CBA Increases Business Loan Rates Following RBA Decision

The Commonwealth Bank will increase interest rates on a range of variable-rate business loans after the Reserve Bank of Australia lifted the official cash rate by 0.25 per cent. CommBank also conformed to SMBtech that it’s, “Currently reviewing the interest rates for our savings products.”

The changes, which take effect from 13 February 2026, will apply to a broad set of CBA’s business lending products, including BetterBusiness Loans and Business Overdrafts.

Affected rates include the Variable Base Rate, Commercial Variable Base Rate, Residential Equity Rate, Commercial Residential Equity Rate, Overdraft Reference Rate and Commercial Overdraft Reference Rate.

Rate Hike Comes Amid Persistent Inflation

CBA’s Group Executive Business Banking, Mike Vacy-Lyle, said the rate increase reflects underlying strength in the economy as 2025 came to a close, but acknowledged it will be difficult for some businesses.

“Australia’s economy ended 2025 with more momentum than many expected, reinforcing strong business activity and household demand, supported by a labour market that remains tight,” he said.

“This resilience is positive, but it also means the economy continues to operate close to, or above full capacity, adding to inflationary pressures. We recognise the Reserve Bank’s actions are aimed at returning inflation to target and preserving long term economic stability.”

Vacy-Lyle said the bank understood the added pressure on businesses already facing rising operating costs.

“Our priority is to support customers through this environment, and our teams are here to discuss options to help businesses manage the impact of these changes,” he said.

Business Support Options Remain Available

CBA said support is available for businesses needing help, including flexible finance arrangements and digital tools to manage cash flow.

“We encourage any customers needing support to reach out early to our dedicated Business Financial Assistance team,” Vacy-Lyle said.

Support offerings include:

• Free cash flow tracking via the Business Cash Flow tool in the CommBank app

• Bill Sense to help forecast upcoming bills

• Daily IQ insights to help businesses understand performance and customer trends

• Business Masterclass modules focused on AI and cash flow management

• Discounts and offers through CommBank Yello for Business rewards program

• Financial relief such as deferred repayments or debt restructuring for eligible customers

More information is available via commbank.com.au or by contacting the 24/7 Business Financial Assistance line on 13 26 07.

Last Updated on February 4, 2026 by Nick Ross