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: battery installations surge as rebates cut upfront costs; ACCC targets subscription “traps,” urging SMEs to simplify cancellations; an AFCA ruling spotlights invoice‑redirection scam risks and insurance wording; and a reminder that tighter compliance may slow processes, so get documents ready before comparing unsecured or asset finance. Clear takeaways: align repayments to cash flow, clean up subscription flows, verify payee changes, and prepare paperwork early before seeking business loans.
EPISODE 1037 | Small Business Finance SME Newscast | Sat, 27th Dec 2025
29 Dec 2025 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to Small Business Finance SME Newscast, Im Paige Estritori, and its Saturday, 27 December 2025.
First, energy upgrades are back on the agenda. Installers report a sharp lift in battery installations since 1 July under the Cheaper Home Batteries program, with rebates trimming around a third off upfront costs. Some businesses and community organisations can access support too, which is boosting orders. If youre considering batteries for your premises, look at equipment finance to spread the gap after rebates and compare options side‑by‑side so repayments match your cash flow.
Next up, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, or ACCC, has launched court action over alleged subscription “traps”. The message for anyone running subscriptions is simple: cancellations must be easy, and sign‑up flows shouldnt nudge people into orders they dont want. Clean out dark patterns now to avoid penalties and chargebacks. Keep your terms, reminders and refund processes clear; it protects customers and your cash flow, and helps when lenders review your revenue quality.
Meanwhile, a recent ruling from the Australian Financial Complaints Authority, or AFCA, shows why payment‑redirection scams remain a risk. A business lost funds after paying an invoice with altered bank details, but the case turned on whether electronically transferred money is covered by policy wording. For your operations, put in strict payee verification, use dual approvals for account‑change requests, and talk to your broker about the right cyber or crime cover. Strong controls also reassure lenders when you apply for working capital.
And a quick reminder as the year wraps: regulators have been active across banking and markets this month. Expect tighter compliance from providers and allow extra time for verifications. Have your financials, BAS and ID docs ready so eligibility checks and comparisons are smooth when you seek unsecured or asset‑backed business loans.
Thats the wrap. For fast eligibility checks, full lender comparisons and expert help, head to small-business-finance.com.au. Im Paige; thanks for listening, and enjoy the break.
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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