What is Fixed vs Variable Rate?

The terms 'fixed rate home loan' and 'variable rate home loan' refer to the two most common types of home loan rates in Australia. The interest rate is the key difference between the two. When you take out a fixed rate home loan, the interest rate is fixed for a set period of time, whereas when you take out a variable rate home loan, the interest rate can fluctuate, going up or down depending on your lender's decisions. A variable rate loan benefits borrowers in a declining interest.