FOLLOW US
Follow us!

We are a proud member of the Financial Services Online network!

Connect with us on your favourite social media platform for the latest financial news, views, tips, tricks, resources and information.

Follow us on social media
Car Loans Online
Australian Online Car Loan Specialists.
Car Loans Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

RBA Rate Cut Sparks Surge in Australian Consumer Confidence

RBA Rate Cut Sparks Surge in Australian Consumer Confidence

RBA Rate Cut Sparks Surge in Australian Consumer Confidence?w=400

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 Reserve Bank of Australia’s recent decision to reduce the official interest rate by 25 basis points to 4.1 per cent in February has invigorated consumer confidence, reaching a three-year high.
The upswing in sentiment began in late 2024 but waned slightly over the holiday season.
However, March data from the Westpac-Melbourne Institute consumer sentiment index indicates a recovery, driven by the RBA's interest rate cut and easing cost pressures.

Westpac’s Matthew Hassan noted that the central bank’s rate reduction, the first since 2020, substantially improved buyer sentiment and overall economic outlook. Employment expectations also improved, albeit despite the unemployment rate lifting slightly to 4.1 per cent in January-remaining historically low.

CreditorWatch's Ivan Colhoun observed a significant uplift in Westpac's unemployment expectations sub-component, suggesting possible declines in unemployment. While external challenges, particularly those related to global trade and tariffs, persist, the Australian labour market starts from a robust position.

Global developments, notably concerning US President Donald Trump's administration's tariffs, have caused consumer unease despite positive domestic conditions. This international tension is a focal point for Australia’s economic strategy moving forward.

Complementary to consumer sentiment, National Australia Bank reported a slight rise in business conditions in February, although a decline in business confidence nearly counteracts these gains. According to NAB’s Alan Oster, the services sector remains strong, while mining lags, reflecting a cautious business outlook despite positive GDP growth and the RBA rate cut.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics recently confirmed a 0.6 per cent economic growth in Q4 2024, moving the nation out of a per capita recession. Nonetheless, the persistence of input cost pressures showcases the ongoing hurdles businesses face amid moderate economic improvements.

Published:Wednesday, 12th Mar 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

ASIC's Review Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
ASIC's Review Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
21 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review of the nation's motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant issues that raise concerns about consumer protection and lending practices. - read more
ASIC's Review Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
ASIC's Review Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review of the nation's motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant issues that raise concerns about consumer protection and lending practices. - read more
Australian Used Hybrid Car Sales Experience Significant Growth
Australian Used Hybrid Car Sales Experience Significant Growth
13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian used car market is witnessing a notable surge in hybrid vehicle sales, reflecting a growing consumer inclination towards sustainable and practical transportation options. - read more
Commonwealth Bank's AI Assistant Revolutionizes Car Market Price Discovery
Commonwealth Bank's AI Assistant Revolutionizes Car Market Price Discovery
13 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has unveiled a pioneering artificial intelligence (AI) assistant designed to enhance price discovery and transparency in the Australian car market. This innovative tool aims to empower consumers by providing detailed insights into vehicle pricing, a resource previously accessible primarily to car dealers. - read more
ASIC's Investigation Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
ASIC's Investigation Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
05 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review of the nation's motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant issues that raise concerns about consumer protection and lending practices. - read more
CBA's AI Assistant Revolutionises Car Market Price Discovery
CBA's AI Assistant Revolutionises Car Market Price Discovery
05 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has unveiled a pioneering artificial intelligence (AI) assistant designed to enhance price discovery and transparency in the Australian car market. This innovative tool aims to empower consumers by providing detailed insights into vehicle pricing, a resource previously accessible primarily to car dealers. - read more
New Government Initiative Provides Low-Interest Loans for Electric Vehicles
New Government Initiative Provides Low-Interest Loans for Electric Vehicles
05 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant move to promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) among Australian businesses, the government has announced a $50 million partnership with Metro Finance to provide low-interest loans for the purchase of EVs. This initiative is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in transitioning to cleaner transportation options, thereby reducing emissions and energy costs. - read more
Click for more Finance News


Car Loans Articles

Understanding Loan Criteria: Tips for Australian Car Buyers
Understanding Loan Criteria: Tips for Australian Car Buyers
Loan criteria refer to the set of standards and requirements that lenders use to evaluate the eligibility of an applicant for a car loan. These criteria help lenders determine the risk associated with lending money to a potential borrower. - read more
The Top 7 Factors Lenders Consider for Car Loan Approval
The Top 7 Factors Lenders Consider for Car Loan Approval
For many Australians, buying a car is a significant milestones. Understanding the factors that influence car loan approval can make this process smoother and more successful. Knowing what lenders prioritise not only enhances your chances of approval but also helps you negotiate better terms. - read more
Car Financing 101: Protecting Your Credit While Seeking a Car Loan
Car Financing 101: Protecting Your Credit While Seeking a Car Loan
Welcome to Car Financing 101: the essential guide to navigating the car loan landscape in Australia. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced motorist looking to upgrade, understanding how to protect your credit while securing finance is crucial. As you embark on this journey, maintaining a steadfast grip on your credit health can be the difference between a deal that drives you forward and one that stalls progress. - read more
How to Improve Your Chances of Car Loan Approval
How to Improve Your Chances of Car Loan Approval
Purchasing a car is a significant milestone for many Australians, but securing a loan to finance that purchase can often be a challenging endeavor. Whether you're buying your first car or upgrading to a new model, getting your car loan approved is a critical step in the process. - read more
A Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your Pre-Approved Car Loan in Australia
A Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your Pre-Approved Car Loan in Australia
A pre-approved car loan is a financial agreement where a lender approves a borrower for a specific loan amount before the borrower selects a vehicle. This type of loan sets a clear budget, giving car buyers a defined spending limit while providing a streamlined and efficient car shopping experience. - read more
Don't Sign Yet! Checklist for Negotiating Car Loan Agreements
Don't Sign Yet! Checklist for Negotiating Car Loan Agreements
Embarking on the journey to purchase a new car is an exhilarating experience, full of the promise of fresh adventures and the satisfaction of ownership. Yet, beneath the sheen and thrill, important financial decisions are at play, particularly when it comes to your car loan agreement. Understanding the importance of negotiating the terms of your car loan cannot be overstated, as a savvy deal can lead to significant savings over time. - read more
Navigating Your Credit Score: How It Affects Your Car Financing Options
Navigating Your Credit Score: How It Affects Your Car Financing Options
Understanding your credit score is a key part of navigating the world of car financing. Whether you're looking to buy your first vehicle or you're an established buyer considering an upgrade, your credit score can significantly impact your financing options. In this section, we'll delve into why your credit score is so essential and provide a primer on how it's calculated. - read more


Need Help Finding a Loan?
Get a free car loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored specifically to your circumstances.
Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.

All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Inflation:
The rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises, eroding purchasing power.


This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.
IMPORTANT: We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.