Why Fast Easy Loans Are Increasing in Popularity

accountant banking approving loan

There are a whole heap of situations in modern society where a fast easy loan can save the day. In this article we’re going to explain why quick and short-term loans (often named “payday” loans” have become so popular in recent years. Unsure whether or not a fast loan is the right option for your […]

Are Payday Loans A Good Idea?

calculator on table financial cost - instant payday loans

If you haven’t used Cigno before, you might be wondering how a payday loan can help get you out of that financial quicksand. But before we go any further, it is important to remember that a payday loan should only be used as needed, when you know you can afford the repayments. Our loans at […]

Here’s Why You Should Be Budgeting

piled coins accounting budget - payday loans

A lot of people often ask, why bother budgeting? There are plenty of reasons! Budget setting can be a very powerful tool in saving money and achieving financial independence. This blog post will outline some of the most effective ways to budget, in order to reach your monetary goals. We will get into the nitty […]

Start An Online Business Today!

online business laptop home office

Are you tired of working the same old 9 to 5? Want to be your own boss? Go digital! Get online and start your business today! Money doesn’t define happiness, especially when it comes to career. A lot of the time, job satisfaction is far more important than payday. Ask yourself: are you happy in […]

Places to Put On Your Travel Bucket List for 2018!

planning travels on world map

Now that we are firmly into the new year, where are you planning on going to escape? Everyone needs a holiday, and if you are like a large percentage of Australians, you like to travel overseas. Whatever it is you enjoy—relaxing, adventure, hot or cold climates—there is something on this list for everyone. Save up […]

How to Be a Financially Secure Female Entrepreneur

four female entrepreneurs in conversation

There are many exciting successful entrepreneurs young women can look up to these days. If you want a better financial future you should study what has worked for them in the past, try to adapt it to your life. Bianca Harge-Hazelman says Jo Burston’s tips for women on money are easy to understand but you […]

The Complete Guide to Avoiding Payday Loan Scams

With technology becoming increasingly more advanced, it’s becoming easier and easier to fall victim to personal loan scams. When you’re in financial stress and desperately need a loan, it can become even harder to see the signs of a loan scam. By being aware of some common tell-tale signs of a possible personal loan scam […]

How to Get More Value From Your Paycheck Advance

Close up image of business partners making handshake

This just in: Australian household debt is at a record high. The report also mentioned that 30% of Australian households are in some sort of financial stress and that the country is going to go through a debt hangover according to the Financial Counselling Australia. To say that it’s not looking good for a lot […]

When You Shouldn’t Apply for Same Day Payday Loans

Applying for a Payday Loan Approved

Same day payday loans, as well as payday loans in general, tend to have a lot of stigma around them. However, payday loans can be an excellent alternative with emergency financial situations arise. But when are same day payday loans a good idea, and when are they more hassle than beneficial? We put together a guide […]

Are Instant Payday Loans Instant Solutions?

male hand pressing payday loan key button

If you’re wondering about whether an instant payday loan is the choice for you, check this out – we’re sharing everything you need to know about this tool. Let’s face it – we’ve all been in situations where an extra $100, $300 or even $500 could have done us a world of good, and gotten […]

NOTIFICATION OF MISCONDUCT BY CIGNO AUSTRALIA

Ordered by the Federal Court of Australia

The Federal Court of Australia has found that Cigno Australia Pty Ltd (Cigno Australia) and BSF Solutions Pty Ltd (BSF Solutions) have breached the law by engaging in unlicensed credit activity and charging prohibited fees.

In the period from July 2022 to 3 October 2023, over 100,000 consumers have been lent a total of $34 million, and charged fees of over $70 million, under the ‘No Upfront Charge Loan Model’ operated by BSF Solutions and Cigno Australia. At no time has either BSF Solutions or Cigno Australia held an Australian Credit Licence.

The Court also found that Mark Swanepoel (director of Cigno Australia) and Brenton James Harrison (director of BSF Solutions) were involved in these breaches of the law.

With effect from 24 May 2024, the Court has granted permanent injunctions preventing Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions from:

  • demanding, receiving or accepting fees or charges, including amounts of loan principal, from consumers in relation to credit provided under the ‘No Upfront Charge Model’; and
  • engaging in further credit activity pursuant to the ‘No Upfront Charge Loan Model’, including by entering into new agreements with consumers, for so long as they do not hold an Australian Credit Licence.

Cigno Australia was ordered by the Court to, by 5th July 2024, send written communications to consumers who between July 2022 and December 2022 entered into agreements with Cigno Australia and BSF Solutions under the ‘No Upfront Charge Loan Model’.

The Court will later determine whether (among other things) Cigno Australia and Mark Swanepoel ought to pay a pecuniary penalty in respect of this conduct, and whether Mark Swanepoel should be restrained from carrying on a business engaging in credit activity.

Cigno Australia, BSF Solutions, Mr Swanepoel and Mr Harrison intend to appeal the decision of the Court and have filed an application for leave to appeal. If the appeal is successful, some or all of the orders of the Federal Court of Australia may be set aside.

Where can you get more information?

Where to go for further support

You can access legal advice in your state at: Free legal advice – Moneysmart.gov.au.

If you are experiencing trouble with debt, or money worries in general, contact:

  • the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 or online chat (9:30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday).

If you need someone to talk to, contact:

  • Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24 hours) or their crisis support online chat or
  • Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36 (24 hours) or their webchat