• What are Term Deposits?

    Term deposits are savings products provided by an Authorised Deposit-taking Institution (ADI) - banks, credit unions or building societies.

    Term deposits provide savers with a relatively straightforward financial product offering higher rates than those offered on regular savings accounts in exchange for making no withdrawals for the agreed term. The rate you choose will remain the same until the deposit matures, unlike other variable rate accounts that fluctuate according to several factors, including the RBA rate.
  • Are Term Deposits protected by the Government?

    A term deposit is a very secure investment, with virtually no risks involved. Term deposit are backed by the Commonwealth government guarantee scheme, protecting up to $1 million at no cost to you. Any deposits above this amount can be covered by a separate guarantee scheme available from the government, but you need to contact your ADI to find out more about accessing this service.
  • Choosing a Term Deposit to suit you

    Term deposits vary greatly, which means there's an account out there for just about anyone. You can choose from a range of terms, lasting a little as 1 month up to 5 years, each offering different rates to reflect. Some ADIs offer consistently competitive rates across all term deposit terms, while others may only have competitive rates for certain terms. It is always best to decide on a term that you are willing (and able) to stick to then shopping around for the best rates. Which4U allows you to compare term deposits from a range of ADIs offering a variety of terms and rates, allowing you to quickly find an account to suit your savings needs.
  • What you should be aware of

    You are generally more likely to earn the most competitive high rates of interest if you agree to tie up your money for a certain period of time. Your deposit Once the initial deposit has been made you cannot usually add to the savings account. If you're planning to open a term deposit you need to be aware that most providers do not allow access to the funds in the specified periods. Those that do allow withdrawals tend to carry penalties which can result in some or all of the interest you accrued being docked. This is why it's best to look at your options based on your financial state before choosing an account. These accounts are ideal for people who have spare money and can afford to lock the money up for a fixed period of time.

    Another feature that makes term deposits unique is that the interest rates are fixed for the agreed duration. Therefore if the RBA base rate interest were to significantly increase within that time the rate offered on these accounts would not change to reflect this. However, this can also work the other way, and if the base rate was to drop which could occur in order to stimulate the economy, the rates will again stay fixed.