Small Loans Australia :: Articles

The Truth Behind Payday Loans

What should you know about the reality of payday loans?

The Truth Behind Payday Loans
There’s a lot been said about payday loans. Many claim that the interest rates charged are outrageous. Others say that they are the only source of finance available for those with less than perfect credit score. There is a bit of truth in both claims but there is much more to payday loans than meets the eyes.

A Simple Concept

When Pay Day Loans first appeared in the finance industry, they came to fill a gap not covered by any other financial product.

The original idea which remains in most of the loan products of this kind is to provide a small amount of money, usually up to half of the borrower’s wage for a short term (till pay day) at the end of which the money is reimbursed plus a fee or an amount of interests.

This was a simple and speedy way to solve a temporary lack of funds.

Traditional personal loans took too much time to be approved because there were too many credit examinations to be done.

The whole concept was extremely simple: A small amount, a short term, fast approval.

Debt Stressed?
Image for Debt Stressed?If you're struggling to pay your debts and covering living expenses, we're here to help. Through our national panel of Debt Management specialists, we can help customers with $10k or more in debt by consolidating your existing loans, stopping Debt collectors from contacting you and re-negotiating repayments on your terms!

How do lenders get a return on such small amounts?

Even simpler, the interest rate charged is considerably higher. The high return in terms of percentages also came to justify the high risk involved in these transactions for the lender.

Since there are no credit checks whatsoever and the loan is unsecured, there is absolutely no guarantee that the borrower is going to return the money (other than his/her salary).

The Actual Situation

Problems began when the proliferation of this kind of loan drew so many unscrupulous lenders to this new market.

In order to attract new customers they began to offer longer repayment programs, loan renovations, interest reschedules, etc.

As with credit cards the flexibility offered by Pay Day Loan lenders began to create a vicious circle for many people that had no control over their finances.

Thus, they take a pay Pay Day Loan, fail to repay it on time and take another one in order to pay the previous one and so on.

Debt starts accumulating, interests increase and sooner or later a debt consolidation program is necessary or worst, they have to file for bankruptcy.

It’s as unfair to say that the whole responsibility belongs to the lenders as it is to say they have no responsibility at all.

The advertisements, the hidden loan terms concealed in the fine print of loan contracts too long for anyone in a desperate situation to read and the easiness with which some lenders extend loans for people they know can’t repay without making huge sacrifices has a lot to do with the bad reputation of Pay Day Loans.

Applying for a Pay Day Loan is not a sin

If an unexpected situation arises and you don’t have the money you need to solve it, nor you have the time to resort to other forms of finance and you know that you’ll be able to repay the loan without problems by next payday, it won’t kill you to request a Pay Day Loan.

What you need to understand is that they are meant for emergency situations and you must avoid taking it as a habit to request a Pay Day Loan every time you need extra cash for whatever reason.

Published: Tuesday, 24th Aug 2021
Author: 11


Personal Loans Articles

The Psychological Impact of Debt: Strategies for Stress Relief and Better Fiscal Health
The Psychological Impact of Debt: Strategies for Stress Relief and Better Fiscal Health
It is no secret that the foundation of financial well-being is rooted in effective budgeting. In today's fast-paced world, where consumerism reigns, understanding how to manage one's finances has never been more crucial. Budgeting is not merely about restraining spending; it’s about creating a strategic plan that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle. It allows individuals to gain control over their money, rather than letting their spending habits dictate their life course. - read more
Creating a Financial Safety Net: Insurance and Savings Tips for Young Families
Creating a Financial Safety Net: Insurance and Savings Tips for Young Families
Welcome to our blog! For young families, securing your future often requires careful planning and prudent financial decisions. One of the most crucial steps you can take in this journey is creating a financial safety net. - read more
Budgeting Basics: How to Create a Stress-Free Financial Plan
Budgeting Basics: How to Create a Stress-Free Financial Plan
Budgeting is often seen as a restrictive practice, something that curtails fun and spontaneity. However, the truth is quite the contrary. Proper budgeting is a fundamental aspect of nurturing financial well-being. It's about understanding your income, controlling your spending, and ensuring that you prioritize saving and investing. A well-crafted budget can lead to a stress-free financial life by giving you a clear view of where your money is going and where you can potentially save. - read more
Understanding the Key Differences Between Secured and Unsecured Loans
Understanding the Key Differences Between Secured and Unsecured Loans
In simple terms, a loan is an amount of money you borrow from a lender and agree to pay back over time, often with interest. Loans come in various forms and can be tailored to suit different needs, such as buying a home, financing a car, or consolidating debt. - read more
The Smart Borrower's Guide: Understanding Interest Rates on Small Loans
The Smart Borrower's Guide: Understanding Interest Rates on Small Loans
When it comes to borrowing money, whether it's for personal use or for your small business, understanding interest rates is paramount. An interest rate, simply put, is the cost you pay to borrow money. It's typically expressed as a percentage of the principal amount you're loaned. This fee is how lenders earn on the funds they lend and is a key component you should consider before signing a loan agreement. - read more
Tips for Choosing the Right Type of Loan for Your Financial Situation
Tips for Choosing the Right Type of Loan for Your Financial Situation
Loans can play a significant role in shaping our financial landscapes. For many Australians, they are vital tools for achieving milestones like buying a home, financing education, or starting a business. However, selecting the wrong type of loan can have a detrimental impact on your financial health, leaving you with unwanted debt and stress. - read more
Secured Versus Unsecured: Which Loan Option Aligns with Your Financial Goals?
Secured Versus Unsecured: Which Loan Option Aligns with Your Financial Goals?
The landscape of personal financing is broad and varied, particularly in the Australian market where individuals have access to an array of loan options. When considering lending, the fundamental distinction to comprehend is that between 'secured' and 'unsecured' loans. - read more
Budgeting 101: How to Get a Personal Loan Despite Bad Credit
Budgeting 101: How to Get a Personal Loan Despite Bad Credit
Smart budgeting is the cornerstone of financial health. It helps you understand where your money is going and empowers you to make informed financial decisions. In Australia, like everywhere else, a well-managed budget can significantly improve your quality of life and financial stability. - read more
A Beginner's Guide to Personal Loans During Financial Hardship
A Beginner's Guide to Personal Loans During Financial Hardship
Welcome to our beginner's guide on personal loans during financial hardship. Navigating financial challenges can be overwhelming, but personal loans could serve as a viable solution. This article will cover what personal loans are, how they work, and why they might be beneficial during tough times. - read more

Finance News

Small Business Lending Surges After RBA's Interest Rate Reductions
Small Business Lending Surges After RBA's Interest Rate Reductions
13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
In a significant development for Australia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), recent interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) have led to a notable increase in small business loan applications. This trend underscores a renewed sense of optimism among business owners, eager to leverage more favourable borrowing conditions to drive growth and expansion. - read more
Expansion of Private Credit Market Opens New Financing Avenues for Australian SMEs
Expansion of Private Credit Market Opens New Financing Avenues for Australian SMEs
13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian financial landscape is witnessing a significant shift as the private credit market experiences substantial growth, offering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) alternative avenues for financing. This expansion is particularly noteworthy in the context of traditional banks tightening their lending criteria, leaving many businesses in search of accessible funding solutions. - read more
Reserve Bank of Australia Advises Caution on Borrowing as Rate Cuts Loom
Reserve Bank of Australia Advises Caution on Borrowing as Rate Cuts Loom
13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
As the Australian economy anticipates potential interest rate reductions, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has issued a cautionary note to households, advising against excessive borrowing that could lead to financial instability. This advisory comes amidst a backdrop of economic recovery efforts and aims to prevent the emergence of a boom-bust cycle driven by unsustainable debt levels. - read more
Westpac's Strategic Expansion in Business Banking
Westpac's Strategic Expansion in Business Banking
05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
Westpac Banking Corporation has announced a significant expansion in its business banking division, with plans to recruit 350 new bankers over the next two years. This strategic move is part of Westpac's concerted effort to reclaim its leadership position in Australia's business lending market. - read more
New Credit Check Requirements for BNPL Services in Australia
New Credit Check Requirements for BNPL Services in Australia
05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian government has introduced new legislation mandating that buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) providers conduct credit checks on borrowers. This move aims to align BNPL services with traditional credit providers, enhancing consumer protection and financial transparency. - read more
APRA's Decision to Retain the 3% Serviceability Buffer
APRA's Decision to Retain the 3% Serviceability Buffer
05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced its decision to maintain the 3% serviceability buffer for home loan lending. This buffer requires lenders to assess a borrower's ability to meet loan repayments at an interest rate 3% higher than the current rate, ensuring borrowers can withstand potential rate increases. - read more
Government Extends Small Business Lending Exemption to 2026
Government Extends Small Business Lending Exemption to 2026
27 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian government has announced an extension of the exemption from Responsible Lending Obligations (RLOs) for small businesses, now set to continue until October 3, 2026. This decision aims to facilitate easier access to credit for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), recognizing their pivotal role in the national economy. - read more
AFCA Releases Guidance on Small Business Lending Complaints
AFCA Releases Guidance on Small Business Lending Complaints
27 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has published its 'Approach to Lending to Small Business,' providing comprehensive guidance on how it considers complaints related to small business lending. This initiative aims to offer clarity and transparency for both financial firms and small business owners navigating lending disputes. - read more
Afterpay Reports BNPL Users Advised to Close Accounts for Mortgage Approval
Afterpay Reports BNPL Users Advised to Close Accounts for Mortgage Approval
27 Sep 2025: Paige Estritori
Afterpay, Australia's leading buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) provider, has reported that over 10% of its surveyed users were advised to close their BNPL accounts to qualify for a mortgage. Subsequently, these users were offered credit cards by the same banks or mortgage brokers, highlighting the competitive dynamics within the consumer finance sector. - read more

Need Help Finding a Loan?


All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Negative Amortization:
A situation in which the loan payment for any period is less than the interest charged over that period, causing the loan balance to increase.


Quick Links: | Small Loans | Small Personal Loans | Small Business Loans | Quick Loans Under $10000 | Fast Cash Loans | Emergency Loans | Instant Approval Loans | Bad Credit Small Loans | Online Loans Under $10000 | Short Term Loans | Unsecured Loans