- Enhanced Access to Home Ownership: Expansion of 5% Deposit Scheme
The Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA) has welcomed Housing Australia's recent decision to expand lender access to the Australian Government's 5% Deposit Scheme. This strategic move is set to increase competition among lenders and provide prospective home buyers with greater access and choice in the housing finance market.
- National AI Plan: A Catalyst for Australia's Finance Industry
The Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA) has expressed strong support for the Albanese Government's recently unveiled National AI Plan, viewing it as a significant step toward unlocking the vast economic and productivity benefits that artificial intelligence (AI) can offer to Australia's finance sector.
- Non-Bank Lenders: A Pillar of Australia's Housing Finance
The Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA) has recently published an inaugural report focusing on residential mortgage non-bank lenders (RNBLs), highlighting their integral role in facilitating home ownership across the nation.
- ANZ Finalises Acquisition of Suncorp Bank for $4.9 Billion
In a significant development for the Australian banking sector, ANZ has successfully completed its $4.9 billion acquisition of Suncorp Bank. This strategic move, finalised on 31 July 2024, marks a pivotal expansion for ANZ, enhancing its service offerings and market reach across the nation.
- Non-Bank Lenders Expand Presence in Australia's Mortgage Sector
The Australian mortgage market is witnessing a notable shift as non-bank lenders increasingly capture a larger share, challenging the dominance of traditional banking institutions. This trend is driven by digital innovation and evolving consumer preferences, leading to a more competitive landscape in home financing.
- RBA Holds Cash Rate at 3.60% Amidst Economic Uncertainty
In its latest monetary policy decision, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has opted to keep the official cash rate unchanged at 3.60%. This decision reflects the central bank's cautious approach in navigating the current economic landscape, balancing the need to control inflation with the goal of sustaining economic growth.
- Westpac's Bold Move: Prioritising Business Lending in New Strategy
Westpac Banking Corporation is undertaking a significant transformation, focusing on expanding its business lending capabilities to better serve Australia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- LMG's Asset Finance Exchange Hits $80 Million Milestone in First Year
Loan Market Group's (LMG) Asset Finance Exchange (AFX) has achieved a significant milestone, reporting approximately $80 million in settlements within its inaugural year. This accomplishment underscores the increasing demand for asset finance solutions among Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
- ASIC Advocates for Higher Standards in Private Lending Industry
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has issued a call for the private lending sector to elevate its standards, aiming to align more closely with established banking practices. This initiative follows a comprehensive review that revealed inconsistencies in reporting, opaque fee structures, and inadequate risk disclosures within the industry.
- Macquarie Bank Recognised for Excellence in Investment Property Lending
Macquarie Bank has been honored as the Investment Property Lender of the Year in Money magazine's 2025 Consumer Finance Awards. This accolade highlights the bank's commitment to providing flexible and tailored loan products for property investors.
- Surge in Mortgage Refinancing as Homeowners Seek Better Rates
The Australian mortgage market has witnessed a significant surge in refinancing activity, with nearly 100,000 loans refinanced in the June 2025 quarter. This marks the highest level since September 2023 and reflects homeowners' proactive responses to recent interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA).
- Investor Loans Surge Amidst Australia's $12 Trillion Property Market Milestone
Recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reveals a significant uptick in investor activity within the housing market. In the third quarter of 2025, new investor loans increased by 13.6%, contributing to a 12.3% annual growth.
- APRA Implements New Cap on High Debt-to-Income Home Loans
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market.
- Australia Leads Global Trends with 122% Surge in Sustainable Loan Issuance
In the first half of 2025, Australia experienced a remarkable 122% increase in sustainable loan issuance, a stark contrast to the 21% decline observed globally during the same period. This surge underscores Australia's commitment to environmental sustainability and the growing integration of green finance within the nation's financial sector.
- RBA's October 2025 Financial Stability Review: Key Insights
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has released its October 2025 Financial Stability Review, providing a comprehensive analysis of the nation's financial system amidst ongoing global economic uncertainties. The report underscores the resilience of Australia's financial institutions, while also highlighting areas requiring vigilant oversight.
- Australian Finance Departments Embrace AI and Automation
In a significant shift towards digital transformation, Australian finance departments are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technologies to streamline operations and enhance decision-making processes. This trend reflects a broader global movement where financial institutions leverage technology to improve efficiency and maintain a competitive edge.
- Australian Finance Industry Navigates AI Integration Challenges
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the finance industry is reshaping traditional roles and responsibilities, prompting junior professionals in Australia to adapt and prove their value in an evolving landscape. As AI technologies automate routine tasks and enhance analytical capabilities, the human element in finance is being redefined.
- RBA Holds Cash Rate Steady Amid Inflationary Pressures
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is anticipated to maintain its cash rate at 3.60% during the upcoming December 9 meeting, with projections indicating this rate will persist through 2026.
- APRA Implements New Cap on High DTI Home Loans
In response to escalating property prices and accelerated credit growth, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a new regulatory measure to cap high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans.
- ASIC Highlights Concerns in Rapidly Growing Private Lending Sector
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has conducted a comprehensive review of the private lending sector, revealing significant inconsistencies and deficiencies. This scrutiny comes in response to the sector's rapid growth, with private credit extending approximately $200 billion in loans, primarily to higher-risk real estate players and property developers.
- APRA's New Cap on High DTI Home Loans: What Borrowers Need to Know
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market.
- CBA's Profit Marginally Up Despite Intense Mortgage Market Competition
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), the nation's largest lender, has reported a modest increase in its first-quarter cash profit, driven by robust growth in home loans and household deposits. The unaudited cash profit for the quarter reached approximately A$2.
- Non-Bank Lenders Face Increased Oversight Amid Surge in Property Loan Applications
The Australian financial landscape is witnessing a notable shift as an increasing number of borrowers turn to non-bank lenders for property loans.
- Westpac Eases Home Loan Access for Self-Employed Borrowers
Westpac Banking Corporation has announced significant changes to its home loan application process, specifically designed to assist self-employed Australians. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by this demographic, the bank has introduced a streamlined approach that reduces the documentation required, thereby expediting the approval process.
- CBA Implements Stricter Lending Criteria for Companies and Trusts
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has revised its lending policies concerning companies and trusts, introducing stricter criteria that necessitate existing banking relationships for loan applicants. Effective November 22, 2025, this change applies to broker-introduced applications for non-individual borrowers.
- RBA Maintains Cash Rate at 3.60% Amidst Inflationary Pressures
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to keep the official cash rate steady at 3.60% during its November 2025 meeting. This decision reflects the central bank's ongoing concerns about inflation, which has risen above the target range of 2–3% and is expected to remain elevated for some time.
- ANZ Bank Adjusts Cash Rate Forecast: No Cuts Anticipated Until 2026
ANZ Bank has revised its cash rate forecast, now expecting no cuts until February 2026. This adjustment aligns with similar revisions by other major banks, reflecting a collective response to recent economic data and RBA communications.
- RBA's November 2025 Statement: Inflation Trends and Economic Projections
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has released its November 2025 Statement on Monetary Policy, highlighting concerns about rising inflation and providing insights into the future of the Australian economy.
- RBA Holds Cash Rate at 3.60% in November 2025
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to keep the official cash rate unchanged at 3.60% during its November 2025 meeting. This decision reflects the central bank's cautious approach in balancing inflation control with employment objectives.
- ANZ Revises RBA Rate Cut Forecast to February 2026
ANZ has adjusted its forecast regarding the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) next cash rate cut, now anticipating the reduction to occur in February 2026. This revision aligns with similar adjustments by other major banks, reflecting a collective response to recent economic data and RBA communications.
- Australian Mortgage Brokers Anticipate Competitive Shifts in 2025
The Australian mortgage broking industry is poised for significant changes in 2025, with increased competition and evolving market dynamics shaping the landscape. Factors such as anticipated interest rate adjustments, a surge in refinancing activities, and the growing influence of digital marketing are key drivers of this transformation.
- ANZ Bank's Record Fine for Regulatory Misconduct
In September 2025, ANZ Bank agreed to pay a record A$240 million fine following investigations by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) into multiple regulatory breaches. This penalty highlights the importance of compliance and ethical practices within the banking sector.
- CBA's Record Profit Fueled by Lending Expansion
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has reported a record full-year cash profit of A$10.25 billion for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This impressive performance is primarily attributed to robust growth in both home and business lending.
- Westpac Implements $177 Million Restructuring Charge in Second Half of Fiscal 2025
Westpac Banking Corporation has reported a restructuring charge of A$273 million (approximately $177.72 million USD) for the second half of fiscal year 2025. This move is part of the bank's ongoing 'Fit for Growth' program, which focuses on strategic cost management and performance improvement.
- Australia's Unemployment Rate Climbs to 4.5% in September 2025
In September 2025, Australia's unemployment rate increased to 4.5%, marking the highest level since November 2021. This rise surpassed economists' expectations of 4.3% and has reignited discussions about potential interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA).
- Reserve Bank of Australia Reports Early Signs of Loosening Financial Conditions Following Rate Cuts
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has observed early signs of loosening financial conditions following three interest rate cuts in 2025, which have brought the rate down to 3.6%. According to RBA Assistant Governor Christopher Kent, credit availability for households and businesses has improved as a result of these adjustments.
- Star Entertainment Group Secures Loan Covenant Waiver Amid Financial Challenges
Star Entertainment Group, a prominent Australian casino operator, has successfully secured a loan covenant waiver under its syndicated facility agreement as of September 30, 2025. This development comes at a critical juncture for the company, which has been navigating a series of financial and operational challenges.
- ANZ Bank Faces A$240 Million Penalty for Bond Deal Misconduct and Customer Service Failures
ANZ Group, Australia's fourth-largest bank, has agreed to pay a record A$240 million ($159.5 million) in penalties following investigations by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) for major misconduct.
- Commonwealth Bank of Australia Achieves Record A$10.25 Billion Profit Amid Lending Surge
Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has reported a record full-year cash profit of A$10.25 billion ($6.69 billion) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This impressive performance is attributed to robust growth in both home and business lending, coupled with stable interest margins.
- DBS Bank Targets A$20 Billion in Australian Lending Amidst Strengthening Trade Ties
DBS Bank, Singapore's largest lender, has announced ambitious plans to double its Australian lending book from A$11 billion to A$20 billion over the next five years. This strategic expansion aims to capitalize on the growing trade relationships between Australia and Southeast Asian nations, including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
- Japanese Banks SMBC and MUFG Drive Growth in Australian Business Lending
In a notable shift within Australia's financial sector, Japanese banking giants Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) have emerged as key drivers of growth in business lending.
- Commonwealth Bank's Profit Boosted by Business Lending Growth
Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has reported a 6% increase in its quarterly profit, reaching $2.6 billion. This growth is primarily attributed to a substantial surge in business lending, with the bank's business loan portfolio expanding by 9.1% over the three months ending in March.
- RBA Highlights Growth of Private Credit in Business Lending
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has reported that private credit now constitutes 11% of all business lending in the country. This marks a significant shift towards non-bank financing, as businesses seek alternative funding sources amid evolving economic conditions.
- RBA's Latest Rate Cut Expected to Boost Property Market
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has implemented its third rate cut for 2025, a move anticipated to invigorate the property market. This decision comes as the average new loan size reaches record highs, reflecting increased borrowing capacity among Australians.
- Surge in Business and Home Lending Reported by RBA
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has reported a significant acceleration in both business and home lending, challenging earlier predictions of a potential slowdown. As of the end of December, business credit growth reached 8.9%, marking the highest rate since May 2023 and showing an increase from 8.6% in November.
- Private Lending's Rapid Growth: Opportunities and Risks for Brokers
The Australian financial landscape is witnessing a significant shift as private lending experiences rapid growth, presenting both opportunities and challenges for brokers. This expansion is driven by the demand for flexible funding solutions, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking alternatives to traditional bank loans.
- Beforepay Group Introduces New Personal Loan Offering
Beforepay Group, an ethical-lending fintech established in 2019, has announced the launch of its latest financial product—the Beforepay Personal Loan. This new offering aims to provide Australians with safe and affordable lending options, complementing the company's existing Pay Advance and Tax Refund Advance services.
- Surge in Business and Home Lending Reported by RBA
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has reported a significant acceleration in both business and home lending, challenging earlier predictions of a potential slowdown. As of the end of December, business credit growth reached 8.9%, marking the highest rate since May 2023 and showing an increase from 8.6% in November.
