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.
Australian financial sector leaders have expressed strong support following the latest announcement of key budgetary adjustments aimed at streamlining investment processes and deepening engagement within the nation's financial landscape.
The Federal Budget has placed a spotlight on the financial service sector's significant position as a promoter of Australia's sustainable economic prosperity.
In line with these developments, the Financial Services Council (FSC) has acknowledged the introduction of a consolidated point of entry designated for substantial investors. This gateway simplifies access, driving a more unified and effective investment experience. The corresponding commitment marked towards consultation on facilitating investments is seen as a catalyst for both current and prospective economic opportunities.
Further boosting investor confidence, the administration plans to inject new capital into a labelling regime for investment products, issue green bonds conducive to environmentally-focused projects, and align regulatory frameworks with global standards, according to FSC’s enthusiastic endorsement.
FSC’s Chief Executive, Blake Briggs, highlighted the interconnection between Australia's investment community and the onward march toward a low-carbon future. "The integration of an aligned regulatory system, furnished with a transparent investment labelling scheme, stands central to the Federal Budget," he outlined, signaling the imperative role of financial services within this context.
Furthermore, Briggs applauded the Government's decision to forge ahead with vital reforms to superannuation, particularly improving the economic robustness and security for Australian women. By extending superannuation benefits to recipients of the governmental Paid Parental Leave (PPL) scheme from mid-2025, the anticipated disparity in retirement funds experienced by Australian women relative to their male counterparts could be addressed.
Tackling the intricacies of foreign investment, the FSC has backed initiatives to revise the pertinent legislative scaffolding, purporting to diminish red tape for internationally trusted investors. Akin to these proposals is the Treasurer’s ambition to expedite procedures and waive certain fees for pre-established investors with a credible history, which the FSC predicts will lead to reduced expenses for Australian investors.
However, while praising the addressed policy changes, the FSC encourages further endeavors to leverage the upward momentum of the national financial services industry. Briggs asserts that Australia harbors untapped potential to develop into a notable global finance hub. Achieving this status calls for a suite of strategic reforms aimed at enhancing international investment appeal and the country’s overall investment competitiveness.
Published:Thursday, 16th May 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
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
Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals a decline in the annual inflation rate to 3.4% as of November 2025, down from 3.8% in October. This unexpected easing has led to speculation that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) may delay further interest rate hikes, providing a reprieve for borrowers concerned about rising loan costs. - read more
National Australia Bank (NAB) has revised its economic outlook, now anticipating two 25 basis point increases in the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) cash rate during 2026. The bank forecasts these hikes to occur in February and May, potentially raising the cash rate to 4.10% by mid-year. This projection diverges from market expectations, which have largely assumed a prolonged period of rate stability. - read more
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
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
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
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
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, 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
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
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
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
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
Need Help Finding a Loan?
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation. We
respect your
privacy.
Knowledgebase
Foreclosure: The legal process by which a lender takes control of a property, evicts the homeowner, and sells the home after the homeowner fails to make mortgage payments.