The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has initiated a comprehensive review of the motor vehicle finance sector, with a particular focus on consumer protection aspects, especially for borrowers in regional and remote areas, including First Nations communities. This review is aimed at evaluating the compliance of lenders, brokers, and intermediaries with responsible lending obligations.
Key areas under scrutiny include lending practices, loan default management, hardship practices, and dispute resolution processes within the motor vehicle finance sector. The review initially encompasses seven lenders, with plans to expand the assessment to include additional brokers and intermediaries as the project progresses. ASIC has made it clear that enforcement actions will be taken if any misconduct is detected during the review.
ASIC’s emphasis on consumer protection in the motor vehicle finance sector is timely, considering the broader scrutiny of car finance practices in the UK. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK is currently investigating discretionary commission arrangements (DCAs) to determine if lenders and motor finance firms have violated consumer protection regulations, potentially resulting in financial harm to consumers.
Concerns over misconduct in used car finance sold to vulnerable consumers have been highlighted as a top enforcement priority for ASIC in 2025. In line with this commitment, ASIC has already taken legal action against Money3 Loans, a car finance company, for alleged breaches of responsible lending obligations. Legal proceedings have also been initiated against car dealership Diamond Wheels, Keo Automotive, and a former director for issuing unlicensed car loans with excessive interest rates.
With the aim of enhancing industry compliance and improving lending practices to reduce consumer harm, ASIC plans to release initial findings of the review in the latter part of 2025. The review’s ultimate goal is to foster a more transparent and consumer-friendly environment within the motor vehicle finance sector.
The regulatory actions taken by ASIC underscore the importance of upholding consumer protection standards in the lending industry. By closely monitoring lending practices and enforcing compliance with responsible lending obligations, regulators play a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of borrowers and ensuring fair and ethical conduct within the financial services sector.
As ASIC continues its review of the motor vehicle finance sector, industry stakeholders are encouraged to adhere to regulatory guidelines and prioritize consumer protection in their operations. By promoting a culture of responsible lending and ethical business practices, lenders, brokers, and intermediaries can contribute to a more sustainable and trustworthy financial landscape for all consumers.
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