Small Loans Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

ATO Debt Rule Changes Prompt Surge in Business Loan Applications

Small Businesses Seek Financing Ahead of Non-Deductible Interest Charges

ATO Debt Rule Changes Prompt Surge in Business Loan Applications?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.

Recent changes to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) debt regulations have led to a significant increase in business loan inquiries among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Effective from 1 July 2025, general interest charges (GIC) and shortfall interest charges (SIC) on tax debts will no longer be tax-deductible.
With the GIC rate currently at 11.17% and compounding daily, this change has prompted many SMEs to seek alternative financing options to manage their tax liabilities.

According to data from the Loan Market Group (LMG), there has been a 486% rise in business finance inquiries related to tax debt in the 2024-25 financial year compared to the previous year. This surge indicates a proactive approach by business owners to restructure or refinance their tax debts before the new rules take effect.

Andrew Vitucci, a finance broker at My Lending Specialist, noted a shift in client behaviour due to the impending changes. He highlighted that while ATO debt has always been a challenge for small business owners, the ability to claim interest as a deduction previously provided some relief. With this option now removed, business owners are exploring other avenues to manage their tax obligations effectively.

For SMEs navigating these changes, it's essential to:

  • Review current tax debt and assess the impact of the non-deductibility of interest charges.
  • Explore refinancing options with financial institutions that offer favourable terms.
  • Consult with financial advisors to develop strategies for efficient tax debt management.

By taking proactive steps, small business owners can mitigate the financial impact of the ATO's new regulations and ensure the continued stability and growth of their enterprises.

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

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

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
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
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
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
How to Create a Budget That Really Works for You
How to Create a Budget That Really Works for You
Budgeting is a foundational skill in the realm of personal finance, and as crucial as setting the sails is to a captain navigating through treacherous waters. Just as steady winds propel a ship towards its destination, a well-structured budget guides individuals towards their financial goals with confidence and control. - read more
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Personal Loan Utilization
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Personal Loan Utilization
Personal loans can be a valuable financial tool when used wisely. They can help you cover unexpected expenses, consolidate debt, or even fund major purchases. However, it's crucial to understand the implications of taking out a personal loan, especially if you have bad credit. - 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
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
Debt Consolidation Strategies: How to Regain Control of Your Finances
Debt Consolidation Strategies: How to Regain Control of Your Finances
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


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
Default:
The failure to repay a debt, including interest or principal, on a loan or security.


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