Skip to main content
Financial Assistance Hub

Response to Productivity Commission final report

3 August 2018

Australian banks welcome competition and compete not only through price, but through constant innovations to product features and experiences. Banks are constantly working to ensure customer satisfaction and the availability of quality products.

The Productivity Commission’s report highlights that competition among financial providers is increasing, noting the presence of new market entrants, the positive impact of mortgage broking and the improvement of technology.

Mortgage lending products are highly competitive, with 141 authorised financial providers (ADIs) offering products to suit varied consumer needs. Banks also offer Australian households innovative features and services at competitive prices.

That competition has seen one in five of us switch accounts over the past year.

The ABA believes strongly that competition will improve further with the introduction of Open Banking, Comprehensive Credit Reporting and regulatory reforms to further reduce barriers to new entrants.

In addition, the new ASIC approved Banking Code of Practice has specific requirements regarding transparency and providing information to consumers to help them be better informed.

The Australian Banking Association and its members look forward to considering the Productivity Commission’s report and findings in full.

ENDS
Contact: Kelly Stevens 0475 741 007

Latest news

1 / 3
Media Releases
Former ASIC Commissioner Sean Hughes appointed Chair ofthe Banking Code Compliance Committee
16 January 2026

In conjunction with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), the ABA is pleased to announce the appointment of former ASIC Commissioner Mr Sean Hughes as the next Chair of the Banking Code Compliance Committee (BCCC).   Mr Hughes served as a Commissioner at ASIC from 2018 to 2023 and brings deep expertise in financial services… Read more »

Read more
Op-Ed
Op-Ed: Your super is footing the bill for someone else’s gamble
15 January 2026

The CSLR was intended to give basic protection to mum and dad-type investors. It should not be a collectively funded vehicle for removing investment risk from society.

Read more
Media Releases
Banks offer support to customers impacted by the Victorian bushfires
12 January 2026

Australian banks are rolling out disaster support to customers affected by the current bushfires in Victoria. ABA CEO Simon Birmingham said banks were continuing to monitor the evolving situation across Victoria and are on standby to assist impacted customers. “This is an extremely challenging time for many Victorian communities, households and businesses,” Mr Birmingham said.   “There are now special arrangements in place for those who may need additional financial assistance from their bank in the coming days, weeks and months.  “Banks have highly… Read more »

Read more