Each week, we deliver a clear, credible wrap of Australian small business news — policy changes, tax and compliance updates, economic trends, technology shifts, grants, and standout industry stories. Expect plain-English context, key takeaways, and what it means for your operations. Stay informed in minutes, stay ahead of change, and start the week organised. We highlight major headlines from government, regulators, and trusted business outlets, summarised with practical context you can use.
This Week:
This week: ATO finalises Payday Super transition rules, with a 28 August deadline for late June‑quarter super via the super guarantee charge. CBA flags rising arrears despite strong profit, signalling cautious lending. The Australian Business Growth Fund doubles its first cheque to $30m, widening equity options for scale‑ups. Commercial insurance pricing softens across many lines, offering potential savings at renewal. Practical tips focus on cash‑flow readiness, eligibility checks, and aligning insurance with financed assets.
EPISODE 2659 | Small Business Finance SME Newscast | Sat, 15th Aug 2026
18 Aug 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Welcome to Small Business Finance SME Newscast with me, Paige Estritori, on 15 August 2026.
First, the Australian Taxation Office has finalised its guidance for Payday Super — thats superannuation paid each payday rather than quarterly. The rulings, released on 14 August, explain how the transition from the old quarterly Superannuation Guarantee works from 1 July 2026. If you missed the final June‑quarter super payment due by 28 July, the ATO says lodge a super guarantee charge statement and pay the charge by 28 August; payments made on or after 29 July are treated as Payday Super. Check your payroll settings now; if tighter pay‑cycle super strains cash flow, compare working‑capital options and check eligibility online in minutes.
Next up, Australias biggest bank reported this week that profit was strong, but loan arrears are rising across home and personal loans. That tells us lenders remain cautious as higher costs bite. If youre planning to borrow, be ready with clear cash‑flow and recent statements, and use our tools to compare small business loans side by side — fast and fee‑free to check.
Meanwhile, equity capital just got deeper for scale‑ups. The government‑backed Australian Business Growth Fund lifted its maximum first investment from $15 million to $30 million and can now take a majority stake if founders want to step back. It wont suit every SME, but its another option to fund expansion or succession alongside debt. If bank finance isnt the right fit today, explore whether a mix of equity and lending could move your plan forward.
And insurance costs may ease for many businesses. A new market review shows abundant insurer capacity and softer commercial pricing, with average reductions of about one to 10 per cent in the June quarter and some coverage restrictions rolling back; motor remains an outlier with higher claims costs. Use renewal time to re‑shop policies and confirm cover levels lenders require when assets are financed — lower premiums can help your serviceability.
Thats it for this week. For fast comparisons and a free business loan assessment, head to small-business-finance.com.au — Ill see you next week.
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.
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