Australian businesses are reporting major productivity gains after upgrading vehicles, machinery and technology.
New CommBank Asset Finance data shows nearly nine in ten firms have lifted output by more than 10 per cent following recent investments3. Bigger firms are capturing the biggest uplift, with more than half reporting productivity improvements of 20 to 50 per cent, driven by newer, more efficient equipment.
The findings point to steady investment activity across the economy, with 68 per cent4 of companies taking up new asset finance arrangements in the past year. New CommBank data also showed a 20 per cent jump in vehicle and equipment financing in December 2025 (compared to December 2024).
Agriculture and manufacturing drive investment upswing
CommBank General Manager of Asset Finance, Renee Theodor, said a surge in December financing was typical end‑of‑year activity, but in 2025 it was happening “at a much higher level”.
“The end of the year is often an attractive time to purchase, with suppliers offering incentives to move existing stock ahead of new model launches. This allows businesses to secure better pricing and begin the new year with upgraded equipment ready for work,” Theodor said.
Strongest growth was recorded across equipment categories central to Australia’s industrial and regional sectors (December 2024 vs December 2025 CBA Asset financing):
- Agricultural machinery – up 116%
- Manufacturing & industrial equipment – up 76%
- Retail and office fitouts – up 64%
- Technology assets – up 48%
- Trucks – up 18%
Theodor said more businesses were planning investments in hybrid and electric vehicles, earthmoving equipment and office technology this year5 as they focused on productivity and efficiency.
Industry feedback also showed companies are taking a more strategic approach to fleet upgrades, with research indicating almost a third were targeting productivity gains through improved vehicle efficiency.
Outlook for 2026: demand strengthening, speed essential
Investment and demand for asset finance was expected to continue rising in 2026, Theodor said.
“The biggest thing businesses want is speed. On our side, that means fast approvals and certainty when they’re ready to invest.”
Theodor said CommBank is continuing to invest in automation to cut turnaround times and deliver faster approvals and funding for customers.
The bank has also temporarily lowered its minimum financed amount for eligible customers* from $20,000 to $10,000 until 30 June 2026, supporting smaller but high impact upgrades under the Federal Government’s Instant Asset WriteOff program.
“Smaller assets can still deliver big productivity gains,” Theodor said. “We want to make it as easy as possible for businesses to invest.”
CommBank is the largest primary asset finance provider in Australia [according to the latest East & Partners Industry Research], with a central role in supporting business investment across the economy, Theodor said.
* Eligibility limited to BizExpress Proprietary customers with standard assets
