Skip to main content
Financial Assistance Hub

ABA welcomes release of review into small and medium banks

7 August 2025

The ABA welcomes the release of the Council of Financial Regulators’ (CFR) review
into small and medium-sized banks.

ABA CEO Anna Bligh said the review findings and recommendations would help
ensure there is a more level playing field for Australia’s small and mid-tier banks.

“This is an important step forward in ensuring Australia maintains a strong and
competitive banking sector,” Ms Bligh said.

“Having a diverse range of banks ultimately means more competition in the market and
that delivers more choice and better outcomes for customers.

“There are positive steps in this review to ensure the regulatory settings allow small
and medium-sized banks to compete and succeed.

“In particular, we welcome moves to formalise more proportionate regulation, support
lower funding costs and reduce unnecessary regulatory reporting.

“Our industry thanks the Council of Financial Regulators for their engagement
throughout the review and stands ready to assist in the effective implementation of
these recommendations.”

Contact: Benn Ayre | [email protected] | 0428 342 325

Latest news

1 / 3
Media Releases
Banks welcome progress to establish regulatory framework for cash distribution
22 April 2026

The ABA welcomes the release today of Treasury’s exposure draft legislation to regulate Australia’s cash-in-transit sector. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said this regulatory framework was an essential piece in the puzzle of ensuring cash remains available to Australians who still use it. “This is a welcome step and will be an important safety net in… Read more »

Read more
Transcript
Simon Birmingham on ABC Radio Sydney with Thomas Oriti discussing banking support for businesses
20 April 2026

E&OERadio InterviewABC Radio Sydney20 April 2026. Topics: Banking support; Interest free loans for business; Industry groups call for red tape reduction; Work from home arrangements Thomas Oriti (Host): We’re hearing today that Australian banks are supporting the roll out of zero interest loans with banks to administer them to businesses in identified priority sectors with… Read more »

Read more
Transcript
Simon Birmingham speaks to Sky News’ Laura Jayes on banking support for businesses
20 April 2026

E&OETV InterviewSky News20 April 2026. Topics: Banking support; Interest free loans for business; Industry groups call for red tape reduction Laura Jayes (Host): Well, this morning the government has announced about a billion dollars’ worth of interest free loans for any businesses with the turnover of less than $5 million that are affected by this… Read more »

Read more