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!

Banking Experts Predict Interest Rate Hike Pause

Banking Experts Predict Interest Rate Hike Pause

Banking Experts Predict Interest Rate Hike Pause?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 experts are predicting a pause on interest rate hikes in Australia, which could happen in April or May.
While there may not be any rate cuts yet, Bendigo and Adelaide Bank's chief economist, David Robertson, believes a range of factors suggest a pause in interest rates is on the horizon.

Robertson stated that the central bank might be influenced by the current stress in the US banking system, with US regulators taking swift action to stabilise their banking system following the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. The US Federal Reserve is now expected to take rates to around 5%, with a 6% rate no longer being discussed. For the RBA, this gives another reason to pause rate hikes for the moment, despite needing to keep warning of potentially higher rates until inflation is back near its target.

Inflation and unemployment rates also suggest a rate hike pause is likely as soon as next month. Robertson said that inflation and the jobs market have peaked and that the unemployment rate has increased. A greater share of the family budget is needed for interest repayments as well as the ongoing impact of inflation making all goods and services more expensive. Tourism and international arrival numbers continue to pick up, and demand for Australian exports remains strong, which will be crucial to offset the slowing in household spending as higher interest rates weigh on demand.

Moreover, Robertson highlighted that the release of wages growth data has been more benign than forecast, and the unemployment rate has increased further to 3.7%. GDP data also showed a deceleration in growth and in household spending, and the monthly Consumer Price Index fell from 8.4% to 7.4%. The cumulative impact of the aggressive tightening cycle is starting to show, suggesting that inflation peaked in December.

Overall, while the pause in interest rate hikes may only be temporary, it provides relief to borrowers, who have been dealing with rising costs. Still, it's essential to keep monitoring market developments and paying close attention to global economic indicators to predict any changes in the interest rate landscape in the future.

Published:Tuesday, 21st Mar 2023
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Finance News

ASIC Calls for Improved Consumer Safeguards in Car Finance Sector
ASIC Calls for Improved Consumer Safeguards in Car Finance Sector
04 Jan 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
Bank Australia Ceases Financing for New Fossil Fuel Vehicles
Bank Australia Ceases Financing for New Fossil Fuel Vehicles
04 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In a bold move towards environmental sustainability, Bank Australia has ceased offering loans for new petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicles as of February 2025. This policy change aligns with the bank's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2035. - read more
CommBank Introduces Discounted EV Loans for Essential Workers
CommBank Introduces Discounted EV Loans for Essential Workers
04 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant move to promote sustainable transportation, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CommBank) has introduced discounted loans for electric and hybrid vehicles, specifically targeting essential workers and individuals earning less than $100,000 annually. This initiative aims to make environmentally friendly vehicles more accessible to a broader segment of the Australian population. - read more
Affordable Electric Vehicle Loans Now Available for Eligible Australians
Affordable Electric Vehicle Loans Now Available for Eligible Australians
27 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
In a significant move to promote sustainable transportation, the Australian government has introduced a new loan scheme offering low-interest financing for electric vehicles (EVs). This initiative targets Australians earning less than $100,000 annually, as well as essential workers such as police officers, teachers, firefighters, and nurses, regardless of their income level. - read more
Rising Car Repossessions Highlight Financial Challenges for Australians
Rising Car Repossessions Highlight Financial Challenges for Australians
27 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
Recent data indicates a sharp increase in car repossessions across Australia, signaling escalating financial distress among households. Automotive auction house Pickles has reported a 13% rise in repossessed vehicles over the past six months, with an 11% increase in the last quarter alone. - read more
Click for more Finance News


Car Loans Articles

Fixed vs. Variable Interest Rates: Which Car Loan is Right for You?
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
Top Tips for Australians Navigating the Online Car Market
Top Tips for Australians Navigating the Online Car Market
The Australian automotive landscape has witnessed a significant transformation with the rise of online car sales. The concept of browsing, selecting, and purchasing a vehicle through digital platforms has gained immense popularity, offering consumers a vast array of choices at their fingertips. - 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
Navigating Car Finance: How to Choose a Loan That Works for You
Navigating Car Finance: How to Choose a Loan That Works for You
Buying a car is a significant financial decision, and for many, it means exploring the world of car finance. In Australia, the options are plentiful, and understanding them is key to making an informed choice. Car finance can seem daunting, with various loan types, interest rates, and repayment plans to consider. But fear not – a clear understanding of these options can steer you towards a deal that complements your financial circumstances. - read more
5 Critical Steps to Take Before Applying for a Car Loan in Australia
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.

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
Second Mortgage:
A type of subordinate mortgage made while an original mortgage is still in effect.


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.