Australia consistently ranks strongly in global comparisons of financial markets. Of the 131 countries surveyed by the World Economic Forum for the Global Competitiveness Report 2007-08, Australia ranked eighth in the world for the sophistication of its financial markets. The same survey also ranked Australian banks ninth in the world for the soundness of their balance sheets, ahead of the United States, Singapore and Hong Kong SAR. These rankings support Sydney's claim as a leading centre for global finance in the Asia Pacific.

The strength and sophistication of Australian banks have been major factors in the country's remarkable record of economic resilience over the past decade. Australia’s high standard of corporate, financial and regulatory governance makes it a model in the Asia Pacific.

Total new commercial lending by banks, finance companies and money market corporations increased by 26% in 2007 and has averaged annual growth of 16% in the last five years. The secure availability of capital allows businesses to confidently finance their growth strategies and investment.