Small Loans Australia Weekly News Wrap: The Essentials
Each week, this show brings a clear, plain-English recap of the biggest Australian stories shaping consumer rules, cost-of-living, small business conditions and policy changes. We sort the noise, highlight what’s changed, and explain why it matters for everyday Australians, small operators and the self-employed. Trusted, neutral and repeatable, it’s your steady check-in for context, practical takeaways and credible sources—so you can stay informed and make confident decisions.
This Week:
This weeks wrap covers a likely rate rise from the RBA on Tuesday and what it means for repayments, looming electricity bill increases as rebates end with tips to prepare, a back‑to‑school cost crunch and lower‑cost ways to cope before borrowing, and a major SA housing deal that could be replicated elsewhere. The focus is on practical steps—contact hardship teams early, compare essential costs, shift power use where possible, and choose small loans with transparent fees only when necessary.
EPISODE 1218 | Small Loans Australia Weekly News Wrap: The Essentials | Sun, 1st Feb 2026
5 Feb 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to Small Loans Australia Weekly News Wrap: The Essentials, Im Paige Estritori, and its Sunday, 1 February 2026.
First up, the RBA, the Reserve Bank of Australia, meets on Tuesday and markets expect a rate rise after inflation picked up late last year. If the cash rate goes up, variable home loans and many business overdrafts could cost more. If repayments are biting, talk to your banks hardship team early, and tighten non‑essentials. If you must spread an unavoidable cost, compare smaller loan options carefully so fees and timelines are clear.
Next up, power bills. New data suggests electricity costs could climb by about a quarter this year as bill credits and rebates roll off, adding roughly five hundred dollars for a typical three‑person household. Some states are rolling out three hours of free daytime power for smart‑meter homes from July, which could help if you can shift usage. In the meantime, shop around for a cheaper plan and budget for higher quarterly bills so youre not caught short.
Meanwhile, back‑to‑school costs are crunching cash flow. A national survey found about one in three parents are struggling to afford uniforms and supplies, and some are turning to debt. Before borrowing, ask your school about payment plans, hunt for second‑hand gear, and check any local grants. If you still need a small amount for essentials, choose a transparent product with a repayment schedule you can realistically manage.
And finally, housing supply. A new agreement in South Australia aims to accelerate construction of thousands of homes, with a portion for first‑home buyers, and could be a model for other states. It wont reduce rents or prices overnight, but it points to more stock in the pipeline. For renters and small trades, plan cash flow for moves or equipment, and avoid over‑committing until timelines are clearer.
Thats it for this week. For tools, guides and to start your free small loan assessment, head to small-loans.com.au. Im Paige Estritori—thanks for listening and Ill catch you next Sunday.
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.
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Balloon Payment.: A large loan repayment made in order to clear a debt. Usually applied to a short-term fixed-rate loan, which involves small payments for a certain period of time with one large payment for the remaining amount of the principal at a time specified in the future.
