Changed jobs after pre-approval. Does the old limit still apply?

The ABS reported that Australia's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.5% in July 2026, while employment fell by 15,800 people. That is useful national context, but it does not determine one borrower's loan result.

A home-loan pre-approval is based on the financial information and lender rules available at the time. Moneysmart says it usually lasts three to six months. It is not an unconditional promise that the same amount will remain available after your circumstances change.

After a job change, update the file

Income or expenses — provide updated figures if your pay, regular costs or commitments have changed.

Employment type — permanent, casual, contract and self-employed income may require different evidence and assessment.

Timing — confirm the pre-approval expiry date, amount and conditions before relying on it for a purchase.

ANZ advises applicants to tell the lender if income, expenses or employment type changes during the application process. A change does not automatically mean a decline, but it can affect the evidence required or the amount available.

Three useful checks

Change in Circumstances — new information that may affect the original assessment.

Employment Type — how the work and income arrangement is classified for evidence and policy purposes.

Reassessment — a fresh review of the amount, evidence or conditions after circumstances change.

Before you commit

Tell the lender or broker about the change, supply the updated documents requested, and obtain confirmation that the amount and conditions still apply. Do not treat an old pre-approval amount as final approval.

Sources

Australian Bureau of Statistics — Labour Force, Australia, July 2026

Moneysmart — Buying a house

ANZ — Understand the home loan application process

General information only. This is not financial advice. Loan options and eligibility depend on your personal income, liabilities, assets and lender assessment criteria.