02/09/2026
Fresh on the blog: what your HECS debt is really doing to your borrowing power: https://hsagrowthpartners.com.au/how-hecs-debt-affects-borrowing-power/
Short version โ lenders treat it as an ongoing commitment, and it can shave a surprising amount off what you're able to borrow. But it doesn't automatically shut the door, and how much it matters depends on your income, your repayments and which lender you go to.
Before you rush to pay it down (or panic about it), have a read. There's more nuance than most people expect.