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.
A surge in scam reports has highlighted ongoing challenges as Australians continued to lose significant sums to fraudulent schemes.
Despite efforts to combat scams, reports to the national complaints authority reached unprecedented levels in 2023/24.
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority disclosed in its latest report that over 10,000 scams were reported last year, marking an alarming 81% surge compared with the previous reporting period. While this escalation is troubling, David Locke, chief ombudsman for the authority, noted a decline was observed in the later quarters.
"This decline in reports is heartening, but it's certainly not time for complacency," Locke emphasized. Initiatives by both the federal government and major banks have been cited as contributing factors to the reduction in scam activities.
However, Locke warns that "there is still a long way to go" in effectively addressing and mitigating scams across the board. The authority encountered over 10,000 scam-related cases, resolving 70% within 60 days, showcasing a need for faster and more efficient processes.
The ongoing fight against scams was coupled with a rise in financial distress cases. Complaints spurred by financial hardship increased by 18%, highlighting struggles with home, personal, and credit card loans. Ineffective communication and subpar handling during hardship assistance processes were frequently cited grievances.
Locke conveyed concerns regarding the financial industry’s response to these challenges, stating, "Over the past two years, consumers have faced a record level of premium growth in both car and home insurance." There remains a noticeable scarcity of adaptive measures concerning suitable resources and supportive product frameworks.
This article draws information from a recent AAP-delivered update, outlining critical elements of the Australian financial landscape over the past year. Navigating the complex web of financial fraud demands concerted efforts-from improving customer service to designing products focused on resolving grievances swiftly.
Published:Thursday, 31st Oct 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has recently highlighted a significant concern for small businesses: the risks associated with engaging unregulated lenders. This warning comes in response to a record number of complaints from small business owners, many of which involve lenders not affiliated with AFCA. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently expressed concerns regarding the compliance practices of certain small credit lenders. A comprehensive review conducted by ASIC revealed that some providers of small amount credit contracts (SACCs) may be steering vulnerable consumers towards financial products that offer fewer protections, potentially exposing them to increased financial risk. - read more
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has recently implemented changes to its lending policies concerning companies and trusts. Effective from November 22, 2025, these adjustments require that borrowers seeking loans under these structures must have an existing relationship with the bank. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently highlighted significant concerns regarding the practices of certain payday lenders. A comprehensive review conducted by ASIC suggests that some providers of small amount credit contracts (SACCs) may be engaging in activities that contravene consumer protection laws. - read more
Non-bank lender So Money is expanding its services to cater to Australia's burgeoning small business sector by introducing new lending solutions specifically designed for self-employed borrowers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This strategic move aims to simplify the income verification process and provide more flexible financing options to a traditionally underserved market. - read more
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
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently 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
In a significant development for Australia's small business sector, OnDeck Australia has reported a remarkable 246% year-on-year increase in broker-originated small business loans funded in November 2024 compared to the same month in 2023. This surge underscores a renewed confidence among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in leveraging broker channels for their financing needs. - read more
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has issued a cautionary advisory to small businesses regarding the risks associated with engaging unregulated lenders. This warning comes in response to a notable increase in complaints that fall outside AFCA's jurisdiction, leaving many business owners without recourse when disputes arise. - read more
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
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
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
Interest rates play a vital role when it comes to borrowing money. They determine how much extra you'll pay on top of the amount you've borrowed. - read more
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
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
Bad credit, often resulting from late payments, high debt levels, or other financial missteps, can feel like a major roadblock. It typically means that your credit score falls below a certain threshold and may reflect a history of financial challenges. - read more
Debt can often feel like a formidable obstacle on the path to financial stability. Many individuals battle with various forms of debt, from high-interest credit cards to significant loans that seem to have an unyielding grip on their financial lives. Recognizing the challenges that debt presents is the critical first step towards regaining control of your personal finances. - read more
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
Need Help Finding a Loan?
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation. We
respect your
privacy.
Knowledgebase
Option: A financial derivative that gives the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an asset at a specified price on or before a specified date.