FOLLOW US
Follow us!

We are a proud member of the Financial Services Online network!

Connect with us on your favourite social media platform for the latest financial news, views, tips, tricks, resources and information.

Follow us on social media
Car Loans Australia
Private & Commercial Car Loans for New & Used Vehicles
Car Loans Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

RBA Rate Cut Sparks Surge in Australian Consumer Confidence

RBA Rate Cut Sparks Surge in Australian Consumer Confidence

RBA Rate Cut Sparks Surge in Australian Consumer Confidence?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.

The Reserve Bank of Australia’s recent decision to reduce the official interest rate by 25 basis points to 4.1 per cent in February has invigorated consumer confidence, reaching a three-year high.
The upswing in sentiment began in late 2024 but waned slightly over the holiday season.
However, March data from the Westpac-Melbourne Institute consumer sentiment index indicates a recovery, driven by the RBA's interest rate cut and easing cost pressures.

Westpac’s Matthew Hassan noted that the central bank’s rate reduction, the first since 2020, substantially improved buyer sentiment and overall economic outlook. Employment expectations also improved, albeit despite the unemployment rate lifting slightly to 4.1 per cent in January-remaining historically low.

CreditorWatch's Ivan Colhoun observed a significant uplift in Westpac's unemployment expectations sub-component, suggesting possible declines in unemployment. While external challenges, particularly those related to global trade and tariffs, persist, the Australian labour market starts from a robust position.

Global developments, notably concerning US President Donald Trump's administration's tariffs, have caused consumer unease despite positive domestic conditions. This international tension is a focal point for Australia’s economic strategy moving forward.

Complementary to consumer sentiment, National Australia Bank reported a slight rise in business conditions in February, although a decline in business confidence nearly counteracts these gains. According to NAB’s Alan Oster, the services sector remains strong, while mining lags, reflecting a cautious business outlook despite positive GDP growth and the RBA rate cut.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics recently confirmed a 0.6 per cent economic growth in Q4 2024, moving the nation out of a per capita recession. Nonetheless, the persistence of input cost pressures showcases the ongoing hurdles businesses face amid moderate economic improvements.

Published:Wednesday, 12th Mar 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Finance News

ASIC Investigates Car Finance Practices to Strengthen Consumer Safeguards
ASIC Investigates Car Finance Practices to Strengthen Consumer Safeguards
20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has commenced a thorough review of the motor vehicle finance sector, focusing on enhancing consumer protections and ensuring compliance with responsible lending obligations. This initiative is particularly attentive to the experiences of borrowers in regional and remote areas, including First Nations communities. - read more
New Low-Interest Loans Make Electric Vehicles More Accessible to Australians
New Low-Interest Loans Make Electric Vehicles More Accessible to Australians
20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian government has unveiled a new initiative to make electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible to a broader segment of the population. This program offers low-interest loans to Australians earning less than $100,000 annually, as well as to essential workers such as police officers, teachers, firefighters, and nurses, regardless of their income level. The loans are available for both new and used EVs priced up to $55,000. - read more
Macquarie Bank Ends New Car Loan Services to Enhance Home Loan Offerings
Macquarie Bank Ends New Car Loan Services to Enhance Home Loan Offerings
20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Macquarie Bank has announced a strategic decision to cease offering new car loans through its direct, broker, and novated leasing channels. This move is part of the bank's broader strategy to concentrate on expanding its home loan and deposit services. - read more
ASIC's Review Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
ASIC's Review Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
12 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review of the nation's motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant issues that raise concerns about responsible lending practices. The findings indicate that some consumers are being subjected to exorbitant fees and are defaulting on their loans shortly after approval. - read more
Allied Credit Strengthens Position with Macquarie Loan Acquisition
Allied Credit Strengthens Position with Macquarie Loan Acquisition
12 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant development within the Australian financial sector, Allied Credit has announced the acquisition of a substantial portion of Macquarie Group's car loan portfolio, valued at $1.5 billion. This strategic move is set to bolster Allied Credit's position in the car finance market and expand its customer base. - read more
Click for more Finance News


Car Loans Articles

The Smart Aussie Buyer's Guide to Securing the Best Price on a New Car
The Smart Aussie Buyer's Guide to Securing the Best Price on a New Car
There's a unique thrill that comes with purchasing a new car; it's not just about getting from point A to B, but about fulfilling a dream and the freedom of the open road. However, with the excitement comes the need for careful planning and smart decision-making to ensure that your investment pays off in the long term. - read more
Avoid the Pitfalls: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Seeking Car Finance
Avoid the Pitfalls: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Seeking Car Finance
Entering the world of car finance can be both an exciting and daunting venture. With a plethora of options for car loans in Australia, it is essential for potential buyers to arm themselves with knowledge to make the best financial decision. A well-informed choice can be the difference between a loan that propels your personal mobility, and one that hinders your financial stability. - read more
Pre-purchase Checklist for Auto Buyers: Ensuring Financial Readiness
Pre-purchase Checklist for Auto Buyers: Ensuring Financial Readiness
Buying a car is an exciting milestone, but it's crucial to approach the process with a clear financial plan in place. Before you get swept away by the shiny showroom models or the thrill of a test drive, understanding the financial implications of purchasing a vehicle can save you from future stress and unwanted debt. Preparing before applying for a car loan is not just recommended; it's a necessary step that directly influences loan terms and your chances of approval. - read more
Understanding Car Loan Refinancing in Australia: When Is It the Right Move?
Understanding Car Loan Refinancing in Australia: When Is It the Right Move?
Car loan refinancing involves replacing an existing car loan with a new one, usually to lower the interest rate, reduce monthly payments, or modify the loan term. In Australia's fluctuating economic landscape, refinancing can be a strategic financial decision for borrowers looking to adjust their finances to more favorable terms. - read more
The Complete Checklist for Choosing a Car Loan Provider in Australia
The Complete Checklist for Choosing a Car Loan Provider in Australia
Finding the right car loan in Australia can be just as critical as selecting the car itself. Car finance, though a common undertaking, involves nuanced decisions that can have a significant impact on your financial future. - read more


Need Help Finding a Loan?
Get a free car loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored specifically to your circumstances.

Let's help find your car loan!

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.
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Mutual Fund:
An investment vehicle made up of a pool of funds collected from many investors for the purpose of investing in securities such as stocks, bonds, money market instruments, and other assets.


This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.
IMPORTANT: We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.