New Horizon for Small Business Lending Rules

10

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 proposed regulations, aimed at modifying the National Consumer Credit Protection Regulations 2010, will push the deadline of the current small business lending exemption to October 3, 2026, from its original expiry of October 3, 2024.

Essentially, this extension means that loans serving both personal and legitimate business purposes-where the business component isn't marginal-will remain exempt from responsible lending regulations.

Current consumer credit laws, highlighted in Chapter 3 of the National Credit Act, generally bypass commercial funding. However, mixed-purpose loans (for example, blending personal and commercial finance needs) are subject to these laws unless it is evident that the primary use is for business.

Eligibility for the exemption defines a small business as having fewer than 100 employees or recording revenue of $5 million or below in the last fiscal year.

Extending the exemption offers more runtime for gathering data, which will aid in making a well-informed future decision about whether the exemption should become permanent, expire, or be altered to boost efficacy.

This approach appears to shed light on the adaptability of lending regulations, pushing boundaries for the benefit of small business dynamics within the evolving market landscape.

Source: Initially reported by David Jacobson, Bright Corporate Law Principal.

Disclaimer: This information is shared for informative purposes and should not be considered as legal advice. Always seek expert consultation to address specific needs before acting on any information provided.

Published:Thursday, 15th Aug 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

APRA Implements Cap on High DTI Home Loans to Address Housing Market Concerns

02 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating emerging risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will impose a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, limiting banks to issuing no more than 20% of new home loans with DTI ratios of six times or higher. This measure applies to both owner-occupier and investor loans, excluding new housing developments. - read more

Australian Home Prices Continue Upward Trend Amidst Affordability Challenges

02 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In November 2025, Australia's housing market experienced a 1% month-on-month increase in home prices, bringing the national median value to A$888,941. This follows a 1.1% rise in October, indicating a persistent upward trend in property values. The growth was particularly pronounced in mid-sized state capitals, with Perth leading at a 2.4% increase. Sydney and Melbourne saw more modest gains of 0.5% and 0.3%, respectively. - read more

Analysts Predict Continued Growth in Australian Home Prices Through 2026

02 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent analyses indicate that Australian home prices are expected to rise by approximately 6.9% in 2026, an upward revision from earlier projections of 5.6%. This forecast follows an anticipated 8% increase in 2025, highlighting a sustained upward trajectory in property values. The primary drivers behind this growth include limited housing supply and resilient demand, particularly in major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. - read more

Celebrating the Success of the 2025 Sydney International On-Water Boat Show

02 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The 56th Sydney International On-Water Boat Show, held from 13 to 16 November 2025 at Darling Harbour, has concluded with remarkable success. This year's event attracted over 20,000 visitors, underscoring the enduring appeal of Australia's marine lifestyle and industry. - read more

Victoria's Arcadia Hatchery: A Milestone in Native Fish Production

02 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Victoria has taken a significant step forward in native fish conservation with the opening of the Arcadia Native Fish Hatchery, now the largest facility of its kind in Australia. Located just south of Shepparton, this state-of-the-art hatchery is set to revolutionise the state's fisheries sector and bolster recreational fishing opportunities. - read more

Click for more Finance News