As cost-of-living pressures mount, more Australians are scrutinising loan fees and rates before borrowing, a shift reflected in Canstar’s latest value rankings.

Melbourne, Australia (PRUnderground) August 13th, 2026

Handy Finance has been named Canstar’s Outstanding Value Personal Loans provider for the fourth year running. The Australian online lender picked up the award as more borrowers weigh up their loan options amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures.

The Canstar award assesses providers on pricing, fees and overall value in the personal loan market. It reflects how competitive a lender’s rates and terms are compared with others in the same space.

That kind of comparison matters more as household budgets stay under pressure, with many borrowers now factoring in ongoing fees and repayment flexibility alongside the headline interest rate. Comparing rates, fees and loan terms across providers is one of the more effective ways to cut the total cost of a loan, according to ASIC’s MoneySmart.

Fixed rates and fee structures are also a growing part of that comparison. Ongoing account fees and early repayment penalties can add to the total cost of a loan, even when the advertised rate looks competitive.

Handy Finance’s personal loans offer fixed rates, no ongoing fees and no early repayment fees. Loan amounts range from $2,001 to $75,000, extending to $100,000 for eligible home improvement or vehicle purchases. Repayment terms range from 1 to 7 years, with weekly, fortnightly, or monthly options available to suit different budgets.

Recent figures point to why that flexibility matters.

ABS data shows employee household living costs rose 1.5% in the June 2026 quarter, driven largely by mortgage interest charges as the RBA passed on cash rate increases. As more Australians look to stretch household budgets further, scrutinising the full cost of a loan has become a bigger part of how borrowers make financial decisions.

Handy Finance’s four consecutive Canstar awards, spanning 2022 to 2025, reflect that shift toward value and transparency in the personal loan market.

About Handy Finance

Handy Finance is an Australian online lender offering personal loans with fixed rates and transparent pricing. Finance is provided to approved applicants by OurMoneyMarket Lending Pty Ltd (ABN 64 605 231 669), trading as Handy Finance, which holds Australian Credit Licence number 488228 and is a member of the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).

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Matthew Wears | matthew.wears@impressive.com.au | 0430482572

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