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:
Paige Estritori wraps this weeks SME finance news: card surcharges end on 1 October as RBA fee caps drop, so businesses should update signage, POS and compare merchant pricing; calls intensify for full broker commission disclosure in small business insurance; robust funding signals from a record $1.2b securitisation support asset and equipment finance; and the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation deploys $55m to an industrial project, highlighting co-funding options for value-adding businesses.
EPISODE 2928 | Small Business Finance SME Newscast | Sat, 12th Sep 2026
14 Sep 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to the Small Business Finance SME Newscast with Paige Estritori, its Saturday, 12 September 2026.
First, payments. From 1 October, card surcharges on Visa, Mastercard and eftpos are banned, and the Reserve Bank of Australia is also cutting interchange fee caps. This weeks coverage stressed that banks may trim card perks as those fees fall, so dont be surprised if rewards shift. For your business, update any “card surcharge” signage, check POS settings and invoices, and compare merchant service pricing so your costs dont creep in unnoticed.
Meanwhile, small business insurance is under the microscope. A parliamentary inquiry was told the draft brokers code should require full dollar-value disclosure of commissions to help owners make informed choices. If your renewals coming up, ask your broker to put all remuneration and fees in writing, and start quotes early so cover and cost both stack up.
Next up, funding conditions. A major non-bank priced a record $1.2 billion securitisation after strong global demand, signalling healthy capacity in asset and equipment finance despite higher rates. If youre replacing vehicles or machinery, competition among lenders could work in your favour—so compare offers and make sure repayments fit your cash flow.
And government-backed capital is moving. The National Reconstruction Fund Corporation committed $55 million in senior secured debt to expand a Darwin chemical recycling facility. Its a reminder that co-funding is available for projects in value-adding industries. If you operate in advanced manufacturing, renewables or resources services, get your business case, budgets and documents investor-ready so you can move quickly when opportunities open.
Thats the wrap. For fast eligibility checks, lender comparisons and independent support, head to small-business-finance.com.au. Im Paige Estritori—thanks for listening and Ill catch 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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Knowledgebase
Mortgagor: A person who offers to assign an asset as security (e.g. real estate) under a mortgage loan contract. The lender (mortgagee) holds the legal ownership of the security until the loan is repaid and the mortgage is discharged.
