About the author

Bernadette is a journalist with years of experience covering topics in macroeconomics, real estate, and lifestyle beats for notable print media organisations. She joined the InfoChoice Group in 2024, bringing her passion for writing stories that help Australians make better decisions about money.


Bernadette's latest articles

Bernadette Lunas

Australia’s total residential real estate value hits a new record

The combined value of Australia's residential real estate has set a new record, climbing to $10.91 trillion in the June quarter of 2024.

10 Sep 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Rising mortgage costs drive more first home buyers towards Home Guarantee Scheme

Around one in three first home buyers across Australia in the 2023 financial year entered the housing market with the support of the Home Guarantee Scheme (H...

09 Sep 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Mixed bag for savers: Banks cuts term deposit rates while few raise offers

September's opening salvo is marked by another series of downward shifts in the term deposit space as more banks cut rates, though a few notable providers bu...

06 Sep 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Australia records worst per capita recession on record, productivity slumps

June quarter national accounts confirmed Australia’s economy grew at its slowest pace - outside of Covid - since the 1991 recession, as soaring cost of...

04 Sep 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Melbourne's median dwelling value dips as Adelaide and Perth surge ahead

Once ranked among the top Australian capitals in median dwelling values, Melbourne has slid below Adelaide and Pert...

02 Sep 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Declining bond yields trigger more mortgage rate cuts this week

Mortgage rates continue to plunge as more smaller lenders follow the lead of major players.

30 Aug 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Understanding CommSec Pocket: A micro-investing app by CommBank

Investing was once only accessible to those with substantial capital. However, micro-investing apps like CommSec Pocket have changed that.

29 Aug 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Understanding CommSec Pocket: A micro-investing app by CommBank

Investing was once only accessible to those with substantial capital. However, micro-investing apps like CommSec Pocket have changed that.

29 Aug 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Energy rebates temper July inflation, but Judo Bank economist warns of potential rebound

The monthly consumer price index (CPI) rose 3.5% over the 12 months to July, slower compared to 3.8% the month prior as the effects of the government's cost-...

28 Aug 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Cost-of-living crisis hits the road: Car loan delinquencies and repossession rise in Australia

Rising car loan delinquencies are exposing the shocking reality that Australia’s vehicle owners are now feeling the fu...

23 Aug 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Term deposits on the chopping block: Big banks lead rate cuts

Term deposit rates continue to slide this week, with the latest drops headlined by two major banks.

23 Aug 2024
Bernadette Lunas

Why you need an emergency fund

Are you prepared for life’s financial surprises? Discover how an emergency fund can be your best defence against unexp...

22 Aug 2024