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.
The Treasury has rolled out a fresh update to the lending landscape with the release of the Treasury Laws Amendment Instrument 2024: Small Business Exemption, bringing new changes up for public discussion.
The proposed regulations, aimed at modifying the National Consumer Credit Protection Regulations 2010, will push the deadline of the current small business lending exemption to October 3, 2026, from its original expiry of October 3, 2024.
Essentially, this extension means that loans serving both personal and legitimate business purposes-where the business component isn't marginal-will remain exempt from responsible lending regulations.
Current consumer credit laws, highlighted in Chapter 3 of the National Credit Act, generally bypass commercial funding. However, mixed-purpose loans (for example, blending personal and commercial finance needs) are subject to these laws unless it is evident that the primary use is for business.
Eligibility for the exemption defines a small business as having fewer than 100 employees or recording revenue of $5 million or below in the last fiscal year.
Extending the exemption offers more runtime for gathering data, which will aid in making a well-informed future decision about whether the exemption should become permanent, expire, or be altered to boost efficacy.
This approach appears to shed light on the adaptability of lending regulations, pushing boundaries for the benefit of small business dynamics within the evolving market landscape.
Source: Initially reported by David Jacobson, Bright Corporate Law Principal.
Disclaimer: This information is shared for informative purposes and should not be considered as legal advice. Always seek expert consultation to address specific needs before acting on any information provided.
Published:Thursday, 15th Aug 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
In January 2026, Australia's business lending landscape reached a significant milestone, with authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) reporting a combined total of $1.2 trillion in loans to non-financial businesses. This marks a 9.3% increase over the previous year and a substantial 53.9% growth since January 2020. Among the major players, National Australia Bank (NAB) continues to lead, boasting a loan book of $261.1 billion, reflecting an 11.6% year-on-year growth. - read more
In a strategic effort to bolster its presence in the business lending sector, Westpac Banking Corporation has announced a significant restructuring of its operations. The bank plans to replace a substantial number of in-branch tellers with business bankers, aiming to enhance support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Australia. - read more
In response to the escalating demand for small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) financing, Renown Lending has announced an expansion of its funding pool from $250 million to $400 million. This substantial increase is designed to provide fast and flexible funding solutions to SMEs across all Australian states. - read more
National Australia Bank (NAB) has reported a significant 7% year-on-year growth in its business lending portfolio, bringing the total to $336.2 billion. This growth underscores NAB's commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Australia. - read more
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has announced a substantial 12% increase in its business lending portfolio, reaching $168 billion in the first half of 2026. This growth rate exceeds the bank's compound annual growth rate of 10.7%, indicating a strong performance in the business lending sector. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has raised the official cash rate by 0.25 percentage points to 3.85%, marking the first increase in over two years. This decision, driven by persistent inflationary pressures, has significant implications for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country. - read more
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has reported a significant 12% increase in its business lending portfolio, reaching $168 billion by December 2025. This growth underscores the bank's commitment to supporting Australian businesses and reflects a broader economic confidence among enterprises. - read more
Financial planning plays a crucial role when businesses are poised for growth. As enterprises expand, a well-crafted financial plan acts as a guiding framework to navigate the complexities that come with scaling operations. This plan helps in ensuring that resources are meticulously allocated and potential financial hurdles are effectively managed. - read more
Starting a business often requires a substantial amount of capital, which many new business owners may not have readily available. Business loans can provide the necessary funding to help get your startup off the ground, from purchasing equipment to hiring staff and everything in between. - read more
For many Australian entrepreneurs, a business loan is a vital step towards achieving growth and success. Access to capital can fuel expansion, help manage cash flow, and provide the necessary resources to capitalize on new opportunities. However, navigating the journey from application to approval, and eventually, to expansion, presents its own set of challenges. - read more
In the ever-evolving landscape of Australian business, equipment leasing has emerged as a pivotal financial tool for companies across the spectrum. Whether you're a small start-up or a well-established corporation, the agility to pivot and adapt to market changes is critical. This introduction seeks to shed light on the concept of equipment leasing and its significance in bolstering the operational efficiency of Australian businesses. - read more
Securing financing is a pivotal step for any startup looking to establish itself and grow. In Australia, the startup lending landscape is buoyant, offering a mix of traditional and innovative financing options. The financial ecosystem is robust yet competitive, and understanding how to navigate it is crucial for new business owners. - read more
Effective planning is the backbone of any thriving business, and when it comes to leveraging financial products like business loans, this foresight becomes even more crucial. In the dynamic economic landscape of Australia, businesses are continually walking a tightrope, balancing investment, growth, and financial stability. The importance of prudent and strategic planning for business loan utilization cannot be overstated; it can mean the difference between a flourishing enterprise and one that struggles to keep its head above water. - read more
Embarking on a business endeavor often requires substantial financial support, and securing a business loan can be a crucial step towards progress and expansion. A well-prepared loan application not only showcases your business in its best light but also significantly enhances the prospects of obtaining the needed funds. Attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the lending process can streamline your journey to approval. - 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
Balloon Payment: A large payment due at the end of a balloon loan, usually after a series of smaller payments.