Get more information on how banks can help you.
8 May 2020
New figures released today show Australia’s banks have deferred an extra 100,000 loans, including approximately 50,000 home loans, over the last week to help customers through the COVID-19 pandemic.
The total number of loans deferred is now at least 643,000.
This new data released today shows the total value of loans deferred by Australia’s banks is now at least $200 billion.
Australian Banking Association CEO, Anna Bligh said this showed that the financial impact of the crisis was still unfolding and customers continued to need support from their bank to get through it.
“New data released today shows that in just one week an extra 100,000 customers have had their loans deferred, including 50,000 home loans, to take the pressure off household and business budgets as they navigate through this pandemic,” Ms Bligh said.
“These updated figures, together with figures not previously reported, bring the total number of loans deferred by Australia’s banks as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic to over 643,000, of which approximately 392,000 are home loans.
ABA CEO Anna Bligh
“These updated figures, together with figures not previously reported, bring the total number of loans deferred by Australia’s banks as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic to over 643,000, of which approximately 392,000 are home loans.
“The total value of loans which has been deferred has increased by at least $20 billion in just one week.
“These new figures, released today, shows banks working overtime to ensure assistance is given where needed to customers who are affected by this crisis.
“The surge in demand for assistance from banks shows that the economic impacts continue to be felt, and by no means is the nation through this crisis,” she said.
ENDS
Contact: Rory Grant 0475 741 007
Latest news
Media Releases
Banking productivity measures to help boost competition and benefit customers
Read more
23 October 2026
Banks welcome Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ release today of draft regulations to lift the cap on covered bond issuance, a practical step that would help small and mid-tier banks access cheaper, more stable funding. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said these changes, including streamlined reporting for smaller banks, are a welcome part of the Government’s broader productivity… Read more »
Media Releases
Banks welcome calls for regulation that backs growth
Read more
21 October 2026
Banks have welcomed Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson’s call today for the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to give more weight to economic growth in their decision making. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said regulation that supports growth is key to lifting productivity across the economy. “Banks want to… Read more »
Transcript
ABA CEO interview with ABC Afternoon Briefing’s Patricia Karvelas on the Australia-EU free trade deal
Read more
20 October 2026
E&OETV InterviewInterview ABC Afternoon Briefing19 October 2026 Topics: Australia-EU free trade deal, investment benefits Patricia Karvelas: Simon Birmingham is the CEO of the Australian Banking Association, but he’s a former finance minister in a previous coalition government. And our guest, welcome to the program. Simon Birmingham: Hi, Patricia. Good to be with you again. Patricia… Read more »