Loans For Cars :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Australian Households Face Toughest Economic Times Since '90s

Australian Households Face Toughest Economic Times Since '90s

Australian Households Face Toughest Economic Times Since '90s?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.

As Australia's economic climate continues to worsen, households are encountering unprecedented financial challenges, marking the gravest consumer recession since the early 1990s, excluding the impacts of recent pandemic-related downturns.

The latest economic data reveals a grim picture, with the country’s per capita real GDP plummeting by 1.3% over the five quarters ending in March 2024. This level resembles the lows last seen in late 2024, underscoring the severity of the current economic stagnation.

Notably, a significant factor fueling this downturn is the drastic fall in household consumption. Recent figures indicate that consumer spending has experienced its most severe contraction in over six decades, dropping by 7.6% since its zenith in mid-2022. This decline vividly illustrates the economic pressures faced by average Australians, with many scaling back on non-essential expenditures to weather the financial storm.

The source of this analysis, as suggested by the data insights published by 'The Sydney Morning Herald,' underscores that this economic hardship is deeply rooted in several complex factors, including rising interest rates, stagnant wages, and an increased cost of living. These intertwined issues have collectively restricted disposable income, thus diminishing purchasing power across the board.

While historically low savings rate has further exacerbated household financial stress, economists highlight some stark comparisons with past economic downturns. Unlike the early 1990s recession, which was somewhat mitigated by subsequent economic reforms and technological advancements, today's predicament offers less room for quick economic revival without substantial policy interventions.

Moreover, current circumstances are compounded by global economic uncertainties and supply chain disruptions, which contribute to inflation and broader economic volatility. Despite some governmental stimulus measures, the overall impact on household confidence and spending appears limited and localized, failing to address the root causes of the ongoing recession.

For financial services professionals, these trends underscore the crucial need for strategic advisory and innovative financial products tailored to help households navigate these challenging times. The situation could create opportunities for personalized financial planning, targeted savings programs, and debt management services that could offer some relief to struggling consumers.

Published:Monday, 15th Jul 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Finance News

ASIC Identifies Critical Issues in Australia's Car Finance Sector
ASIC Identifies Critical Issues in Australia's Car Finance Sector
19 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review of the motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant concerns regarding lending practices. This examination has highlighted issues such as exorbitant establishment fees and a troubling rate of early loan defaults, raising questions about the adequacy of current lending standards. - read more
Australian Used Car Market Experiences Significant Supply Surge
Australian Used Car Market Experiences Significant Supply Surge
19 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA), in collaboration with AutoGrab, has released the Mid-2025 Automotive Insights Report, revealing a substantial increase in the supply of used cars in the Australian market. The first half of 2025 saw 1,589,491 vehicles listed for sale, marking an over 30% rise compared to the same period in 2024. This surge in supply is reshaping market dynamics and influencing pricing trends. - read more
New Government Initiative Offers Low-Interest Loans for Electric Vehicles
New Government Initiative Offers Low-Interest Loans for Electric Vehicles
19 Dec 2025: 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
ASIC's Findings Highlight Urgent Need for Reform in Car Finance Lending Practices
ASIC's Findings Highlight Urgent Need for Reform in Car Finance Lending Practices
11 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently unveiled findings from its comprehensive review of the motor vehicle finance sector, highlighting concerning trends that are likely to prompt a tightening of lending practices across the industry. - read more
Bank Australia's Bold Move: Phasing Out Loans for New Fossil Fuel Cars
Bank Australia's Bold Move: Phasing Out Loans for New Fossil Fuel Cars
11 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
In a significant shift towards environmental sustainability, Bank Australia has ceased offering car loans for new petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicles as of February 2025. This policy change aligns with the bank's commitment to achieving carbon net-zero targets by 2035 and underscores its dedication to promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption. - read more
ASIC Launches In-Depth Review of Motor Vehicle Finance Practices
ASIC Launches In-Depth Review of Motor Vehicle Finance Practices
11 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has commenced a thorough review of the motor vehicle finance sector, focusing on strengthening consumer protections and ensuring industry compliance with responsible lending obligations. This initiative aims to address potential risks and improve the experiences of borrowers across Australia. - read more
APRA's New Cap on High Debt-to-Income Home Loans: What Borrowers Need to Know
APRA's New Cap on High Debt-to-Income Home Loans: What Borrowers Need to Know
03 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at curbing potential risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will implement a cap limiting the proportion of new home loans with high debt-to-income (DTI) ratios. This move is designed to promote responsible lending practices and ensure the stability of the financial system. - read more


Car Loans Articles

10 Common Mistakes Australians Make When Financing Their Car
10 Common Mistakes Australians Make When Financing Their Car
Car financing has become increasingly popular among Australians for a variety of reasons. For many, it offers the opportunity to own a vehicle without having to pay the entire purchase price upfront. - read more
Five Common Mistakes First-Time Car Buyers Make and How to Avoid Them
Five Common Mistakes First-Time Car Buyers Make and How to Avoid Them
Buying your first car is an exciting milestone that can offer a sense of independence and freedom. Whether you're envisioning weekend getaways or a smoother daily commute, the joy of car ownership holds a special thrill. However, alongside this excitement, it is crucial to approach this journey with awareness and preparation to ensure you make a smart financial decision. - 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
Loans for Cars: Getting an Even Better Deal
Loans for Cars: Getting an Even Better Deal
If you're in the market for a new car, you're probably wondering what you need to do to get the best car loan. It's no secret that the car dealership will try to sell you a loan, but you don't have to take their offer! In fact, you can get a much better loan if you know what you're doing. - 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
Avoid Rejection: Common Pitfalls to Sidestep in Meeting Car Loan Criteria
Avoid Rejection: Common Pitfalls to Sidestep in Meeting Car Loan Criteria
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
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


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:

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

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
Mortgage Insurance:
Insurance that protects a lender in case a borrower defaults on their mortgage.