Skip to main content
Financial Assistance Hub

Budget gets balance right for continued recovery

11 May 2021

Australian banks welcome this recovery focussed Budget as they continue to help their customers bounce back from the pandemic.

The 2021/2022 Federal Budget contains a welcome mix of support and investment incentives to assist households and businesses across Australia.

“The extension of business tax incentives will power the economic recovery”, said ABA CEO Anna Bligh.

“Banks have registered a major uptick in lending for equipment purchases by businesses all over the country. Tonight’s extension of temporary full expensing and loss carry-back will keep that trend going.”

The budget also includes welcome measures to further assist first homebuyers and single parents to enter the property market.

“The extension of business tax incentives will power the economic recovery”

ABA CEO Anna Bligh

The ABA also supports the Government’s continued investment in the Digital Economy Strategy, including an extra $111 million for the Consumer Data Right.

“It’s vital that this investment is backed up with legislation to modernise business communications, including through the permanent use of electronic signatures”, Ms Bligh said.

“This will improve the customer experience and streamline documentation processes. These reforms are long overdue and it’s time to expedite the planned reform.”

“Australian banks partnered with the Government throughout the pandemic. With this solid mix of investment and support for households and businesses, that collaboration is set to continue during the recovery, to the advantage of all Australians”, Ms Bligh said.


Data: banks bolster business through COVID

Latest news

1 / 3
Transcript
ABA CEO Interview on ABC Melbourne with Ali Moore
31 October 2025

E&OERadio InterviewABC Melbourne with Ali MooreThursday, 30 October 2025. Topics: Crypto ATMs; scams; cash access. Ali Moore (Host): So now there are calls to ban the ATMs to try and end the scams. Simon Birmingham is the CEO of the Australian Banking Association. Simon, hello, Simon Birmingham (Guest):  Hello Ali, great to be with you… Read more »

Read more
Media Releases
Mid-sized banks set to benefit from APRA’s move to streamline IRB accreditation
23 October 2025

The ABA welcomes APRA’s proposals to make the internal ratings-based (IRB) accreditation process simpler and more transparent, giving mid-sized banks a competitive boost. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said the changes would support competition and deliver better outcomes for customers. “This is a practical and sensible pro‑competition step from APRA,” Mr Birmingham said. “When fully implemented,… Read more »

Read more
Transcript
ABA CEO interview on Sky News Afternoon Agenda with Cheng Lei
17 October 2025

E&OEInterview on Sky News with Cheng Lei Cheng Lei: Australian banks closed 155 branches over the last year, but the rate of closures has slowed. For the implications, let’s bring in Australian Banking Association Chief Executive and former Liberal Minister Simon Birmingham. Mr Birmingham, welcome to the show – great to talk to you in… Read more »

Read more