Australia

ASIC Launches Interactive Dashboard for Financial Complaints Data

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has launched a new interactive dashboard providing unprecedented access to consumer complaints data. The dashboard allows users to compare complaints reported by individual financial firms, enhancing transparency and accountability within the financial services industry.

RBA Increases Cash Rate Target by 25 Basis Points

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has increased its cash rate target by 25 basis points to 4.10 per cent. This decision was made due to rising inflation pressures, increased capacity pressures, and higher fuel prices stemming from the conflict in the Middle East.

WHS Laws Consultation Summary Published

Safe Work Australia has published a summary of feedback received during public consultation for the Best Practice Review of the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws. The summary outlines key themes and issues raised by over 1000 responses, which will inform the final report to WHS ministers.

ASIC Consultation: Remaking Exchange-Traded Warrant Relief Instruments

ASIC is seeking feedback on its proposal to remake two legislative instruments related to exchange-traded warrants, which are due to sunset in 2026. Minor amendments are proposed to improve clarity and align with current legislation. Feedback is due by 24 March 2026.

APRA Consults on Bank Capital and Liquidity Reforms

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) is consulting on reforms to bank capital and liquidity settings. The proposed changes aim to enhance the resilience of Australia's financial system by updating liquidity frameworks to align with international practice and making the capital framework more risk-sensitive. The reforms are expected to be broadly cost-neutral for the industry.

APRA Remarks on Australia's Financial System Vulnerabilities

APRA Chairman John Lonsdale delivered remarks at the 2026 AFR Banking Summit, outlining vulnerabilities in Australia's financial system and announcing plans to strengthen liquidity frameworks for large banks. Measures are also proposed to ease regulatory burdens for smaller banks.

ASIC Consults on Bolstering Transparency for Listed Entities

ASIC is consulting on proposals to enhance corporate transparency for entities listed on Australian financial markets. The reforms, stemming from the Treasury Laws Amendment Act 2025, aim to increase investor visibility of ownership and control, including through equity derivatives. Feedback is due by April 21, 2026.

ASIC Refreshes Moneysmart Website for Young Australians

ASIC has refreshed its Moneysmart website to improve accessibility and relevance for young Australians seeking financial guidance. The update includes a new design, updated content, and fresh imagery to provide trusted, independent financial information.

ASIC Eases PDS Rules for Strata Insurance Providers

ASIC has introduced new relief measures for residential strata insurance providers. Under the changes, only the lead insurer will be required to prepare a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), with a supplementary PDS listing other participating insurers.

ASIC Withdraws and Updates Regulatory Guides

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has withdrawn Regulatory Guide 64 (Failure to lodge documents) and Regulatory Guide 40 (Good transaction fee disclosure). ASIC also made minor updates to Regulatory Guide 104 (AFS licensing: Meeting the general obligations) and Regulatory Guide 205 (Credit licensing: General conduct obligations) to improve clarity and accuracy.