Small Loans Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Australian Credit Card Spending Sees Significant Increase

Analyzing the 5.1% Year-on-Year Rise in Credit Card Purchases

Australian Credit Card Spending Sees Significant Increase?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.

In December 2025, Australian credit card purchases reached a total of $38.7 billion, marking a 5.1% increase compared to the same period in the previous year.
The number of transactions grew by 2.0% to 323.7 million, with the average spend per card reaching $3,151.

Several factors contribute to this uptick in credit card spending. The festive season typically sees a surge in consumer purchases, and the December 2025 period was no exception. Additionally, the easing of COVID-19 restrictions has led to increased consumer confidence and spending.

While increased spending can indicate economic recovery, it's essential for consumers to manage their credit card usage responsibly. Accumulating high levels of credit card debt can lead to financial strain, especially if interest rates rise. Financial advisors recommend paying off balances in full each month to avoid interest charges and considering budgeting tools to monitor spending habits.

In summary, the rise in credit card spending reflects a positive trend in consumer confidence and economic activity. However, individuals should remain vigilant in managing their finances to ensure long-term financial health.

Published:Monday, 30th Mar 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Finance News

Australian Home Loan Sizes Hit Record Highs in 2026
Australian Home Loan Sizes Hit Record Highs in 2026
30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent data indicates that Australian home loan sizes have reached unprecedented levels. For owner-occupiers, the average loan size has climbed to a record $736,259, marking a 6.1% increase month-on-month and a 10.5% rise compared to the previous year. First home buyers are also borrowing more, with the average loan reaching $607,624, up 8.5% from the previous month and 11.8% year-on-year. - read more
Australian Credit Card Spending Sees Significant Increase
Australian Credit Card Spending Sees Significant Increase
30 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
In December 2025, Australian credit card purchases reached a total of $38.7 billion, marking a 5.1% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. The number of transactions grew by 2.0% to 323.7 million, with the average spend per card reaching $3,151. - read more
ASIC's Alert to Payday Lenders: Upholding Consumer Protection Standards
ASIC's Alert to Payday Lenders: Upholding Consumer Protection Standards
22 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently issued a cautionary notice to payday lenders, highlighting potential breaches of consumer protection laws. This follows a comprehensive review indicating that certain lenders may not be adequately safeguarding borrowers, particularly those seeking small amount credit contracts. - read more
Rising Demand for Business Loans Among Australian SMEs
Rising Demand for Business Loans Among Australian SMEs
14 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The landscape of business financing in Australia is witnessing a notable shift, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) increasingly seeking substantial loans to fuel their growth ambitions. This rising demand is being met by non-bank lenders, who are offering more accessible and flexible funding solutions. - read more
Non-Bank Lenders' Rising Role in SME Financing
Non-Bank Lenders' Rising Role in SME Financing
14 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
In the evolving landscape of small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) financing in Australia, a significant shift is underway. Brokers are increasingly directing their clients towards non-bank lenders, especially for loans under $500,000. This trend underscores a growing preference for faster decision-making and streamlined application processes, which are often hallmarks of non-bank institutions. - read more
SME Lending Surge Opens New Avenues for Brokers
SME Lending Surge Opens New Avenues for Brokers
14 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are experiencing a period of robust growth, leading to an increased demand for financing solutions. This surge presents a lucrative opportunity for brokers to expand their revenue streams by partnering with non-bank lenders. - read more
Prospa Achieves $5 Billion Milestone in SME Lending
Prospa Achieves $5 Billion Milestone in SME Lending
06 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
Prospa, a leading non-bank lender specialising in small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) financing, has recently surpassed $5 billion in total funding since its inception in 2012. This significant achievement underscores Prospa's commitment to supporting Australian SMEs by providing accessible and flexible loan options. - read more
Renown Lending Boosts SME Funding to $400 Million Nationwide
Renown Lending Boosts SME Funding to $400 Million Nationwide
06 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
Renown Lending has announced a significant expansion of its funding pool, increasing it from $250 million to $400 million. This move aims to provide comprehensive financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across all Australian states, addressing the growing demand for flexible and accessible business financing. - read more
RBA's February 2026 Rate Hike: What It Means for Borrowers
RBA's February 2026 Rate Hike: What It Means for Borrowers
26 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In a decisive move to address persistent inflation, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has raised the official cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.85% during its February 2026 meeting. This adjustment marks a significant shift in the monetary policy landscape, reflecting the central bank's commitment to curbing inflationary pressures that have been building over recent months. - read more


Personal Loans Articles

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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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


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:
The process of combining multiple debts into a single loan with a lower interest rate or more favorable terms.


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