Car Loans Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Revitalizing Australia's Grocery Market: A Push for Diverse Ownership

Revitalizing Australia's Grocery Market: A Push for Diverse Ownership

Revitalizing Australia's Grocery Market: A Push for Diverse Ownership?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.

Nationals leader David Littleproud has initiated a call to action that may reshape the Australian grocery landscape, currently dominated by supermarket titans Coles and Woolworths.
Amid revelations of the supermarkets’ aggressive business strategies, there is a growing clamor for policies that could see these chains relinquish some of their stores to enhance market competition.

Recent scrutiny was cast on the supermarket chains following a Four Corners report, which scrutinized their pricing strategies. Accusations of price gouging have been refuted by the companies, yet the expose has fueled the debate on their market dominance. Littleproud contended that the report confirmed suspicions of anticompetitive practices, particularly highlighted by inflated meat and produce prices.

These claims have brought to light a broader issue - the immense earnings reaped by these retailers, with each boasting profits over the billion-dollar mark last fiscal year. This revelation led to mounting pressure from political quarters, demanding a reevaluation of the supermarket’s influence on both ends of the supply chain.

The increased scrutiny has resulted in four critical examinations: the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's yearlong inquiry into pricing, a senate probe led by the Greens party into possible price-fixing, a review of the existing food and grocery code of conduct, and an inquiry spearheaded by Queensland’s parliament into grocery pricing behaviors.

Amid these investigations, Littleproud urged the Federal Government to expedite the process, emphasizing the dual detriment faced by farmers and consumers due to the current duopoly’s practices. He warned of the peril to Australia’s food security, highlighting instances where farmers have seen their produce rejected based on stringent specifications, a power play possible only under market monopoly.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton weighed in on the conversation, pointing towards potential murky dealings between developers, Coles, and Woolworths, suggesting a tendency for strategic land acquisition which stifles competition prior to store approvals.

Litteproud's concerns also encapsulate the broader issue of maintaining the nation's food sovereignty. He cast the situation in stark terms, positing that the loss of 34 percent of farmers could lead to a crisis in food security-an untenable situation for a nation-value such an essential commodity.

The supermarkets have been signaled out to address these claims, ushering in a potential period of change should legislative measures favor Littleproud’s push. The emphasis is clearly on recalibrating the balance of power in the grocery sector to safeguard the interests of consumers and the agricultural community alike.

Published:Wednesday, 21st Feb 2024
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


Car Loans Articles

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
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
Avoiding Financial Pitfalls: Tips for First-Time Car Buyers in Australia
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
Beginner's Guide to Secured vs Unsecured Car Loans in Australia
Beginner's Guide to Secured vs Unsecured Car Loans in Australia
Buying a car is a significant financial decision, and understanding the loan terms involved is crucial to navigating this process effectively. Loan terms can dramatically affect how much you end up paying over the life of your loan, and they play a pivotal role in ensuring that you are empowered during the car buying process. These terms determine your monthly payments, interest rates, and the total cost of the car in the long run. - 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
Amortization Schedule:
A table that provides details of each periodic payment on a loan, including the amount going towards principal and interest.