Small Loans Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Minister Tightens the Net Around Financial Scams

Minister Tightens the Net Around Financial Scams

Minister Tightens the Net Around Financial Scams?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The initiative to make financial advice both affordable and accessible has taken a center stage for the Albanese government, spurred by the urgency to shield citizens from escalating scam activities.
Over $2.74 billion vanished into scam schemes in Australia last year, with investment scams alone accounting for half that loss, according to the Treasury's official figures.

Speaking at the National Press Club in Canberra, Minister for Financial Services Stephen Jones underscored the focus on fighting scams as the government’s priority in the lead-up to the next federal election. The newly established National Anti-Scam Centre, buttressed by a $58 million allocation from the last federal budget, is central to these efforts.

Jones proudly cited the centre's early triumphs, mentioning that their pioneering "fusion cells" had catalyzed a 29% reduction in investment scam losses in the latter half of 2023. This achievement exemplifies the potential of government intervention in curbing scams rather than leaving the burden solely on consumer education or personal vigilance.

"Labeling victims as foolish individuals who deserve what they get is an outdated perspective," Jones challenged, dismissing an ancient attitude toward those who fall prey to scams. Recent trends have shown that intertwining financial advice reforms with anti-scam efforts can pay dividends.

Jones, in a recent interview shared with _Professional Planner_, voiced his concern that international crime syndicates perceive Australians as affluent yet financially naive, making them prime targets for scams. "We need obligated pathways to safe financial advice for everyday Australians," he said.

The minister emphasized the need for introducing streamlined, basic financial advice through credible sources such as banks, super funds, and insurance bodies. Such advice should provide solutions to commonplace inquiries surrounding inheritances, investments, or personal finance decisions.

"Currently, many Australians are left vulnerable because they lack access to places where they can find straightforward answers," Jones explained.

Moving onto enforcement strategy, Jones compared Australia's response to that of the UK, highlighting that along with financial institutions, telecommunications and social media companies will equally be held accountable in combating scams. He called out Silicon Valley giants, particularly Meta, over their complacency in allowing fraudulent advertisements that lead to scams proliferating on their platforms.

"It's unacceptable that these platforms profit while Australians get scammed," Jones criticized. His comments received mixed reactions, with some pressing that banks bear the primary responsibility.

Jones asserted, "While banks aren't absolved of their duties either, marginal financial bodies shouldn’t bear the same level of accountability as tech giants who host and benefit from these scam ads.” He emphasized that “digital platforms possess a moral duty to be part of this struggle against scams.”

Published:Thursday, 1st Aug 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Understanding APRA's New Cap on High Debt-to-Income Loans
Understanding APRA's New Cap on High Debt-to-Income Loans
24 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will implement a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, limiting banks to issuing no more than 20% of new home loans with DTI ratios of six times or higher. This measure applies to both owner-occupier and investor loans, excluding new housing developments. - read more
ASIC's Deep Dive into Private Lending Reveals Industry Shortcomings
ASIC's Deep Dive into Private Lending Reveals Industry Shortcomings
24 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has conducted a comprehensive review of the private lending sector, uncovering several areas of concern. The investigation revealed inconsistent and unclear reporting, downplayed risks, opaque fee structures, conflicts of interest, and poor valuation practices within the industry. - read more
Rising Non-Bank Lenders Draw Attention from Regulators
Rising Non-Bank Lenders Draw Attention from Regulators
24 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian non-bank lending sector is experiencing significant growth, attracting attention from both the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). As more Australians turn to non-bank lenders for property loans, concerns about financial stability and regulatory oversight have emerged. - read more
Australian Business Lending Hits Record Highs
Australian Business Lending Hits Record Highs
16 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
In a significant development for Australia's financial sector, business lending has reached an unprecedented $925 billion across the nation's top 10 authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) as of July 2025. This milestone underscores a robust appetite for corporate borrowing, reflecting growing economic confidence among businesses. - read more
Australian SMEs Embrace Non-Bank Lenders for Growth
Australian SMEs Embrace Non-Bank Lenders for Growth
16 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
Recent data indicates a significant shift in the financing preferences of Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with over 54% now planning to utilise non-bank lenders for business investment in the next six months. This marks a notable increase from 47% recorded a year ago, highlighting a growing inclination among SMEs to seek alternative financing solutions that offer greater flexibility and accessibility. - read more
Understanding APRA's New Cap on High Debt-to-Income Home Loans
Understanding APRA's New Cap on High Debt-to-Income Home Loans
08 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at curbing high-risk lending practices within the housing market. Effective from 1 February 2026, APRA will implement a cap limiting banks to issuing no more than 20% of new home loans with debt-to-income (DTI) ratios of six times or higher. This measure applies to both owner-occupier and investor loans, excluding new housing developments. - read more
The Rise of Non-Bank Lending Among Australian SMEs
The Rise of Non-Bank Lending Among Australian SMEs
08 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
Recent trends indicate a significant shift in the financing preferences of Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A growing number of these businesses are turning to non-bank lenders to meet their funding needs, driven by the desire for more flexible and accessible financing solutions. - read more
The Growing Preference for Buy Now Pay Later Services in Australia
The Growing Preference for Buy Now Pay Later Services in Australia
08 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
In recent years, Australia has witnessed a significant transformation in consumer financing preferences, with Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services emerging as a favoured alternative to traditional credit options such as credit cards and personal loans. - read more
APRA's New Debt-to-Income Cap: What Homebuyers Need to Know
APRA's New Debt-to-Income Cap: What Homebuyers Need to Know
30 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will implement a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, limiting banks to issuing no more than 20% of new home loans with DTI ratios of six times or higher. This measure applies to both owner-occupier and investor loans, excluding new housing developments. - read more


Personal Loans Articles

How to Boost Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Personal Loan
How to Boost Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Personal Loan
Your credit score is a numerical representation of your financial trustworthiness. Lenders use this score to assess the risk of lending you money. - read more
Quick Fixes for Common Credit Score Issues in Australia
Quick Fixes for Common Credit Score Issues in Australia
Credit scores play a crucial role in your financial life, influencing your ability to access loans, credit cards, and even housing rentals. In Australia, your credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, which lenders use to assess the risk of lending to you. - 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
Taking Control: Steps to Improve Your Credit and Secure the Loan You Need
Taking Control: Steps to Improve Your Credit and Secure the Loan You Need
Your credit score is much more than just a number; it's a reflection of your financial history and a determining factor in securing future loans. Understanding how bad credit can affect your loan applications is crucial in today's financial landscape. Bad credit can lead to frustration and disappointment when looking for a competitive loan offer, but don't lose heart—there are actionable steps you can take to improve your situation. - 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
Bad Credit? Here's How You Can Still Get a Competitive Personal Loan
Bad Credit? Here's How You Can Still Get a Competitive Personal Loan
In the landscape of modern finance, credit scores can often feel like gatekeepers to our goals, barring or granting access to essential funding when we need it most. The truth is, debt is as common as it is complex, threading through the lives of many with silent tenacity. Understanding its prevalence is the first step in navigating the choppy financial waters it can create. - read more
Why Having an Emergency Fund is Crucial for Your Financial Health
Why Having an Emergency Fund is Crucial for Your Financial Health
Imagine being hit with an unexpected expense like a car repair or medical bill. Without a financial buffer, such surprises can wreak havoc on your budget. This is where an emergency fund plays its heroic role. - read more
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
Smart Budgeting Tips to Improve Your Financial Health
Smart Budgeting Tips to Improve Your Financial Health
Smart budgeting is one of the most vital tools in maintaining and improving your financial health. It provides a clear picture of your financial situation, helping you make informed decisions about spending, saving, and borrowing. - read more


Need Help Finding a Loan?


All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.

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

Knowledgebase
Underwater Mortgage:
A mortgage in which the balance owed on the loan is greater than the value of the property securing the loan.


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