Calculate returns on Australian term deposits. Compare banks, terms, and interest payment frequencies. Tax on interest included.
| Item | Value |
|---|
Term deposits are APRA-regulated deposits with the Financial Claims Scheme (FCS) guaranteeing up to $250,000 per person per ADI (bank, building society, credit union). Interest earned is taxable income in the year received (or for terms over 12 months, in the year earned).
A term deposit is a savings product where you lock money with a bank or financial institution for a fixed period (the term) at a guaranteed interest rate. In exchange for restricting access to your funds, you receive a higher interest rate than a standard savings account. Australian term deposits are protected under the Financial Claims Scheme (FCS) up to $250,000 per institution.
| Term | Typical Rate Range | $50,000 Interest Earned | After 30% Tax (~30% marginal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 months | 4.6–5.0% p.a. | ~$575–$625 | ~$388–$422 |
| 6 months | 4.8–5.2% p.a. | ~$1,200–$1,300 | ~$810–$878 |
| 12 months | 4.9–5.4% p.a. | ~$2,450–$2,700 | ~$1,654–$1,823 |
| 24 months | 4.5–5.0% p.a. | ~$4,556–$5,125 (compound) | ~$3,075–$3,459 |
| Feature | Term Deposit | High-Interest Savings Account |
|---|---|---|
| Rate (June 2026) | 4.8–5.5% p.a. | 5.0–5.2% p.a. (with conditions) |
| Rate certainty | Locked for full term | Variable — can change anytime |
| Access to funds | Locked (early exit penalty) | Instant |
| Government guarantee | Yes — FCS up to $250,000 | Yes — FCS up to $250,000 |
| Best for | Funds definitely not needed for 3-24 months | Emergency fund, ongoing saving |
When your term deposit matures, most banks automatically roll it over at the current rate for the same term — unless you instruct otherwise. The rollover rate on the day of maturity may be higher or lower than your original rate. Always diary your maturity date and compare rates across institutions before the automatic rollover — many Australians leave money in rolled-over term deposits at suboptimal rates for years.
Are term deposits safe in Australia?
Yes. Term deposits with APRA-regulated banks, credit unions, and building societies are protected by the Australian Government's Financial Claims Scheme (FCS) up to $250,000 per person per institution. This means even if the bank fails, your deposit is guaranteed by the government up to that limit — the same protection applies to a small bank as a major bank.
Can I withdraw a term deposit early?
Yes, but it incurs a penalty. Early withdrawal typically reduces your interest rate — banks commonly apply a reduction of 0.5-2% p.a. to the interest earned on the days held, and some charge an administrative fee. If you may need funds before maturity, keep them in a high-interest savings account rather than a term deposit.
Is term deposit interest taxable in Australia?
Yes. Interest from term deposits is assessable income and must be declared in your tax return in the year it is received (or credited to your account). It is taxed at your marginal rate. On a 30% marginal rate, a 5% term deposit effectively earns 3.375% after tax. For deposits over 12 months, interest may be declared when received even if the term hasn't ended.
What happens when my term deposit matures?
Most banks automatically roll over the deposit at the then-current rate for the same term. Crucially, the rollover rate may be very different from your original rate. You should receive a notification 14-30 days before maturity. Use this window to compare rates at other institutions and either instruct your bank to change terms or move the funds entirely.