:

    • Reduce your monthly outgoings
    • Consolidate multiple repayments into one
    • Improve short-term cash flow
    • Simplify your overall financial commitments

For borrowers with variable or fluctuating income, this structure can create more consistency month to month.

The Benefits and Trade-Offs

While refinancing can be a useful tool, it’s important to weigh both the advantages and the potential downsides.

Potential Benefits

    • Lower interest rates compared to credit cards and personal loans
    • One regular repayment instead of several
    • Improved cash flow
    • Greater visibility and control over your finances.

Things to Consider

    • Your loan term may increase, extending how long you stay in debt
    • You may pay more interest over time, especially if short-term debts are folded into a long-term mortgageYou are securing previously unsecured debts against your home
    • There may be fees associated with refinancing.

Debt consolidation works best when it is paired with a clear plan to reduce your overall debt rather than just reshaping it.

Is It Suitable for Self-Employed Borrowers?

For self-employed Australians, income can fluctuate depending on workload, contracts or seasonal demand. Managing multiple debt repayments during quieter periods can be challenging.

Refinancing for debt consolidation may be a suitable option if:

    • You want more predictable repayments
    • High-interest debt is affecting your cash flow
    • You’re looking to simplify your financial structure

As with any loan, it’s important to ensure the new repayment arrangement remains sustainable over the long term. Being realistic about what you can comfortably afford is key.

Exploring Your Refinancing Options

Choosing the right structure is key when you refinance. Features such as flexible repayments or offset accounts can help you stay in control while reducing your balance.

Rate Money offers solutions designed for self-employed Australians, helping you refinance in a way that supports both your personal and business goals.

Learn more about your options:
https://ratemoney.com.au/existing-loan-refinancing 

Or get in touch with one of our home loan specialist:
https://ratemoney.com.au/our-branches 

A Smarter Way to Manage Debt

Refinancing to manage debt may be a practical option, particularly if it helps reduce financial pressure and makes repayments simpler to manage.

The focus should be on finding a structure that suits your cash flow while supporting your longer-term financial position.

Ready to Simplify Your Debt?

If you’re considering whether to refinance to pay off debt, getting the right advice can help you make a confident decision.

Speak with Rate Money to explore refinancing options that suit your situation and help you take control of your finances.

Visit https://ratemoney.com.au/existing-loan-refinancing to get started or call 1300 936 668.

References

This content is general in nature and does not constitute credit, financial or taxation advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances and seek independent professional advice before making any financial decisions.  

This information is general in nature and does not constitute credit advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider your own circumstances before acting on this information

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