25.02.2025
Bank Orange Reduces Variable Interest Rates in Line with RBA Decision.
Bank Orange is proud to announce a reduction in all variable lending interest rates across home and personal lending, following the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) recent rate cut.
As part of our commitment to supporting locals, these reductions will provide financial relief and greater flexibility for homeowners and borrowers during this period of economic adjustment.
“At Bank Orange, we’re dedicated to helping the Orange community achieve their financial goals,” said Lewis von Stieglitz , Chief Executive Officer at Bank Orange.
“By passing on the full RBA rate cut, we’re ensuring our members benefit from lower repayments and increased affordability.”
In addition to reducing rates for existing members, Bank Orange is also offering highly competitive refinance options. Borrowers looking to switch can take advantage of the competitive rates, and a seamless refinancing process designed to help them save.
The updated rates will take effect from Thursday 6 March.
For more information, including detailed information on current interest rates or to apply for a loan, visit bankorange.com.au or contact our lending team on 02 6362 4466.
Here’s how you can make the most of your leave next year:
📅 January 24th–27th
4-day trip (1 day leave) Kick off the year with a long weekend getaway!
📅 April 18th–28th
11-day trip (4 days leave) It’s cherry blossom season in Japan—who could resist? 🌸
📅 June 7th–15th (NSW, NT, SA, TAS & VIC)
9-day trip (4 days leave) Dreaming of a European summer escape? This is your chance. ☀️
📅 October 4th–15th (NSW, QLD, SA & ACT)
9-day trip (4 days leave) Spring in New Zealand is calling! 🌿
📅 December 20th–29th
10-day trip (4 days leave) Wrap up the year with a road trip to Queensland or a festive holiday with loved ones. 🚗
Why Plan Ahead?
These golden opportunities make it easier to fit big adventures into your busy life. Whether it’s jet-setting to far-off places or exploring local treasures, 2025 is packed with potential for amazing holidays.
Don’t Leave Home Without This
Every great trip starts with smart planning. That means packing your essentials, booking your dream destinations—and ensuring you’re covered with PassportCard travel insurance. Unexpected hiccups can happen, but with PassportCard, you’ll have peace of mind thanks to their instant payouts for approved claims anytime, anywhere! It’s the way insurance should be—quick, simple, and hassle-free!
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Terms and conditions apply. See here for more details.
Bank Orange is excited to announce our new partnership with Westfund to provide a health insurance that doesn't just do its job, but adds an extra level of care to its members.
About Westfund
Westfund helped to forge the private health industry in Australia back in 1953 – with origins dating back to 1881.
Westfund are a not-for-profit member-based health fund with offices in Orange, Bathurst, Lithgow and across Australia. They have member-first and community driven values and are a part of leading industry bodies; Australian Health Service Alliance, Members Health Fund Alliance and Private Health Australia.
Westfund have an exciting offer* for Bank Orange member - a discount of 5% off the standard premium of eligible Westfund products.**
*The offer is only available on the following products: Combined Hospital and Extras, Hospital Only
**The offer is subject to payment by direct debit and proof of Membership. Offer not available on Ambulance Only, Extras Only or Overseas products. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Discount will apply while a current MOU exists between Westfund and Bank Orange.
Find out more at https://www.westfund.com.au/corporate/bank-orange-5plus2mth/
It’s a rite of passage for every Aussie to visit Bali at least once in their lifetime—and for most travellers, one Bali experience is enough to get them hooked for life!
Before you embark on your Bali escape, it’s always good to find out a little about what you can expect so you know how to prepare for your trip and get the most out of the experience. That’s why we’ve pulled together this handy travel guide, filled with everything you need to know before you visit Bali.
Best ways to experience Bali
There’s so much to love about Bali. Without having to travel too far from Australian shores, Bali serves up a rich cultural experience with something for everyone.
With so much on offer, it can be hard to know where to start when choosing what activities to include on your itinerary—but don’t worry, here are some top ideas of things to do in Bali that will make for an unforgettable experience.
Practice yoga in Ubud - Having been practised in Bali for more than 1,000 years, many people travel to Bali every year with the sole purpose of practising yoga—and Ubud is the place to do it. The spectacular scenery alone can work wonders helping you to feel rested and restored
Sip cocktails at sunset - There are plenty of great places to relax with a cocktail while taking in the beauty of a Bali sunset, but if you’re looking for one of the best and most iconic places to do it, Rock Bar in Jimbaran is seriously impressive
Explore some of Bali’s ancient temples - Bali is home to many Pura (Hindu temples), some of which date back thousands of years. If you can, include a visit to temples like Tanah Lot, Pura Tirta Empul or Uluwatu Temple on your itinerary to experience some of Bali’s rich cultural heritage.
Visiting Bali
Climate
Bali can be beautiful to visit at most times of the year, but it is good to plan your trip around what you would most like to do while you’re there.
Bali is generally warm no matter what time you visit, with temperatures typically ranging between 28°C - 32°C year-round. The climate in Bali is however separated into the wet and dry seasons, which could influence the type of activities you’ll be able to enjoy.
The dry season runs from April through to October, making it an ideal time to travel if your idea of a Bali escape involves plenty of time spent outside. If you plan to visit during the wet season (from November to March), expect to encounter frequent downpours.
Culture and language
Bali’s culture is richly steeped in a form of Hinduism called Agama Hindu Dharma which influences almost every aspect of the way the Balinese people live, with significant focus placed on achieving a harmonious balance between people, nature and religion.
Balinese people are generally very warm and welcoming toward tourists. While the official languages in Bali include Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian) and Basa Bali (Balinese), many Bali locals also speak some English which makes it relatively easy for Australian tourists to get by in most areas of the island. You shouldn’t have any issues communicating in English in hotels or restaurants.
It is important to research and respect the local laws in Bali, as some things that might be acceptable in Australia are seriously frowned upon in Indonesia. Some activities (such as drug offenses) can attract very severe penalties, including the death penalty.
Getting around
While Bali is geographically small in size, it is densely populated and traffic jams are common, particularly in the areas which are most popular with tourists. The roads can seem somewhat chaotic compared to Australian roads, and driving can be very challenging if you’re not used to the conditions. For this reason, most tourists opt to use either taxis or private drivers to get around.
Motorbikes are another common form of transport in Bali. If you choose to hire a motorbike while in Bali, just make sure it comes with adequate vehicle insurance in case you have an accident. You’ll be pleased to know our travel insurance provides cover for claims that arise from the use of a motorbike, provided you wear a helmet and meet the local license requirements for the motorbike you are riding. If the motorbike is more than 125cc, you’ll also need to have a current and valid licence required for driving an equivalent rated Motorcycle in Australia.
Accommodation
Bali offers a variety of accommodation options including everything from luxury hotels and private villas through to budget backpacker hostels. You may even choose to stay in a Losmen, which are basic guest houses run by local Balinese families.
You’ll generally find that most of the accommodation in Bali is relatively affordable compared to what you might expect to pay in Australia when you consider the quality of the rooms and facilities and the level of service provided.
Entry requirements
If you are travelling on an Australian passport, you can apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) no later than 48 hours prior to travelling to Indonesia. Alternatively, you can also pay for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Ngurah Rai airport in Denpasar (Bali’s international airport).
It’s always a good idea to visit the Australian government’s Smartraveller website before your trip for the latest information and updates about travelling to Indonesia.
Preparing for Your Trip Checklist
Ready for your Bali escape? Here’s a handy checklist to make sure you’re set for an unforgettable getaway:
Check passport validity: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
Verify entry requirements: Confirm you meet Bali’s visitor entry requirements.
Arrange travel funds: Set up a travel currency card or payment method and consider carrying some Indonesian rupiah (IDR) for cash-only spots.
Notify your bank: Let your financial institution know you’ll be travelling.
Review phone coverage: Contact your phone provider to check if your plan covers Bali or consider a pre-paid international SIM card.
Book your accommodations and share travel details with someone at home.
Get travel insurance: We partner with PassportCard, Australia's only travel insurance with instant payouts for common claims using the PassportCard Travel Insurance. Medical issue overseas, delayed luggage or stolen cash? PassportCard can load funds onto the card so you can pay for common claims on the spot.
Find out more about PassportCard or get a quote for your next trip.
* All benefits and covers are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions listed in the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement and on other policy documentation, including the schedule. Terms and conditions of the PassportCard also apply.
Discovering Aotearoa New Zealand is an adventure you’ll cherish for a lifetime! With its breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and rich Māori heritage, New Zealand has something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing adventure or diving into Kiwi culture, this guide has everything you need to prepare for your trip across the ditch!
Best Ways to Experience New Zealand
Planning a New Zealand getaway? Here are some must-do activities to help you soak up the best of the north and south islands:
Māori Cultural Experiences in Rotorua: Rotorua is a cultural hotspot where you can explore Te Pa Tu, Mitai Māori Village, Te Puia, Whakarewarewa, and the Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park.
Bungy Jumping in Queenstown: Get an adrenaline rush by bungy jumping at the iconic AJ Hackett’s Kawarau Bridge or try swings and ziplines in this thrill-seeker’s paradise.
Skiing or Snowboarding on Mt Ruapehu: New Zealand’s largest ski resort offers slopes for every skill level. Don’t forget to add Winter Sports cover when you book your travel insurance!
Cruise Through Fiordland National Park: Explore the majestic landscapes of Fiordland, particularly Milford and Doubtful Sound. Enjoy a scenic cruise or kayak past towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, with seals, dolphins, and penguins often joining along the way.
Explore the Hobbiton Movie Set: Located in Matamata, the Hobbiton movie set offers a magical experience for movie buffs and fantasy fans alike. Stroll through the picturesque green hills and hobbit holes, then enjoy a drink at The Green Dragon Inn for a taste of Middle-earth.
Wine Tasting in Marlborough: The Marlborough region is a haven for wine lovers, particularly known for its world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc. Embark on a wine tour by bike or car, and sample wines directly from the cellar doors at vineyards like Cloudy Bay, Brancott Estate, and more.
Essentials for Your New Zealand Visit
Climate:
The summer months (December–February) bring warm weather and outdoor fun, while winter (June–August) is perfect for hitting the slopes. Expect highs of 20-30°C in summer and 10-15°C in winter.
Culture & Language:
English and Māori are New Zealand’s official languages. Respect sacred sites and Māori customs; remember, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body.
Getting Around:
Explore New Zealand by car or campervan to truly appreciate its scenic routes or take buses if you’d rather sit back and relax.
Accommodation:
From hotels to hostels, holiday parks to farm stays, New Zealand offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveller.
Entry Requirements:
Australian citizens and most permanent residents can visit without a visa. Permanent residents should apply for an NZeTA. Check Smartraveller for the latest entry advice.
Preparing for Your Trip Checklist
Ready for your New Zealand escape? Here’s a handy checklist to make sure you’re set for an unforgettable getaway:
Check passport validity: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
Verify entry requirements: Confirm you meet New Zealand’s visitor entry requirements.
Arrange travel funds: Set up a travel currency card or payment method, and consider carrying some New Zealand Dollars (NZD) for cash-only spots.
Notify your bank: Let your financial institution know you’ll be travelling.
Review phone coverage: Contact your phone provider to check if your plan covers New Zealand or consider a pre-paid international SIM card.
Book your accommodations and share travel details with someone at home.
Get travel insurance: We partner with PassportCard, Australia's only travel insurance with instant payouts for common claims using the PassportCard Travel Insurance. Medical issue overseas, delayed luggage or stolen cash? PassportCard can load funds onto the card so you can pay for common claims on the spot.
If you are skiing or doing some adventure activities, check your travel insurance for coverage. Some providers, like PassportCard, have optional cover for winter sports and adventure activities.
Find out more about PassportCard or get a quote for your next trip.
Let our team of lending specialists help make your homeownership dreams a reality with the Discount Base Variable Home Loan.
5.94% p.a
Base Variable Home Loan
5.99% p.a
Comparison Rate*
0.20% p.a discount on Base Variable Home Loan rate and waived establishment fees applies to new eligible owner-occupied home loans with principal and interest repayments approved before 31 March 2025
Features
Establishment fee:
Waived ($155)
Valuation fees included with establishment fee:
No
Ability to increase loan amount (Loan Top Up):
Yes
Additional repayments accepted:
Yes
Additional repayments fee:
$0
Annual fee:
$0
Can be used for building:
Yes
Early repayments without penalty:
Yes
Easy to apply for loan:
Yes
Discharge fee:
$200
Interest charges:
Calculated daily, charged monthly
Loan term:
up to 30 years
Maximum loan-to-value ratio:
95%#
Minimum amount:
$150,000
Mortgage offset:
No
Rate term:
Variable
Repayments:
Monthly, Fortnightly, Weekly
Redraw facility:
Yes
Redraw fee:
$0
