Small Loans Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

AFCA Issues Warning to Small Businesses on Unregulated Lending Risks

Record Complaints Highlight Dangers of Non-AFCA Member Lenders

AFCA Issues Warning to Small Businesses on Unregulated Lending Risks?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 Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has recently raised concerns regarding the increasing number of small businesses engaging with unregulated lenders.
This caution comes in response to a record 4,648 complaints lodged by small businesses in the 2024-25 financial year, marking a 4% increase from the previous year.
Notably, 21% of these complaints were dismissed as they fell outside AFCA's jurisdiction, primarily because the lenders involved were not AFCA members.

AFCA's Lead Ombudsman for Small Business, Suanne Russell, emphasised the vulnerability of small business owners who deal with non-member lenders. Without AFCA membership, these lenders are not obligated to adhere to the same standards of conduct, leaving borrowers with limited avenues for dispute resolution. Russell highlighted the growing concern over the rise in complaints that AFCA cannot address due to this lack of membership.

In light of these developments, AFCA urges small business owners to exercise due diligence when selecting lenders. Ensuring that a lender is an AFCA member provides an added layer of protection, offering access to external dispute resolution mechanisms should issues arise. This is particularly crucial in the current economic climate, where small businesses face challenges such as cash flow constraints, rising operational costs, and fluctuating interest rates.

For small business owners seeking financing, it's advisable to:

  • Verify the lender's AFCA membership status before entering into any agreements.
  • Understand the terms and conditions of the loan thoroughly.
  • Seek professional financial advice to assess the suitability of the loan for their business needs.

By taking these steps, small businesses can mitigate potential risks associated with unregulated lending and ensure they have the necessary support structures in place to address any future disputes.

Published:Friday, 14th Nov 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Finance News

ASIC Raises Concerns Over Payday Lenders' Compliance with Consumer Protection Laws
ASIC Raises Concerns Over Payday Lenders' Compliance with Consumer Protection Laws
10 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
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
So Money Launches Tailored Lending Solutions for Self-Employed and SMEs
So Money Launches Tailored Lending Solutions for Self-Employed and SMEs
10 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
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
APRA's New Lending Cap: What Homebuyers Need to Know
APRA's New Lending Cap: What Homebuyers Need to Know
25 Jan 2026: 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 Findings on Private Lending Practices
ASIC's Findings on Private Lending Practices
25 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
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
OnDeck Australia's Broker-Originated SME Loans Skyrocket by 246%
OnDeck Australia's Broker-Originated SME Loans Skyrocket by 246%
17 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
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
AFCA Alerts Small Businesses to Dangers of Unregulated Lending
AFCA Alerts Small Businesses to Dangers of Unregulated Lending
17 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
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
So Money Launches Tailored Lending Solutions for SMEs and Self-Employed
So Money Launches Tailored Lending Solutions for SMEs and Self-Employed
17 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In response to Australia's burgeoning small business sector, non-bank lender So Money has unveiled new lending solutions specifically designed for self-employed borrowers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This strategic expansion aims to simplify the income verification process and provide more flexible financing options to a traditionally underserved market. - read more
Non-Bank Lenders Capture 26% of SME Loan Market
Non-Bank Lenders Capture 26% of SME Loan Market
09 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In recent years, non-bank lenders have significantly increased their presence in the Australian small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) financing sector. As of early 2025, these lenders account for 26% of smaller loans to SMEs, marking a notable shift in the financial landscape. - read more
Australian SMEs Navigate Cashflow Struggles Amid Cost Increases
Australian SMEs Navigate Cashflow Struggles Amid Cost Increases
09 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are currently grappling with significant cashflow challenges, primarily driven by rising operational costs. Factors such as increased wages, inflation, and higher interest rates have placed considerable strain on these businesses, affecting their financial stability and growth prospects. - read more


Personal Loans Articles

The Path to Financial Freedom: Effective Debt Management Tips
The Path to Financial Freedom: Effective Debt Management Tips
Financial freedom is the ability to live life without being burdened by the stress of money woes. Imagine having enough savings to cover emergencies, living comfortably without constant financial anxiety, and even planning for retirement confidently. This is the goal many Australians strive for – a peaceful and secure life that isn't dominated by worries about bills and debt. - 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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


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
Debt Consolidation:
A means empoyed to renegotiate debt. By combining loans and outstanding bills, a person can consolidate debt with a single financial institution resulting in a single monthly repayment.


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