Australian Car Finance Motoring, Market and Policy News
Each week, Australian Car Finance brings a clear, trustworthy wrap of the biggest motoring and market stories. We sift through policy updates, dealership trends, EV developments, ownership costs, consumer rights, and industry data to help you stay informed and confident. Expect concise headlines, plain-English context, and what it means for Australian drivers and car buyers. No hype—just a dependable, repeatable briefing you can catch on your commute, so you’re up to speed before the weekend.
This Week:
Paige Estritori recaps the week for Australian car finance. The RBA held the cash rate at 4.35% on 16 June with a firm tone, and lenders have since inched some fixed rates up while term deposit returns rose. Market confidence is soft, so car loan pricing may remain tight; listeners are urged to compare options, check pre‑approval windows, and budget a repayment buffer. EV momentum continues, with one in six new cars now electric; green loans and FBT‑exempt novated leases may suit eligible buyers. With EOFY on 30 June and fuel risks still present, factor running costs into your car finance plan.
EPISODE 2186 | Australian Car Finance Motoring, Market and Policy News | Tue, 23rd Jun 2026
26 Jun 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to Australian Car Finance Motoring, Market and Policy News; Im Paige Estritori, and its Tuesday, 23 June 2026.
First up, interest rates. The Reserve Bank of Australia, or RBA, held the cash rate at four point three five per cent last Tuesday, 16 June, but its message stayed firm on fighting inflation. Since then, several lenders have nudged fixed rates higher while term deposit returns also crept up. For car buyers, that means the cost of funds is still tight and pricing can shift quickly. Build a small repayment buffer, compare options side by side, and if youre close to buying, check your pre‑approval window so youre ready to move when you find the right car.
Meanwhile, the broader market is slowing, with weaker confidence flowing through housing and credit. That can keep lenders cautious on pricing, and it can also make advertised specials more selective. The practical move? Use a car finance comparison with clear comparison rates and fees, and run a quick repayment check with a calculator so you know what fits your budget before you step into a dealership.
On the motoring side, electric vehicles keep gaining traction. One in six new cars sold last month was electric, reflecting better model choice and sharper running costs. If youre weighing up an EV, note that some lenders offer green car loans, and a novated lease can be attractive for eligible employees because of the current fringe benefits tax, or FBT, exemption on qualifying EVs. Compare total cost of ownership against a standard car loan, and check eligibility before you commit.
And with end of financial year, or EOFY, landing on 30 June, keep an eye on fuel and your overall running costs. Global oil moves are still filtering through, and if temporary pump relief winds back at month‑end, petrol could tick higher. If youre budgeting a new car, factor in fuel economy—or charging costs for hybrids and EVs—so your repayments and day‑to‑day costs stay comfortable.
Thats the wrap. For transparent comparisons, easy calculators, and guidance through pre‑approval, head to australian-car-finance.com. Im Paige Estritori—thanks for listening, and safe driving.
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.
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Knowledgebase
Derivative: A financial security whose value is dependent upon or derived from an underlying asset or group of assets.
