Home About us Calculators Articles Sitemap Apply Now

Car Loans Australia :: News

Share this news item!

Westpac Records Slight Profit Drop Amid Geopolitical Risk Concerns

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.

In a cautious signal to the market, Westpac has recorded a marginal decline in its half-year profit, posting a $3.45 billion result, down by one per cent compared to previous figures.

This financial outcome marks the first under the direction of their new CEO, Anthony Miller, who commenced his role in December last year.

Westpac has flagged geopolitical unpredictability as a significant ongoing risk, reflecting a challenging environment for the financial sector.

Miller highlighted the bank's strong performance in business and institutional banking as a positive offset to other pressures. A noteworthy rise of 14 per cent in Australian business lending and a 15 per cent increase in institutional lending were key contributors to their results. This elevation underscores Westpac's strategic shift towards strengthening its business banking division.

The bank also noted a reduction in the impacts from inflation and high interest rates, as evidenced by falling credit impairment charges and a drop in stressed exposures, currently sitting at a low 1.36 per cent. This indicates a measure of resilience among Westpac's customers, who have navigated through substantial cost-of-living challenges in recent years.

With other major banks yet to report, Westpac's release sets a cautiously optimistic tone in the current economic climate. Keeping a forward-looking approach, Anthony Miller stated the bank’s intention to collaborate with the government on crucial issues such as housing provision and cash access sustainability, aiming to bolster competition and national growth.

Shareholders will receive an interim dividend of 76 cents, marking a moment of stability in an otherwise unpredictable financial landscape.

Published:Monday, 5th May 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Finance News

New Partnership Offers Discounted Finance for Hyundai and Kia Electric Vehicles

04 May 2026: Paige Estritori

The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) has announced a partnership with Hyundai Capital Australia (HCAU) to provide discounted finance rates on eligible Hyundai and Kia electric vehicles (EVs). This initiative aims to reduce the upfront costs associated with EV ownership, making it more accessible for Australian households and small businesses. - read more

MG HS Super Hybrid Now Available from $42,990 with End-of-Financial-Year Discount

04 May 2026: Paige Estritori

MG Motor Australia has announced a substantial price reduction for its HS Super Hybrid range as part of the M-Genius End-of-Financial-Year (EOFY) campaign. Until June 30, 2026, the plug-in hybrid SUV is available with a $5,000 discount, bringing the driveaway price to $42,990 for the Excite variant and $46,990 for the Essence variant. This represents a saving of approximately 10% off the previous prices. - read more

Surge in Electric Vehicle Financing Reflects Australia's Shift Towards Cleaner Transport

26 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

In 2025, Australia witnessed a significant surge in electric and hybrid vehicle financing, reaching a total of $7.37 billion-a 20% increase from the previous year. This growth indicates a substantial shift in consumer preferences towards cleaner transportation options. - read more

Record Surge in Electric Vehicle Loan Applications in Australia

18 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

In a remarkable development, fintech lender MONEYME has observed a substantial 90% month-on-month increase in electric vehicle (EV) loan applications from February to March 2026. This surge underscores a significant shift in Australian consumer behaviour towards electric vehicles, driven by escalating fuel prices and growing environmental awareness. - read more

How Digital Finance is Transforming Car Purchases in Australia

10 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

The landscape of car purchasing in Australia is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the rapid adoption of digital finance solutions. Traditional methods of securing car loans are being replaced by streamlined online processes, offering consumers faster approvals and enhanced convenience. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Car Loans Articles

Avoiding Financial Pitfalls: Tips for First-Time Car Buyers in Australia

Before taking the plunge into car ownership, it's crucial to have a clear view of your current financial health. Start by evaluating your income, monthly expenses, and any savings you may have set aside. This assessment will give you a realistic picture of how much you can allocate towards buying a car without straining your finances. - read more

Fixed vs. Variable Interest Rates: Which Car Loan is Right for You?

Purchasing a car is a major financial decision for many Australians, and it often involves securing a loan. With numerous options available, navigating the car loan landscape can be overwhelming. Understanding your choices is essential for finding the loan that best suits your needs. - read more

The Essential Guide to Securing Affordable Car Finance in Australia

Finding an affordable car finance option can make the dream of owning a vehicle a tangible reality for many Australians. It’s about understanding the intricacies of the loan market, interest rates, and finding a plan that aligns with your financial prospects and constraints. In a society built on the convenience of mobility, securing a car that meets both your needs and your budget is essential. - read more

5 Strategies for Balancing Your Budget with a New Car Loan

With the excitement of purchasing a new vehicle, the financial responsibilities that come with a new car loan can often be overlooked. Balancing your budget when you have taken on a new car loan is crucial to financial well-being and long-term happiness with your purchase. In this article, we will explore five practical strategies that can help you navigate the common financial challenges that accompany car loans. - read more

5 Critical Steps to Take Before Applying for a Car Loan in Australia

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

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

Underwater Mortgage:
A mortgage in which the balance owed on the loan is greater than the value of the property securing the loan.

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 act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party brokers, insurers, and lenders. We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. 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 independently verify the credentials and licensing of any adviser or provider you engage. Visit the ASIC website for further information.

Westpac Records Slight Profit Drop Amid Geopolitical Risk Concerns

Westpac Records Slight Profit Drop Amid Geopolitical Risk Concerns

Share this news item:

Let's help find your car loan!