Each week, we distil Australia’s automotive and mobility headlines into a concise, trustworthy update. Expect clear summaries of car market movements, policy and regulation shifts, technology and safety developments, and broader economic trends shaping how Australians drive and do business. Designed for busy professionals and everyday drivers, it’s your balanced, plain-English recap to stay informed and make confident decisions—without the noise.
This Week:
RBA holds the cash rate at about 4.35% on 16 June, keeping borrowing power tight; plan your budget and check eligibility before shopping. A small‑business lender warns of rising bad debts on 25 June, signalling tighter scrutiny for SME vehicle finance; prepare BAS and consider pre‑approval. On 19 June, government outlines CGT concessions for small businesses and start‑ups, with consultation to 10 July and changes from 1 July 2027; consider structure and finance options with advice. Also on 19 June, a major bank is fined $35m over scam losses; verify payment details for car purchases and use secure processes.
EPISODE 2206 | Car Loans Online News Brief | Fri, 26th Jun 2026
30 Jun 2026 | Paige Estritori
00:00:00
00:00:00
1x
Read Full Transcript:
Welcome to Car Loans Online News Brief; Im Paige Estritori, and its Friday, 26 June 2026.
On 16 June, the Reserve Bank of Australia, or RBA, left the cash rate at about four point three five per cent. For car buyers and small businesses, that keeps borrowing power tight, and lenders can still reprice out of cycle. If youre planning a purchase, set a clear budget and use a quick eligibility check before you visit the dealer; comparing offers now can save time and back‑and‑forth later.
Next up, yesterday, 25 June, a specialist small‑business lenders shares slumped after it revealed a small cluster of bad loans and higher risk costs. Its a reminder that lenders are watching cash flow and buffers closely, especially for small and medium businesses. If you need a work vehicle or van, have Business Activity Statements, or BAS, bank statements and invoices ready, and consider a broker‑led pre‑approval to keep your options open.
Meanwhile, on 19 June, the government outlined capital gains tax, or CGT, concessions that lift the small‑business turnover threshold for the 50 per cent active‑asset discount from two million dollars to ten million, and flagged a new concession for innovative start‑ups. Consultation closes 10 July, with changes due from 1 July 2027. For founders and family businesses, this could influence whether you buy a vehicle in the business or another way; check the tax angle with your adviser, while we help compare finance options like chattel mortgages and leases.
Also on 19 June, a major bank was fined about thirty‑five million dollars after customers lost around twenty‑three million to scams, and the corporate regulator, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, or ASIC, called the failures widespread. When youre moving large sums for a car purchase, verify payee details, avoid links in texts, and insist on secure payment steps; your broker should never ask you to redirect funds at the last minute.
Thats the wrap. For a free eligibility assessment and a side‑by‑side car loan comparison, head to car‑loans‑online dot com dot au and well guide you every step.
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.
Securing the keys to a new car is an exhilarating experience for any Australian buyer. However, before the rubber meets the road, making an informed decision about car financing is critical. The car loan landscape in Australia offers a variety of options, each with its unique benefits and challenges. Choosing the right car loan can significantly influence your financial well-being and drive your satisfaction with your purchase. - read more
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
Australians have a variety of car financing options at their disposal when the time comes to purchase a new vehicle. From dealer finance to personal loans and leasing agreements, the variety of choices can be both empowering and, at times, overwhelming. Opting for a car loan is a common route, giving buyers the ability to spread the cost of their new set of wheels over time. - read more
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
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
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
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
Australia’s motor finance market is changing quickly, and the latest report from the Australian Finance Industry Association, released on 5 June 2026, puts non-bank vehicle lenders firmly in the spotlight. The report says motor finance non-bank lenders supported 507,000 consumer and commercial vehicle purchases in 2025, with $24.4 billion in new loans and $53 billion in active loan balances at year end. - read more
As the end of the financial year approaches, GWM has unveiled enticing offers for Australian car buyers, focusing on both traditional and electric vehicle (EV) markets. These promotions are designed to cater to a diverse range of consumers, from those seeking low-interest financing to individuals interested in the latest EV models. - read more
In its June 2026 meeting, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) decided to keep the official cash rate steady at 4.35%. This decision comes after a series of rate hikes earlier in the year, reflecting the central bank's cautious approach amid ongoing economic uncertainties. - read more
Peter Warren Automotive Holdings, a prominent Australian dealer group, has revised its profit forecast for the fiscal year 2026, projecting an underlying profit before tax between $12 million and $15 million. This adjustment reflects the company's response to challenging market conditions that have impacted trading margins and overall financial performance. - read more
In a strategic move to address growing consumer demand and intensifying competition, Toyota Australia has secured an additional 10,000 vehicles for the 2026 market. This increase elevates the company's full-year sales forecast to 220,000 units, with popular models such as the RAV4, HiLux, and the all-electric bZ4X set to benefit from the expanded supply. - read more
In a significant ruling, the Federal Court has ordered Money3 Loans Pty Ltd to pay penalties totaling $1.55 million for breaching responsible lending obligations in the provision of car finance to vulnerable consumers. This decision underscores the critical importance of adhering to responsible lending practices within the financial services industry. - read more
In May 2026, electric vehicles (EVs) achieved a significant milestone in the Australian automotive market, accounting for 20% of all new car sales. This development underscores a rapid shift in consumer preferences towards more sustainable transportation options. - read more
Get a free car loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored
specifically to your circumstances.
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without
obligation. We respect your
privacy.
Knowledgebase
Bond: A fixed-income investment in which an investor loans money to an entity that borrows the funds for a defined period at a variable or fixed interest rate.
