MoneyTips Weekly News Wrap: Australia’s Headlines and Insights
Stay across Australia’s week in news with a clear, reliable wrap. Each episode distils major stories in the economy, policy, markets and consumer trends, explaining what happened, why it matters, and what to watch next. Expect concise summaries, credible sources and plain-English context tailored to everyday Australians. Designed to help you cut through noise and stay informed, it’s a trustworthy weekly brief you can count on, delivered with a calm, approachable tone.
This Week:
This week: first‑home buyer lending surges and total new home loans hit a record; the government introduces a super bill targeting very large balances while lifting the LISTO for low‑income workers; what to do with gift cards after a retailer enters administration; and trustee scrutiny ramps up with a major review. Practical takeaways include comparing loan offers, checking super settings, using gift cards quickly or seeking chargebacks, and reviewing fund fees and communications.
EPISODE 1301 | MoneyTips Weekly News Wrap: Australia’s Headlines and Insights | Fri, 20th Feb 2026
23 Feb 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to MoneyTips Weekly News Wrap: Australias Headlines and Insights, Im Paige Estritori, and its Friday, 20 February 2026.
First up, first‑home buyers are back in force. New lending jumped in the December quarter, with first‑home buyer loans up by about 16%, and total new home lending hitting a record. The average new owner‑occupier loan also climbed, meaning bigger repayments if rates rise again. If youre in the market, compare offers and fees, stress‑test repayments with our calculators, and dont rush a pre‑approval.
Next, the government has introduced a superannuation bill aimed at very large balances, alongside a lift to the low‑income super tax offset, or LISTO, for workers earning up to about forty‑five thousand dollars. Only a small share of high‑balance members would face higher tax under the proposal, while more lower‑income Australians could get a boost to their super. Its not law yet, so keep an eye on Parliament. In the meantime, check your balance and contribution settings and run a quick projection to see how small changes add up.
Meanwhile, a heads‑up for gift card holders after Barbeques Galore entered voluntary administration on 12 February. Administrators can set conditions in insolvency, and the consumer watchdog, the ACCC, notes that means cards may only be honoured if you spend extra. If you can, use cards promptly, keep receipts, and if you paid for a card with a bank card, ask your bank about a chargeback within the time limit. Our scam and consumer rights guides can help you spot red flags before you tap to pay.
Finally, trustee scrutiny is tightening. One major trustee has begun a strategic review of its superannuation arm after legal and governance costs linked to collapsed investment schemes. For fund members, its a reminder to watch trustee updates, review your funds fees and options, and make sure the product still fits your goals and risk tolerance.
Thats the wrap. For clear financial services information, simple money tips, comparisons, quotes, and calculators made for Australians, head to money-tips.com.au. Im Paige Estritori—thanks for listening, and Ill see you next week.
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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