Loans For Cars :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Banks Under Fire for High Fees on Low-Income Accounts

Banks Under Fire for High Fees on Low-Income Accounts

Banks Under Fire for High Fees on Low-Income Accounts?w=400
A directive from Australian regulators is set to benefit nearly two million Australians, primarily from lower income groups, as major financial institutions were mandated to refund $28 million in excessive fees collected over the years.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) unveiled in a recent investigation that numerous banks, including ANZ, Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, and Westpac, continued to charge exorbitant fees to customers who could scarcely afford them, with First Nations and welfare-dependent customers disproportionately affected.

This revelation emerged from the "Better Banking for Indigenous" report, which detailed the systemic negligence in transitioning low-income users to more suitable financial products. Consequently, the auditors have prompted these banking giants to refund their customers.

Social media buzz reflected customers' surprise as unexpected deposits appeared in their accounts. For instance, a Commonwealth Bank user reported an unexplained credit of $105, while others saw amounts as high as $777.64, bringing a mix of confusion and relief.

ASIC Commissioner Alan Kirkland criticized the banks, stating, "Financial distress caused by unnecessary fees and complex banking choices puts undue pressure on low-income families. The banks were aware, yet ASIC had to intervene to rectify this injustice."

Kirkland noted the cumbersome 'opt-in' processes banks offered for their low-fee alternatives, which often necessitated consumers traveling vast distances for assistance, thus deterring many from switching accounts.

This report, he pointed out, isn't isolated. "This marks the second incident in two months highlighting the shortfalls in customer-centered operations. The banking industry must prioritize consumer welfare to prevent such issues from recurring," he asserted.

Beyond compensation, the report underscores broader implications of banking inequities on household budgets. Kirkland stressed the urgency for banks to seamlessly facilitate the transition to fee-reducing products, ensuring accessibility for all Australians, including those in remote locales.

Quoting findings shared by NewsWire, it's understood banks have since migrated over 200,000 customers to low-fee accounts. This strategic move is projected to save users an estimated $10.7 million annually, reinforcing the necessity for the entire financial sector to reevaluate and enhance the availability of their low-cost services.

Published:Monday, 7th Oct 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Finance News

Improving EOFY Planning: The Call for ATO Portal Access for Advisers Improving EOFY Planning: The Call for ATO Portal Access for Advisers
09 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

In a recent discussion, James O'Reilly, Director and Financial Planner at Northeast Wealth, underscored the benefits that could come from granting financial advisers access to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) portal. Speaking on The ifa Show, O'Reilly proposed that this access would significantly simplify the services financial advisers provide to clients, particularly at tax time and the end of the financial year (EOFY). - read more
RBA Holds Rates Steady, Shocking Markets and Shifting Economic Expectations RBA Holds Rates Steady, Shocking Markets and Shifting Economic Expectations
09 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to keep the official cash rate steady at 3.85%, taking many by surprise after expectations of a 25-basis-point cut had built up in financial circles. This unexpected move comes amid recent data indicating easing inflation and weaker than anticipated economic growth, conflicting with prior predictions of a cut. - read more
RBA to Continue Interest Rate Cuts Amid High Unemployment RBA to Continue Interest Rate Cuts Amid High Unemployment
08 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is anticipated to maintain its trajectory of incremental interest rate reductions, according to insights from leading financial analysts at ANZ. Recent data from the ANZ-Indeed Australian Job Ads series revealed a rise from 114.8 in May to 116.9 in June, suggesting a potential rebound in job advertisements after previous declines. Despite a stable unemployment rate and hours-based underutilisation rate since mid-2024, the Australian labour market remains strained. - read more
RBA Poised for Cash Rate Cut Amid Inflationary Trends RBA Poised for Cash Rate Cut Amid Inflationary Trends
07 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

As the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) prepares for its forthcoming monetary policy announcement, economic analysts anticipate a further reduction in the official cash rate by 25 basis points. This prediction, supported by Finder’s RBA Cash Rate Survey, reveals that 88% of participating experts foresee a cut that would lower the interest rate to 3.6%, aligning the decision with the recent decline in both headline and core inflation to the central bank's target range of two to three percent. - read more
Uncovering the Impact of Unsolicited Solar Sales on Consumers Uncovering the Impact of Unsolicited Solar Sales on Consumers
04 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

In a concerning revelation, Australian retiree Christine Hirchfield shares her ordeal with an unsolicited solar installation that turned into a financial nightmare. Despite her initial enthusiasm for cheaper energy bills and a greener home, the project remains incomplete more than a year later. Consumer groups are now advocating for a nationwide prohibition on deceptive sales practices that target vulnerable consumers like Ms Hirchfield. - read more
Australian Online Retail Sees Continued Growth in May Amidst Nationwide Spending Surge Australian Online Retail Sees Continued Growth in May Amidst Nationwide Spending Surge
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

Australian online retail sales experienced a modest rise in May, as consumers continued to invest in fashion, games, and toys. According to the latest figures from the National Australia Bank, there was a 0.7% increase in online sales for the month, compared to a 1.1% growth in April. Over the past year, Australians have spent approximately $63 billion on online retail purchases. - read more
Pay Boosts and Policy Changes: A Closer Look at Financial Updates for Australian Workers Pay Boosts and Policy Changes: A Closer Look at Financial Updates for Australian Workers
03 Jul 2025: Paige Estritori

The starting days of the new financial year bring significant changes for Australian workers, particularly those on minimum wage. As of Tuesday, the minimum wage will rise by 3.5 per cent, increasing hourly earnings to $24.95, or $948 weekly. This adjustment also affects award wages and comes as a response to rising living costs, outpacing current inflation rates. - read more


Car Loans Articles

Understanding Specialist Lenders: The Secret to Better Car Loan Terms Understanding Specialist Lenders: The Secret to Better Car Loan Terms
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
Your Ultimate Guide to Car Finance in Australia: Top Tips for Finding the Best Deals Your Ultimate Guide to Car Finance in Australia: Top Tips for Finding the Best Deals
Car finance in Australia presents a myriad of options for those looking to purchase a vehicle through a payment plan. Understanding how car finance works is crucial to navigating this complex landscape and finding a deal that aligns with your financial goals. From loans offered by banks and credit unions to dealer financing and specialised car finance companies, the choices are extensive. - read more
Insurance Renewal Approaching? Tips to Ensure You're Still Getting the Best Rate! Insurance Renewal Approaching? Tips to Ensure You're Still Getting the Best Rate!
Is it that time of the year again when your car insurance is up for renewal? Often, it comes as a reminder in the mail or a notification from your insurer. But instead of instinctively renewing your existing policy, let's pause and explore the underrated benefits of a periodic insurance review. Taking the time to scrutinize your policy could unveil potential savings and align coverage with your current needs. - read more
Loans for Cars: Finding the Best Financing Options Loans for Cars: Finding the Best Financing Options
The cost of buying a car is a major financial commitment, so it's important to consider all of your options before making a purchase. In this article, we look at some of the pros and cons of the most common car financing options, including leasing, hire purchase and paying cash, and what difference it makes whether you are buying a new or used vehicle. - read more
Loans for Cars: Finding out if you Qualify Loans for Cars: Finding out if you Qualify
Qualifying for a car loan isn't all that difficult. There are a few key things that lenders will look at when considering your application, including your income, credit history/existing loans, employment, age, and residency atatus. As long as you have a good understanding of these factors, you’ll be in a much better position to qualify for a car loan. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about qualifying for a car loan! - read more
The Pros and Cons of Refinancing Your Car Loan The Pros and Cons of Refinancing Your Car Loan
Car loan refinancing involves taking out a new loan to pay off an existing car loan. This can be done with the same lender or a different one. The primary goal is often to secure better interest rates, alter the loan term, or reduce monthly payments. - read more
Leveraging Trade-In Values and Loans for an Australian Car Upgrade Leveraging Trade-In Values and Loans for an Australian Car Upgrade
For many Australians, a car is more than just a means of transportation; it's a symbol of freedom, a tool for exploration, and often, a reflection of personal style. With the auto market continually evolving, staying abreast of current trends is key for car buyers looking to upgrade. New models with advanced technology, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety features enter the market each year, making the prospect of upgrading increasingly appealing. - read more
Your Ultimate Guide to Car Finance in Australia: Top Tips for Finding the Best Deals Your Ultimate Guide to Car Finance in Australia: Top Tips for Finding the Best Deals
Car finance in Australia presents a myriad of options for those looking to purchase a vehicle through a payment plan. Understanding how car finance works is crucial to navigating this complex landscape and finding a deal that aligns with your financial goals. From loans offered by banks and credit unions to dealer financing and specialised car finance companies, the choices are extensive. - read more
The Pros and Cons of Refinancing Your Car Loan The Pros and Cons of Refinancing Your Car Loan
Car loan refinancing involves taking out a new loan to pay off an existing car loan. This can be done with the same lender or a different one. The primary goal is often to secure better interest rates, alter the loan term, or reduce monthly payments. - read more
Essential Guide for Australian First-Time Car Buyers Essential Guide for Australian First-Time Car Buyers
Welcome to your essential guide for Australian first-time car buyers! Whether you're dreaming of your first sleek, new vehicle or a reliable pre-owned car, buying a car for the first time is a big milestone and an exciting experience. - read more
Understanding Specialist Lenders: The Secret to Better Car Loan Terms Understanding Specialist Lenders: The Secret to Better Car Loan Terms
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
Temporary Resident? Learn How You Can Qualify for an Australian Car Loan Temporary Resident? Learn How You Can Qualify for an Australian Car Loan
Welcome to your comprehensive guide on navigating the Australian car loan landscape as a temporary resident. Whether you're here for work, study, or leisure, having your own vehicle can vastly improve your time in Australia. However, securing a loan for a car might seem like a formidable task given your temporary status. That's where this article steps in—to enlighten and empower you in this financial journey. - read more
Navigating Credit Scores: How They Impact Your Car Loan Options in Australia Navigating Credit Scores: How They Impact Your Car Loan Options in Australia
Welcome to the guide designed to help you navigate the intricate world of credit scores and their impact on your car loan possibilities in Australia. Whether you're a long-term resident or here for a temporary stay, understanding the nuts and bolts of credit scores is crucial in securing your ideal vehicle through a loan. This post aims to shed light on this pivotal financial metric and aid you in your car financing journey. - read more
Self-Employed? Here's How You Can Qualify for a Car Loan in Australia Self-Employed? Here's How You Can Qualify for a Car Loan in Australia
Stepping into the world of self-employment can be a profoundly liberating experience, offering greater flexibility and the potential for financial independence. However, when it comes to securing finance for substantial purchases like a vehicle, self-employed individuals may face unique hurdles. Traditional lenders often favor those with a stable employment history and regular income statements, which can put the self-employed at a disadvantage. - read more


Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Life Cover Amount:
Your Postcode:
All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Need A Car Loan Right Now?
Compare Car Loan rates & options to secure the best finance offers from our broad network of leading Australian car finance brokers & specialist lenders. Fast, free … and without accessing or affecting your credit file!

 START HERE.

Loan Amount:
Postcode:
Your quotes are provided free & without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Compare Car Loan rates & options to secure the best finance offers from a broad selection of Australia`s leading car finance brokers & specialist lenders. Fast, free … and without accessing or affecting your credit file!

Knowledgebase
Leverage:
The use of borrowed funds to increase the potential return of an investment, but which also increases potential risk.