ASIC to Name Financial Licensees in New Breach Transparency Initiative
ASIC to Name Financial Licensees in New Breach Transparency Initiative
2
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 Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has proposed a new regulatory framework aimed at increasing transparency in the financial industry by identifying financial planning licensees who report breaches.
Revealed in a consultation paper, CP 383, this proposal would see ASIC start publishing Reportable Situations (RS) and Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR) data at both firm and industry levels, including the names and licence numbers of the offending companies.
This move marks a significant departure from ASIC's current practice of only publishing industry-level data, which omits individual firm details. Notably, the proposed dashboards will exclude personal information for licensees who are individuals, ensuring privacy is maintained.
ASIC's consultation paper outlines several key data elements it plans to share, including detailed information about licensees, the volume and nature of reported breaches, the extent and impact of these breaches, and subsequent remediation and rectification efforts. Additionally, the paper focuses on the licensees' investigative and reporting practices.
The primary objective behind this initiative is to enhance accountability and transparency within the financial sector. By making this data public, ASIC aims to incentivize improved behaviors and performance amongst financial services providers. It also intends to help both firms and consumers identify systemic issues characterized by significant breach volumes and recurring IDR complaints, providing a clearer focus for compliance efforts and improving consumer outcomes.
According to ASIC Commissioner Alan Kirkland, the public release of the proposed dashboard would significantly boost transparency, encouraging firms to bolster their performance. It will also offer consumers and investors a more accessible means to engage with firm-level data, promoting more informed decision-making and participation within the financial system.
The proposals detailed in CP 383 mark a pivotal step in ASIC's ongoing commitment to fostering a more transparent and accountable financial sector, with anticipated benefits not just for industry compliance but also for consumer trust and safety.
In March 2025, Australia's automotive market recorded a slight downturn, with new car sales totaling 108,606 units-a 0.9% decrease compared to the same month in the previous year. This marginal decline reflects the ongoing economic pressures affecting consumer spending habits. - read more
In recent developments within Australia's financial sector, the increasing availability of green loans has begun to influence the average rates of personal loans. Green loans, designed to finance environmentally friendly initiatives such as the purchase of electric or hybrid vehicles and sustainable home upgrades, are typically offered at lower interest rates compared to standard personal loans. - read more
In 2025, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) implemented a series of rate cuts, reducing the cash rate from 4.35% to 3.60%. This move was aimed at alleviating financial pressures on borrowers, particularly mortgage holders. Consequently, most lenders, including the major banks, promptly mirrored these reductions, leading to lower mortgage rates and providing relief to homeowners. - read more
In 2024, Australia witnessed a remarkable surge in electric and hybrid vehicle financing, with total loans reaching $6.17 billion-a 50% increase from the previous year. This substantial growth underscores a nationwide shift towards more sustainable transportation options. - read more
Australia's Westpac Banking Corporation has reached a settlement of A$130 million (approximately $81.84 million) to resolve a class action lawsuit concerning its auto finance practices. The lawsuit, initiated by law firm Maurice Blackburn in 2020, alleged that between March 1, 2013, and October 31, 2018, Westpac and its subsidiary, St George Finance, permitted car dealers to increase interest rates on car loans to earn higher commissions. - read more
When planning to take out a car loan, it is crucial to start by understanding your budget. Consider how much you can realistically afford to borrow without straining your finances. Assessing your monthly income and expenses will help you arrive at a sensible figure, ensuring you don't overcommit. - read more
With the rising cost of living, many Australians are opting for used vehicles as a cost-effective alternative to brand-new cars. Buying a used car can offer significant savings, reducing the initial financial burden while still providing reliable transportation. - read more
Stepping into the world of auto financing can be as daunting as it is exciting. The commitment of a new car loan demands more than just desiring your dream car; it necessitates a balanced budget and a solid financial plan. Understanding how to prepare before signing on that dotted line is not only wise, it’s imperative for your financial health. - read more
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
When it comes to buying a car, understanding the loan terms is just as essential as choosing the right make and model. The terms of a loan can significantly affect your financial journey beyond just the asking price. In a marketplace brimming with attractive deals, comprehending these terms can be your greatest asset, ensuring you drive away with a well-suited financing plan. - read more
Need Help Finding a Loan?
Get a free car loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored
specifically to your circumstances.
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without
obligation. We respect your
privacy.
Knowledgebase
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) Cap: A limit on how much the interest rate or the payment can change for an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage.