Finance Australia's Weekly Money and Business News
Each week, we round up the biggest money and business stories across Australia — from rate moves and market shifts to policy updates and consumer trends. Expect clear context, concise takeaways, and what it could mean for households and SMEs. No fluff, no hype — just trustworthy headlines, quick explainers, and signals to watch so you can stay informed and make organised decisions.
This Week:
This week: the ATO delays its credit card payment ban until July 2027, giving SMEs more time to adjust cash flow; consumer sentiment slumps after the latest RBA hike, pointing to softer spending; savings rates hit about 6% on select accounts, but with tight conditions; and a new rule stops life insurers using adverse genetic test results. Listeners are urged to plan BAS and repayments, compare finance options, and use calculators and brokers for clearer decisions.
EPISODE 3210 | Finance Australia\'s Weekly Money and Business News | Sun, 11th Oct 2026
11 Oct 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to Finance Australias Weekly Money and Business News, Im Paige Estritori, and its Sunday, 11 October 2026.
First up, the ATO has delayed its plan to stop taking credit card payments for tax until July 2027. This follows the nationwide ban on card surcharges that began on October one and sparked concerns about cash flow, especially for SMEs. Some state revenue offices will still accept cards, but federal agencies are reviewing costs. Use this window to map BAS and PAYG dates, set up BPAY or direct debit, and if youve been leaning on cards for timing, consider a working‑capital facility or equipment finance. We can help with free eligibility checks and side‑by‑side quote comparisons so youre not overpaying on fees or rates.
Next up, consumer sentiment fell again in October, and among people surveyed after the late‑September rate rise, confidence slumped to levels not seen since the late 1990s. Households are pulling back, so retailers and service businesses should brace for softer sales and longer decision times. If your repayments have jumped, talk to a broker, run the numbers with a repayment calculator, and compare options before you refix or refinance. For SMEs, stress‑test your next quarter and keep a simple cash buffer plan.
Meanwhile, savers finally caught a break this week, with ongoing savings rates hitting about six per cent in select accounts. Many of the top deals are for younger customers or come with monthly hoops, and some headline sixes are only introductory for a few months. For everyone else, the best ongoing rates are still in the mid‑fives and often have balance caps. Check the fine print, use calculators to see your net return after conditions, and compare across providers so you lock in value without surprises.
And a quick policy note: from October eight, life insurers can no longer use adverse genetic test results in underwriting. That removes a barrier for people considering preventive testing. If youve been putting it off due to cover concerns, the rules have changed; its also a good prompt for owners to review personal risk settings alongside business finance.
Thats the wrap. For tools, free eligibility assessments, and broker support across personal and business finance, head to finance-australia.
et. Im Paige Estritori—thanks for listening and Ill catch you next week.
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