RIC Holds Farm Loan Interest Rate at 5.18% Starting February 2026

Providing Stability for Farmers Amid Financial Pressures

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) has announced that its variable interest rate for farm business loans will remain at 5.18% from 1 February 2026, offering stability to farmers facing financial pressures.

This decision marks the fourth consecutive review where the rate has been held steady, reinforcing RIC's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector during uncertain economic times.

RIC CEO John Howard emphasized that maintaining the rate provides certainty for farmers managing cash flow and financial planning. Over the past year, RIC loan customers have saved an average of 2.26% in interest payments compared to commercial bank loans. For a typical $1 million loan, this equates to potential savings of over $22,000 annually, offering significant financial relief to farmers.

By keeping the interest rate unchanged, RIC aims to support farm businesses in navigating economic challenges, ensuring they have access to affordable financing options. This stability is particularly crucial as farmers plan for the year ahead, allowing them to focus on productivity and growth without the added concern of fluctuating loan costs.

Published:Sunday, 26th Apr 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Finance News

ASIC Highlights Concerns in Private Lending Sector

26 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has conducted a comprehensive review of the private lending sector, revealing significant inconsistencies and potential risks. This scrutiny comes in response to the sector's rapid expansion, with private credit extending approximately $200 billion in loans, primarily to high-risk real estate developers and property investors. - read more

Regulators Focus on Non-Bank Lenders Amid Rising Popularity

26 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

As more Australians turn to non-bank lenders for property loans, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) have intensified their scrutiny of this rapidly growing sector. The shift is driven by borrowers seeking more flexible lending criteria and competitive rates, especially in a housing market characterized by high prices and stringent bank lending standards. - read more

Understanding Australia's 2026 Lending Rule Changes

26 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

In 2026, Australia's lending landscape is undergoing significant transformations, directly impacting borrowers' capacities and loan eligibility. Key changes include the introduction of debt-to-income (DTI) limits, tightened lending criteria for trusts and companies, and adjustments in fixed-rate loan pricing. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Finance Articles

Maximizing Your Borrowing Power: Strategies for Home Loan Comparison

When you're on the journey to owning your dream home, securing the right home loan is as critical as choosing the perfect location. The benefits of using online home loan calculators can't be overstated, as they wield the power to illuminate the murky depths of mortgage rates, terms, and payments with surprising precision. - read more

The Great Debate: Pros and Cons of Refinancing Your Home Loan

In recent years, refinancing has emerged as a popular financial strategy for many Australian homeowners. With the housing market's dynamic nature and fluctuating interest rates, more people are considering the benefits of refinancing their home loans. This trend is not surprising, as refinancing can potentially reduce monthly payments, secure lower interest rates, and assist with debt consolidation. - read more

Online Loan Application Essentials: What to Know Before You Click Submit

Welcome to the digital age, where online loans in Australia offer convenience and accessibility like never before. With a few clicks, financing for your next big purchase or consolidation of existing debts is at your fingertips. However, venturing into the world of online lending without a compass can leave you navigating choppy waters. - read more

Knowledgebase

Compound Interest:
Interest calculated on the initial principal, which also includes all accumulated interest from previous periods.

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.

IMPORTANT: We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party brokers, insurers, and lenders. We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should independently verify the credentials and licensing of any adviser or provider you engage. Visit the ASIC website for further information.

RIC Holds Farm Loan Interest Rate at 5.18% Starting February 2026

Providing Stability for Farmers Amid Financial Pressures

Share this news item:

Free Loan Eligibility Assessment