Business Loan Finance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Australian Banks Tighten Trust Lending Policies in Response to Regulatory Oversight

Understanding the Implications of Recent Changes in Trust Lending by Major Australian Banks

Australian Banks Tighten Trust Lending Policies in Response to Regulatory Oversight?w=400

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.

In a significant shift within Australia's financial sector, major lenders Macquarie Bank and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) have recently implemented stricter policies regarding lending to trusts and companies.
These changes are indicative of a broader industry response to regulatory concerns about systemic risks in housing finance.

Macquarie Bank announced a pause on new home loan applications from trusts and companies in late October 2025. This decision was influenced by the proliferation of social media strategies promoting the use of trusts for investment purposes, which raised concerns about potential misuse of trust structures. Additionally, upcoming anti-money laundering regulations are expected to complicate trust and company lending processes, contributing to Macquarie's cautious approach.

Similarly, CBA introduced restrictions effective from 22 November 2025, requiring non-individual borrowers to have an existing lending facility with the bank that has been active for at least six months. This policy change aims to simplify the loan origination process and reinforce prudent lending standards.

These developments underscore the importance for investors and borrowers to stay informed about evolving lending policies. Understanding the rationale behind these changes can help in navigating the complexities of property investment and financing in Australia.

Published:Thursday, 5th Feb 2026
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Australian Mortgage Demand Surges Amidst Refinancing Boom
Australian Mortgage Demand Surges Amidst Refinancing Boom
05 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In July 2025, Australia witnessed a significant uptick in mortgage demand, marking a 6.4% increase compared to the same month in 2024. This surge is primarily driven by a notable rise in refinancing activities, which accounted for 36.2% of total mortgage enquiries during the period. - read more
Australian Business Lending Sees Robust Growth in June 2025
Australian Business Lending Sees Robust Growth in June 2025
05 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In June 2025, Australia's non-financial business lending reached a record $1.14 trillion, reflecting a 9.2% increase compared to the same month in 2024. This growth rate nearly doubles that of housing credit, which expanded by 5.6% year-on-year, highlighting a renewed appetite for corporate borrowing. - read more
Australia's Mobile Wallet Payments Exceed $160 Billion in 2025
Australia's Mobile Wallet Payments Exceed $160 Billion in 2025
05 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In the year leading up to July 2025, Australians conducted over $160 billion in mobile wallet payments, marking a substantial shift towards digital banking. The Australian Banking Association's (ABA) 2025 'Bank on It' report reveals that the number of mobile wallet transactions surpassed four billion, outnumbering ATM withdrawals by more than eleven times. - read more
Australian Banks Tighten Trust Lending Policies in Response to Regulatory Oversight
Australian Banks Tighten Trust Lending Policies in Response to Regulatory Oversight
05 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant shift within Australia's financial sector, major lenders Macquarie Bank and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) have recently implemented stricter policies regarding lending to trusts and companies. These changes are indicative of a broader industry response to regulatory concerns about systemic risks in housing finance. - read more


Business Loans Articles

Building a Strong Business Plan: The Key to Securing Financing
Building a Strong Business Plan: The Key to Securing Financing
In the vibrant world of startups, securing funding is often the key to turning a business idea into a reality. For Australian entrepreneurs, understanding the landscape of available financial resources is crucial. Whether you're launching a tech startup in Sydney or opening a new café in Melbourne, accessing capital can be a deciding factor in your venture's success. - read more
Funding for Australian Startups: Exploring Your Options
Funding for Australian Startups: Exploring Your Options
Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established business owner, understanding your funding options is crucial in turning your innovative ideas into reality. The path to securing the right financial support can be both thrilling and challenging, making informed decisions a critical part of your success story. - read more
The Role of Government Grants in Financing Your Startup
The Role of Government Grants in Financing Your Startup
Government grants can be a lifeline for startups seeking funds to launch or expand their businesses. These grants are sums of money provided by governmental bodies that do not require repayment, making them an attractive option for entrepreneurs. - read more
How to Craft a Winning Pitch to Attract Investors
How to Craft a Winning Pitch to Attract Investors
Creating a compelling pitch is crucial for any entrepreneur seeking to attract investors. It's more than just presenting numbers and forecasts; it's about connecting on a human level and conveying your vision effectively. - read more


Free Assessment

Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Interest Coverage Ratio:
A measure of a company's ability to make interest payments on its debt, calculated as EBIT divided by interest expense.