Car Loans Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Gen Zs Financial Concerns Outweigh Other Generations

Gen Zs Financial Concerns Outweigh Other Generations

Gen Zs Financial Concerns Outweigh Other Generations?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.

Financial matters are causing significant worry among Gen Z individuals, with a staggering 68% feeling the pressure according to the recent research findings by ASIC's Moneysmart program, surpassing the concerns of any other age group.
This release coincides with the introduction of a fresh consumer awareness campaign by Moneysmart, aimed at empowering Gen Z individuals to quickly acquire fundamental financial knowledge and develop positive fiscal habits.

The study highlights the growing financial stress experienced by 82% of Australian Gen Zs (aged between 18 to 26). Nevertheless, this generation is also twice as likely as other age groups to demonstrate a strong desire to enhance their financial management skills as a means to overcome their financial pressures.

Challenges to Financial Well-being

Encouragingly, nine out of ten Gen Z individuals are determined to boost their financial literacy and confidence, despite facing a number of obstacles. The research indicates that almost half (49%) of financially insecure Gen Zs indicate feeling overwhelmed as the biggest barrier to achieving financial security, closely followed by not knowing how or where to start (42%).

Quick Learning and Social Media Appeal

Furthermore, the research unveils that Gen Zs prefer to acquire knowledge in the shortest time possible (77%) and are twice as likely as other generations to turn to social media platforms (56% compared to 23% of non-Gen Zs) for guidance and information on financial management.

Higher Debt Levels and Reliance on Credit Products

As per the research findings, Gen Zs typically possess higher levels of personal debt compared to other age groups, alongside a greater dependency on credit products. Key highlights of the study include:

  1. Gen Zs carry an average personal debt of $8,188, exceeding non-Gen Zs ($6,730).
  2. Approximately 21% (equivalent to 600,000 individuals) are burdened with personal debts amounting to $10,000 or more, with 4% (equivalent to 124,000 individuals) facing debts exceeding $50,000.
  3. 25% (equivalent to 720,000 individuals) have less than $1,000 in savings, including 8% (equivalent to 217,000 individuals) who have no savings at all.
  4. Gen Zs are more likely to utilize Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services (28%) compared to non-Gen Zs (21%).
  5. BNPL usage is also more prevalent in regional Australia, with 34% of Gen Zs in these areas utilizing such services, compared to 26% in metro areas.

Surviving Cost-of-Living Challenges

In response to the mounting pressure of the cost of living, Gen Z individuals are considering options like taking on additional or new employment opportunities (39%) to address their financial difficulties.

Published:Saturday, 18th Nov 2023
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

How Digital Finance is Transforming Car Purchases in Australia
How Digital Finance is Transforming Car Purchases in Australia
02 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
ASIC Calls for Strengthened Consumer Protections in Car Finance
ASIC Calls for Strengthened Consumer Protections in Car Finance
02 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has 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
Why Australians Are Turning to Novated Leasing in a High-Interest Market
Why Australians Are Turning to Novated Leasing in a High-Interest Market
02 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori
In the current economic climate, characterized by elevated interest rates and high vehicle prices, Australians are increasingly exploring alternative methods of financing their car purchases. One such method gaining popularity is novated leasing, which offers a cost-effective and tax-efficient alternative to traditional car loans. - read more
ASIC Calls for Improved Consumer Safeguards in Car Finance Sector
ASIC Calls for Improved Consumer Safeguards in Car Finance Sector
25 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has conducted a comprehensive review of the motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant issues that adversely affect consumers. This investigation was initiated in response to a surge in complaints regarding high costs associated with car financing. - read more
Australian Car Buyers Increasingly Postpone Finance Decisions
Australian Car Buyers Increasingly Postpone Finance Decisions
25 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent research indicates a growing trend among Australian car buyers to delay decisions regarding vehicle financing. A study conducted by carsales reveals that only 71% of buyers have determined their financing method before commencing their vehicle search, a decrease from 77% in previous years. - read more


Car Loans Articles

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
Your Car Loan Journey: From Application to Approval
Your Car Loan Journey: From Application to Approval
In this article, we are embarking on a guided journey that we believe will help immensely in navigating the intricacies of the car loan process. - 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
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
5 Strategies for Balancing Your Budget with a New Car Loan
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


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 obligation-free by a participating broker from our national referral partner network. We respect your Privacy.
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Refinancing:
The process of obtaining a new mortgage to replace an existing one, often to secure a lower interest rate.