The Australian Banking Association (ABA) is the information source for the news media on the Australian banking industry, providing information, analysis and context on industry issues.
The ABA plays an active role in the public dialogue on banking and financial services, providing commentary on broader industry issues and facilitating access to other sources of information.
For media inquiries contact media@ausbanking.org.au or 0475 741 007.
COVID-19 Banking Timeline: a financial history of the pandemic
see what’s happened in the Australian banking sector during the coronavirus pandemic
“…banks can go back to their normal processes and that is working out what’s right for every single customer, on an individual tailored basis with a proper assessment. That is the best thing for the customer.”
Access to credit opens up opportunities and fulfills aspirations. Getting it right requires the right balance between consumer protections and the flow of credit.
Interviewed by AM’s Peter Ryan, ABA CEO Anna Bligh talked about the substantial drop in loan deferrals since their peak during the pandemic, falling from 900,000 to 300,000.
The number of deferred loans has fallen below 300,000 – a reduction of almost 70% since the peak earlier this year.
“Banks have already been acting on the findings of Commissioner Hayne and remain fully engaged for this next phase” ABA CEO Anna Bligh
“we’ve seen a record high number of Australians switch their loans, either to another bank or gone to their own bank and got a better deal.”
Anna answered questions about the impact of COVID-19 on banks’ profits, how banks have responded to help customers during the pandemic and what’s happening next to customers who’ve deferred their mortgages.
“Banks play a vital role in helping Australians survive and recover from bushfires and other disasters”, said ABA CEO Anna Bligh.
Since February 1, Australian banks have approved over $41b for SMEs and sole traders. That’s an average of $5 billion per month.
Interview: Almost 45% of Australians who deferred their mortgages in June have begun repaying their loans.
Almost half of deferred loans are now being repaid again as Australians recover from the pandemic
This year’s federal budget will help Australia recover from the economic impact of COVID‑19 and create jobs as the nation recovers. The Australian Banking Association has welcomed the strong focus on support for small and medium businesses and direct assistance to families. “Australian banks stand ready to continue their role helping millions of Australians through… Read more »
“These changes will make banking faster and easier” said ABA CEO Anna Bligh
“Banks look forward to working with the Government to ensure the legislation works for both customers and the broader economy”.
Australia’s banks supported their customers as the country entered the COVID-19 pandemic and they continue to support them on the way out. As the initial wave of 6-month loan payment deferrals come to an end, banks have begun to contact customers for their 6-month assessment and to discuss the next stage of support and assistance. … Read more »
Helping businesses to remain viable and keeping people in their homes is good for everyone.
“These figures show there are some green shoots emerging in our economy and that’s a positive sign.” – ABA CEO Anna Bligh
“This will be welcome news for SMEs and opens up the scheme to those businesses who are looking to invest or need some extra support.”
This new phase of support turns a cliff into manageable steps for Australians to get back on track.
“Customers can be assured that they will always be in control of how and when they share their data.”
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