The average age for first home buyers in Australia has reached a new high of 33 years old, according to the most recent 2023 data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. This number continues an upward trend over the past decade, up from 30 in 2012 and 32 just two years ago in 2021. Driving factors behind the rising average age include: Ongoing housing affordability challenges, especially in Sydney and Melbourne where prices remain high Persistently high levels of student debt delaying Australians' ability to save for a deposit An increase in the number of Australians renting for longer periods before buying their first home While 33 is the current national average, there are some differences across the counties: In Adelaide, the average age remains lower at 30 In Melbourne and Sydney, the average age has risen to 35 For Australians hoping to enter the housing market sooner, experts emphasise starting to save early, getting pre-approved for a home loan, and being flexible on location or property type. Making some compromises can help first home buyers purchase at a younger age.