Forget term deposits and buy these ASX dividend shares

With interest rates drifting lower and term deposit returns shrinking again, many income-focused Australians are wondering where to put their cash next.

While deposits offer safety, they rarely offer meaningful long-term returns, especially once inflation takes its slice.

For investors willing to move slightly up the risk curve, the Australian share market has plenty of reliable dividend payers that can deliver stronger income potential, along with the prospect of capital growth.

Three ASX dividend shares that could be good alternatives are named below:

HomeCo Daily Needs REIT (ASX: HDN)

If you are looking for dependable distributions, HomeCo Daily Needs REIT is one of the more attractive options on the market. It owns a high-quality portfolio of convenience-based shopping centres, anchored by major tenants such as the big two supermarket operators, along with pharmacies, medical centres, and essential retail.

These assets tend to hold up well regardless of economic conditions, which is exactly what income investors want. Even better, HomeCo Daily Needs REIT typically locks in long lease agreements with annual rent increases, helping keep its distribution profile consistent.

The consensus estimate is for the company to reward shareholders with a dividend increase to 8.7 cents per share in FY 2026. Based on its current share price of $1.35, this would mean a dividend yield of 6.4%.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

Telstra has long been one of the most reliable ASX dividend shares. As the country’s largest telco, it benefits from stable cash flow generated by mobile, broadband, and network services. These are the kinds of services that Australians rely on every day.

While competition and price wars have created challenges over the years, the telco market appears rational at present and Telstra’s long-term strategy remains focused on higher-margin mobile products, network efficiency, and cost reductions. Its Connected Future 30 plan, which aims to deliver stronger long-term earnings, should be supportive of dividend growth in the coming years.

For now, analysts are expecting a 20 cents per share fully franked dividend in FY 2026. Based on the current Telstra share price of $4.92, this would mean a dividend yield of approximately 4.1%.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

Finally, supermarket giant Woolworths is another defensive dividend option worth considering. Even in tough economic conditions, consumers continue spending on essential groceries, fresh food, and household staples. This gives Woolworths consistent revenue, resilient margins, and significant pricing power.

The company’s strong balance sheet, market-leading position, and scale advantages support its ability to keep returning cash to shareholders.

And while Woolworths may not deliver the highest yield on the ASX, its reliability is what makes it an appealing alternative to low-return term deposits. You get a stable income stream, defensive characteristics, and long-term growth potential if its earnings continue to expand.

The market is expecting a fully franked dividend of 93.2 cents per share in FY 2026. This equates to a 3.2% dividend yield at current prices.

The post Forget term deposits and buy these ASX dividend shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woolworths Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Telstra Group and Woolworths Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended HomeCo Daily Needs REIT. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.