(3 March 2026 – Australia) More Australian enterprises are getting productivity gains from upgrading old equipment, tech, and vehicles, with farmers and manufacturers leading a recent investment surge.
New CommBank Asset Finance data based on proprietary East & Partners research shows nearly nine in ten firms have lifted output by more than ten percent following recent investments. Larger sized firms are capturing the biggest uplift, with more than half reporting productivity improvements of 20 to 50 percent, driven by newer, more efficient equipment.
Australian businesses are reporting major productivity gains after upgrading vehicles, machinery and technology. CBA recorded a 20 percent year-on-year increase in vehicle and equipment financing in December 2025 while 88 percent of enterprises reported productivity gains above ten percent following recent asset upgrades.
“A surge in December financing is 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” stated CommBank General Manager of Asset Finance, Renee Theodor.
“More businesses are planning investments in hybrid and electric vehicles, earthmoving equipment and office technology this year as they focus on productivity and efficiency” Theodor added.
“Investment and demand for asset finance is expected to continue rising in 2026. The biggest thing businesses want is speed. On our side, that means fast approvals and certainty when they’re ready to invest. CommBank is continuing to invest in automation to cut turnaround times and deliver faster approvals and funding for customers.”
“Smaller assets can still deliver big productivity gains. 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.”
“It’s great to see many Australian businesses accelerating their productivity by upgrading their assets. Our latest CommBank Business and Institutional Asset Finance insights show what many of our customers are telling us. Upgrading equipment, vehicles and technology isn’t just about keeping up, it’s about unlocking efficiency, reducing downtime and setting up for long‑term resilience” commented CommBank Executive General Manager, Business Lending, Grant Cairns.
“Across sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, businesses are choosing smarter, more modern assets. Proud of the work our teams are doing to support our customers and help businesses invest and grow” Cairns added.