Each week, we distil the most important Australian business stories into a clear, time‑saving wrap. Expect concise headlines, context on policy and regulation, notable industry moves, technology shifts, and trends shaping operations and growth. Designed for owners, entrepreneurs and decision-makers, you’ll get what matters, why it matters, and practical takeaways to act with confidence. A trustworthy, industry‑specific summary you can rely on, delivered consistently and straight to the point.
This Week:
Paige covers four developments for Australian SMEs: the Senates extension of the $20,000 instant asset write‑off; monthly CPI showing sticky inflation that delays sharp RBA rate cuts; mixed risk signals with sentiment up but payment defaults and insolvencies still elevated; and industry pushback on a proposed RBA ban on card surcharges. Takeaways focus on timing asset purchases, budgeting for steady borrowing costs, tightening cash‑flow controls, and reassessing payment strategies. Listeners are invited to learn more at business-loans.com.au.
EPISODE 946 | Business Loans Australia Weekly News Briefing | Sun, 30th Nov 2025
3 Dec 2025 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to the Business Loans Australia Weekly News Briefing, Im Paige Estritori, and its Sunday, 30 November 2025.
First, the instant asset write‑off extension is back on the books. The Senate passed legislation to extend the $20,000 instant asset write‑off for small businesses this financial year. That lets eligible firms immediately deduct qualifying purchases under the cap, improving after‑tax cash flow. If youre planning equipment or vehicle upgrades, check eligibility and timing, and consider whether a tailored loan with flexible repayments helps you spread costs while preserving working capital.
Next up, the Australian Bureau of Statistics first full monthly Consumer Price Index, or CPI, showed annual inflation running at about 3.8%, with the trimmed mean at about 3.3%. That keeps pressure on the Reserve Bank of Australia, or RBA, making sharp rate cuts unlikely near term. For borrowers, it means budgeting for steady borrowing costs a little longer. Compare options now so you can lock in finance structures that fit your cash cycle—secured or unsecured, with terms that wont crimp day‑to‑day operations.
Meanwhile, new business risk data points to a fragile recovery. Hospitality, construction and arts are seeing fewer closures than earlier in the year, and consumer sentiment has lifted. But trade payment defaults jumped in October and insolvencies remain elevated, especially in retail. Keep a close eye on debtor days, use credit checks where you can, and consider facilities that smooth cash flow so youre not forced into short‑notice, high‑cost funding.
Finally, the RBAs proposed ban on card surcharges is drawing fire from industry. Travel operators warn that removing credit card surcharging could push payment costs into base prices or service fees, lifting costs for everyone. If you rely on card payments, model what absorbing fees would do to margins, and review your mix of payment options now so any switch doesnt derail cash flow.
Thats the wrap. For clear explanations of business financing options—and to explore tailored loan solutions with flexible terms and a streamlined online application—head to business-loans.com.au. Im Paige Estritori; thanks for listening and have a productive week.
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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