- Government Fast-Tracks $6.15 Billion to Support Australian Businesses
The Australian government has announced an expedited release of $6.15 billion in concessional capital to support businesses facing global market disruptions. This initiative aims to bolster domestic industries, enhance production capabilities, and assist in decarbonisation efforts.
- NAB Achieves 11% Net Profit Growth in First Quarter of 2026
National Australia Bank (NAB) has reported an 11% year-on-year increase in net profit for the first quarter of the 2026 financial year, reaching $1.56 billion. This growth is attributed to higher revenue across customer-facing divisions and a supportive Australian economic environment.
- ANZ Bank Achieves $1.38 Billion Profit in First Quarter of 2026
ANZ Bank has reported a cash profit of $1.38 billion for the first quarter of 2026, marking a 75% increase compared to the average quarterly profit in the second half of 2025. This significant growth is attributed to a 5% year-on-year rise in deposits, reaching $561.59 billion, and a 0.
- Westpac CEO Highlights Recession Risks as Interest Rates Climb
Anthony Miller, CEO of Westpac, has expressed concerns about the growing risk of a recession in Australia, citing escalating inflationary pressures and geopolitical tensions. In a recent interview, Miller emphasized the need for preparedness as economic circumstances evolve.
- APRA's New Home Loan Caps: What Borrowers Need to Know
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at enhancing financial stability within the housing market. Effective 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.
- ASIC's Investigation into Private Lending: Key Findings and Implications
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.
- New Government Support: Concessional Loans for Drought-Affected Farmers
The Australian government has announced the introduction of new concessional loans aimed at supporting farmers and fishers affected by drought and algal blooms. This initiative is part of the government's response to the challenges faced by the agricultural sector due to adverse environmental conditions.
- Interest-Free Loans Launched to Aid Small Businesses During Fuel Crisis
In response to the escalating fuel crisis impacting small businesses across Australia, the federal government has unveiled a $1 billion interest-free loan program.
- Specialist Lenders Extend Support to SMEs Amid Fuel Price Surge
As fuel prices continue to escalate, placing significant financial pressure on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), specialist lenders such as Prospa and Judo Bank have stepped forward to offer tailored support solutions. These initiatives aim to assist businesses in managing cash flow challenges arising from increased operational costs.
- Government Accelerates $6.15 Billion in Business Support Amid Global Challenges
The Australian government has announced the expedited release of $6.15 billion in concessional capital to support businesses grappling with global market disruptions. This initiative is part of the National Reconstruction Fund (NRF) and includes the Economic Resilience Program, the Net Zero Fund, and the Forestry Growth Fund.
- Australian Home Loan Sizes Hit Record Highs in 2026
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.
- Australian Credit Card Spending Sees Significant Increase
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.
- ASIC's Alert to Payday Lenders: Upholding Consumer Protection Standards
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.
- Rising Demand for Business Loans Among Australian SMEs
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.
- Non-Bank Lenders' Rising Role in SME Financing
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.
- SME Lending Surge Opens New Avenues for Brokers
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.
- Prospa Achieves $5 Billion Milestone in SME Lending
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.
- Renown Lending Boosts SME Funding to $400 Million Nationwide
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.
- RBA's February 2026 Rate Hike: What It Means for Borrowers
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.
- Inflation Eases to 3.4%: What This Means for Australian Borrowers
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.
- NAB Predicts Dual Rate Hikes in 2026: Implications for Borrowers
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.
- AFCA Issues Caution to Small Businesses on Unregulated Lending Risks
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.
- ASIC Flags Compliance Concerns Among Small Credit Lenders
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently expressed concerns regarding the compliance practices of certain small credit lenders.
- Commonwealth Bank Adjusts Lending Policies for Companies and Trusts
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.
- ASIC Raises Concerns Over Payday Lenders' Compliance with Consumer Protection Laws
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.
- So Money Launches Tailored Lending Solutions for Self-Employed and SMEs
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).
- APRA's New Lending Cap: What Homebuyers Need to Know
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market.
- ASIC's Findings on Private Lending Practices
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.
- OnDeck Australia's Broker-Originated SME Loans Skyrocket by 246%
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.
- AFCA Alerts Small Businesses to Dangers of Unregulated Lending
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.
- So Money Launches Tailored Lending Solutions for SMEs and Self-Employed
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.
- Non-Bank Lenders Capture 26% of SME Loan Market
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.
- Australian SMEs Navigate Cashflow Struggles Amid Cost Increases
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.
- OnDeck Australia Sees Significant Growth in Broker-Originated SME Loans
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 substantial growth underscores a renewed confidence among Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in seeking financial support through broker channels.
- AFCA Issues Caution to SMEs on Unregulated Lending Practices
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has issued a warning to small businesses regarding the risks associated with engaging unregulated lenders. This caution comes in response to a notable increase in complaints related to lenders not covered by the Credit Act and who are not members of AFCA.
- So Money Launches New Lending Solutions for Self-Employed and SMEs
In response to Australia's expanding small business sector, non-bank lender So Money has introduced new lending solutions tailored 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.
- Understanding APRA's New Cap on High Debt-to-Income Loans
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market.
- ASIC's Deep Dive into Private Lending Reveals Industry Shortcomings
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.
- Rising Non-Bank Lenders Draw Attention from Regulators
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.
- Australian Business Lending Hits Record Highs
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.
- Australian SMEs Embrace Non-Bank Lenders for Growth
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.
- Understanding APRA's New Cap on High Debt-to-Income Home Loans
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at curbing high-risk lending practices within the housing market.
- The Rise of Non-Bank Lending Among Australian SMEs
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.
- The Growing Preference for Buy Now Pay Later Services in Australia
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.
- APRA's New Debt-to-Income Cap: What Homebuyers Need to Know
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market.
- NAB's Interest Rate Reduction: A Boost for Australian Businesses
In response to the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) recent decision to lower the official cash rate by 0.25%, National Australia Bank (NAB) has announced a corresponding reduction in interest rates for eligible business lending products.
- Bizcap's Enhanced Loan Limits: Empowering SMEs with Up to $7.5 Million
Australian non-bank lender Bizcap has announced an increase in its lending limits for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), now offering loans up to $7.5 million, up from the previous $5 million cap.
- AFCA Issues Warning to Small Businesses on Unregulated Lending Risks
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.
- ATO Debt Rule Changes Prompt Surge in Business Loan Applications
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.
- ASIC Raises Compliance Concerns Among Small Credit Lenders
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently expressed concerns regarding the compliance practices of certain small credit lenders.
- ASIC Highlights Compliance Concerns Among Payday Lenders
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review into the practices of payday lenders, uncovering potential breaches of consumer protection laws.
- Harmoney Introduces Tailored Small Personal Loans
Harmoney, a prominent Australian non-bank lender, has expanded its offerings to include small personal loans designed to meet the diverse needs of consumers. These loans range from $2,000 to $100,000, with interest rates starting from 5.76% per annum, tailored to each individual's credit profile.
- Swoosh Finance Delivers Quick Small Cash Loans Online
Swoosh Finance, an Australian online lender, is offering small cash loans ranging from $2,200 to $5,000, with a streamlined application process that can result in same-day approval. This service is designed to provide quick financial relief for individuals facing unexpected expenses or short-term cash flow challenges.
- RBA's Interest Rate Reduction Fuels Surge in SME Lending
The Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) recent decision to cut the official cash rate by 0.25% has had a significant impact on the small business sector.
- Australian SMEs Increasingly Turn to Non-Bank Lenders for Investment
Recent findings from ScotPac's SME Growth Index Report reveal a significant shift in the financing preferences of Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- Rate Money Announces Rate Reductions for Self-Employed Borrowers
In a move to support self-employed Australians, non-bank lender Rate Money has announced significant reductions in interest rates across its 'Evolve Easy Doc' loan range. Effective from June 30, 2025, the new rates start from 6.
- Renown Lending Partners with Marlbury Capital to Expand SME Asset-Backed Loans
Renown Lending has announced a significant partnership with Marlbury Capital, securing a $100 million facility to expand asset-backed loans for Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This initiative is designed to offer fast, simple, and flexible financing solutions, enabling business owners to seize opportunities, manage cash flow, and stabilize operations.
- ASIC Highlights Compliance Issues Among Small Credit Lenders
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently expressed concerns regarding the compliance practices of certain small credit lenders.
- Small Business Lending Surges After RBA's Interest Rate Reductions
In a significant development for Australia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), recent interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) have led to a notable increase in small business loan applications.
- Expansion of Private Credit Market Opens New Financing Avenues for Australian SMEs
The Australian financial landscape is witnessing a significant shift as the private credit market experiences substantial growth, offering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) alternative avenues for financing.
- Reserve Bank of Australia Advises Caution on Borrowing as Rate Cuts Loom
As the Australian economy anticipates potential interest rate reductions, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has issued a cautionary note to households, advising against excessive borrowing that could lead to financial instability.
- Westpac's Strategic Expansion in Business Banking
Westpac Banking Corporation has announced a significant expansion in its business banking division, with plans to recruit 350 new bankers over the next two years. This strategic move is part of Westpac's concerted effort to reclaim its leadership position in Australia's business lending market.
- New Credit Check Requirements for BNPL Services in Australia
The Australian government has introduced new legislation mandating that buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) providers conduct credit checks on borrowers. This move aims to align BNPL services with traditional credit providers, enhancing consumer protection and financial transparency.
- APRA's Decision to Retain the 3% Serviceability Buffer
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced its decision to maintain the 3% serviceability buffer for home loan lending. This buffer requires lenders to assess a borrower's ability to meet loan repayments at an interest rate 3% higher than the current rate, ensuring borrowers can withstand potential rate increases.
- Government Extends Small Business Lending Exemption to 2026
The Australian government has announced an extension of the exemption from Responsible Lending Obligations (RLOs) for small businesses, now set to continue until October 3, 2026. This decision aims to facilitate easier access to credit for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), recognizing their pivotal role in the national economy.
- AFCA Releases Guidance on Small Business Lending Complaints
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has published its 'Approach to Lending to Small Business,' providing comprehensive guidance on how it considers complaints related to small business lending. This initiative aims to offer clarity and transparency for both financial firms and small business owners navigating lending disputes.
- Afterpay Reports BNPL Users Advised to Close Accounts for Mortgage Approval
Afterpay, Australia's leading buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) provider, has reported that over 10% of its surveyed users were advised to close their BNPL accounts to qualify for a mortgage. Subsequently, these users were offered credit cards by the same banks or mortgage brokers, highlighting the competitive dynamics within the consumer finance sector.
