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.
Borrowers expecting a reduction in interest rates due to sluggish economic growth might have to wait longer, as the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) prioritizes inflation management.
Though the economy is experiencing a downturn, RBA Governor Michele Bullock emphasizes that the demand for goods and services still outstrips supply capabilities.
"It's understandable that people think a slower economy should lead to rate cuts, but we need tangible inflation improvement before making such a move," Bullock stated during her speech on Thursday.
This comes in the wake of a modest 0.2% economic growth in the June quarter, with an annual increase holding at 1%, marking the lowest since the 1991 recession outside the pandemic period.
The slowdown was anticipated as a consequence of maintained high-interest rates aimed at dampening demand to curb inflation.
Despite slowing growth, Bullock pointed out that demand remains high partly because post-pandemic resurgence has sustained some strength in the economy.
She also mentioned the ongoing underperformance on the supply side, particularly in productivity growth.
"It's a matter of growth rates versus levels," she explained at the Anika Foundation Fundraising Lunch, indicating that inflation persists due to demand remaining higher than supply capabilities.
This protracted wait for interest rate cuts is challenging for the federal government, which faces scrutiny over its budgetary decisions and their impact on inflation.
Bullock acknowledged that both federal and state governments are wrestling with inflation as it directly affects their regions' residents.
When asked if Treasurer Jim Chalmers was shifting blame to the RBA, Bullock refrained from commenting directly but clarified both were committed to their roles.
The opposition has leveraged the national accounts to criticize the government, with Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor suggesting a conflict between government spending and RBA's inflation control measures.
In defense, Finance Minister Katy Gallagher highlighted that the government's expenditure was strategically targeted to support the economy without exacerbating inflation;
"Had the government not provided necessary aid during this period, the economic figures would have been worse," Gallagher told ABC TV on Thursday.
Bullock further dedicated significant portions of her speech to the hazards posed by stubborn high inflation.
She cautioned that although inflation expectations are stable, this stability is not guaranteed. A scenario of expected consistent price rises could necessitate further interest rate hikes.
"In that case, we would need to throttle the economy more, leading to higher unemployment and potential recession," she warned.
Prolonged inflation risks pushing more borrowers, particularly those with lower incomes, into mortgage stress and potentially forcing home sales.
"High inflation is why there is so much cost of living discussion — it adversely affects everyone, especially the most vulnerable,†Bullock concluded.
Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.
Australia’s vehicle market is showing signs of a more cautious buyer mood, with recent industry updates pointing to softer momentum after a strong run in new-car demand. For households and small businesses, that shift matters because it can change the balance of power at the dealership. When stock levels improve and buyers become more selective, driveaway offers, trade-in negotiations and model availability can all become more flexible. - read more
Australian borrowers have been given a little more certainty after the Reserve Bank of Australia left the cash rate unchanged at 4.35%, shifting attention from further rate rises to how long higher borrowing costs may remain in place. For anyone planning to finance a new car, used vehicle, ute or business vehicle, the decision is welcome, but it is not the same as relief. - read more
Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard is now a key factor for anyone planning to buy a new car, ute or SUV. The policy is designed to push the local market towards lower-emission vehicles by setting annual efficiency targets for manufacturers and importers. While the rules apply to suppliers rather than individual motorists, the flow-on effects may still be felt at the dealership and in loan decisions. - read more
Australian car buyers have been given a fresh reminder this month that a low advertised interest rate is only one part of the finance decision. Canstar’s July 2026 car loan comparison update shows secured car loan offers starting from 5.67% for a $50,000 loan over five years, with MoneyPlace and Stratton Finance both appearing at that headline rate in the snapshot. - read more
Australian car buyers have a fresh reminder this week that the lowest advertised rate is not always the same as the cheapest loan. Canstar's latest July 2026 car loan comparison update shows secured car loan offers starting from 5.67% for a $50,000 loan over five years, with MoneyPlace and Stratton Finance both appearing at that headline rate in the snapshot. However, their comparison rates differ, underlining why the total loan cost needs closer attention. - read more
A new Australian Finance Industry Association report, released on 5 June 2026, highlights how important non-bank lenders have become in the vehicle finance market. According to the report, motor finance non-bank lenders helped 507,000 consumer and commercial customers buy vehicles in 2025, providing $24.4 billion in loans. By the end of that year, their active loan books were worth $53 billion. - read more
In May 2026, electric vehicles (EVs) achieved a significant milestone in Australia, accounting for 20% of all new car sales. This development indicates a substantial shift in consumer preferences towards more sustainable transportation options. - read more
Entering the realm of self-employment brings with it not only the freedom to be your own boss but also unique challenges, especially when it comes to securing financing for significant purchases like a car. For the self-employed, the path to obtaining a car loan can be fraught with additional hurdles, stemming from the variable nature of their income and the scrutiny lenders apply to their financial profiles. - read more
Personal and commercial car loans can look similar, but they are assessed and structured differently. This guide explains how loan purpose, vehicle use, documentation, tax considerations and borrower obligations may differ in Australia. - read more
Self-employed Australians may be able to apply for a car loan without standard payslips, but a low doc car loan still requires evidence that income is reliable and repayments are affordable. This guide explains how low documentation vehicle finance works, what alternative income documents may be accepted, and what trade-offs borrowers should consider. - read more
A secured car loan uses the vehicle as security for the finance. This guide explains what that means in Australia, how PPSR registration works, how secured loans differ from unsecured loans, and the risks borrowers should understand before applying. - read more
Comparing car loan rates in Australia means looking beyond the advertised interest rate. This guide explains how interest rates, comparison rates, fees, loan terms, balloon payments and lender criteria can affect the total cost of car finance. - read more
Specialist lenders are financial institutions that offer tailored loan products to meet the unique needs of borrowers who may not be well-served by traditional banks. These lenders often have more flexible lending criteria and can accommodate a broader range of financial situations. - read more
Knowledgebase
Portfolio: A range of investments held by an individual or institution.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.