Skip to main content
Financial Assistance Hub

Banks welcome extension of Responsible Lending Obligation exemption for small businesses

1 October 2024

The ABA welcomes the Federal Government’s announcement to extend the Responsible Lending Obligations (RLO) exemption for small businesses.

ABA Acting CEO Vanessa Beggs said it was critical banks were able to provide small businesses with the finances they need to operate and expand.

“One in four SMEs report wanting to increase their capital investment, so this extension will help ensure small businesses across Australia can continue to access the credit they need to thrive and grow,” Mrs Beggs said.

“At the end of July 2024, $674 billion in credit was extended to SMEs, demonstrating the critical role of accessible credit in supporting small business growth.”

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy. Making it easier for them to access credit gives them more opportunities to employ Australians, upgrade their facilities and expand their operations.”

“Banks will continue to support small businesses, including ensuring credit or loans are readily available and accessible.”

The National Consumer Credit Protection Regulations 2010 will be amended to extend the exemption for a further two-year period, ending 3 October 2026. 

Contact: Benn Ayre | [email protected] | 0428 342 325
Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | www.ausbanking.org.au

Latest news

1 / 3
Media Releases
ABA CEO Simon Birmingham transcript of interview on ABC Riverland with Matt Stephens
26 August 2026

E&OERadio InterviewInterview on ABC Radio Riverland26 August 2026 Topics: Small and medium business scams; Tips to avoid scams Matt Stephens: This is a stat for you: four in five small and medium businesses say they’ve had a scam attempt on their business in the past 12 months. Four in five. The Australian Banking Association has… Read more »

Read more
Media Releases
Banks urge small business to stay alert to the risk of scams
24 August 2026

Four in five small and medium businesses say they have been exposed to an attempted scam in the past year, according to new research commissioned by the Australian Banking Association. This Scams Awareness Week, banks are reminding small businesses across the country to take steps to scam proof their operations and protect themselves as well… Read more »

Read more
Media Releases
Banks welcome passage of legislation to regulate Australia’s cash-in-transit sector
20 August 2026

The ABA welcomes today’s passage through the Parliament of the Cash Distribution Framework Bill 2026, an important safety net shoring up the ongoing distribution and availability of cash across the economy. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said banks continued to support customers who choose to use cash and this regulatory framework would provide greater certainty for… Read more »

Read more