
Asset finance lets Australian businesses purchase equipment, vehicles, or machinery using the asset itself as security. In 2025, rates typically range from 6-12% p.a. depending on business profile and asset type, with loan amounts from $5,000 to $5M+ over terms commonly between 1-7 years. Streamlined comparison platforms can provide fast online loan matching and pre-approvals, with settlements possible within days for straightforward applications. Most traditional lenders require minimum 12 months trading history, though specialist lenders may consider newer businesses. Tax benefits include GST claims, interest deductions, and depreciation.
Table of Contents
đź“‘ Navigation Guide
- â–¸ What Is Asset Finance
- â–¸ How Asset Finance Works in Australia
- â–¸ Asset Finance Rates & Costs in 2025
- â–¸ Types of Asset Finance
- â–¸ Tax Benefits & Deductions
- â–¸ Qualification Guidelines
- â–¸ Traditional vs Streamlined Process
- â–¸ Asset Finance vs Alternatives
- â–¸ Choosing the Right Solution
- â–¸ Common Questions
- â–¸ Get Asset Finance for Your Business
You need a $180,000 excavator but you don’t want to drain your working capital. Or perhaps your delivery fleet needs upgrading, but you’d rather preserve cash reserves for operational expenses. Asset finance can help, but understanding how it works, what it actually costs, and how to qualify makes all the difference.
Australian businesses invested $82.34 billion in machinery and equipment in the year to March 2025, with small businesses alone borrowing over $20 billion for equipment purchases. The asset finance market has evolved - where traditional bank applications once involved lengthy paperwork and extended approval times, modern streamlined platforms now offer fast online comparison and efficient processing.
What Is Asset Finance
Asset finance is a business funding method that allows you to purchase equipment, vehicles, or machinery by using the asset itself as security for the loan. Rather than paying the full purchase price upfront, you spread the cost over the asset’s working life through regular repayments, preserving your working capital for day-to-day operations.
The fundamental principle is straightforward: the lender provides funds to purchase the asset, and that asset serves as collateral. This security reduces the lender’s risk, which typically translates to more competitive rates than unsecured business loans.
Key characteristics of asset finance:
Secured lending: The asset you purchase acts as security, meaning the lender can repossess it if you default on repayments. The lender registers their interest on the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) until the loan is fully repaid.
Business use requirement: Assets must be used for business purposes at least 51% of the time to qualify for most asset finance products and associated tax benefits.
Flexible structures: Different finance types (chattel mortgage, equipment loan, finance lease) offer varying ownership arrangements and tax treatments to suit different business needs.
Tax advantages: Depending on the finance structure, businesses may be able to claim GST credits, interest deductions, and depreciation, potentially reducing the effective cost of asset acquisition.
How Asset Finance Works in Australia
The Australian asset finance process varies depending on the lender and your business circumstances, but modern comparison platforms have streamlined many aspects of the traditional application process.
The Basic Process
Identify your business need: Determine what equipment, vehicle, or machinery your business requires. Obtain quotes from suppliers, including full specifications and pricing.
Choose your finance structure: Decide whether you need a chattel mortgage (own from day one), equipment loan (similar ownership), or finance lease (rent-to-own arrangement). Your accountant can advise on the most tax-effective structure for your situation.
Compare your options online: Use a streamlined comparison platform to see personalised loan options from multiple lenders. Modern platforms can match you with suitable lenders quickly based on your business profile.
Progress with your chosen option: Once you’ve compared options and selected your preferred approach, proceed with a full application. The speed of approval depends on factors including your business age, documentation readiness, and the lender you choose.
Settlement: Upon approval, the lender transfers funds directly to your supplier. You take possession of the asset and begin repayments according to your agreed terms.
Security Registration
When you finance an asset, the lender registers a security interest on the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR). This public register protects the lender’s interest in the asset until you’ve made your final repayment. Upon completing all payments, the lender removes the registration and you own the asset outright with no encumbrances.
Ownership Models
Immediate ownership (Chattel Mortgage, Equipment Loan): You own the asset from day one. It appears as both an asset and a liability on your business balance sheet. You’re responsible for maintenance, insurance, and registration.
Lender ownership (Finance Lease): The lender owns the asset during the lease term. At the end, you can purchase it for a predetermined residual value, return it, or upgrade to newer equipment.
Asset Finance Rates & Costs in 2025
Understanding the true cost of asset finance requires looking beyond the advertised interest rate to include all fees, charges, and the total amount repayable.
Interest Rates by Borrower Profile
Current Australian asset finance rates vary significantly based on your business strength and the asset type. These are general guidelines only:
Note: These rates are indicative examples only. Actual rates depend on individual circumstances, lender assessment, and current market conditions.
Prime borrowers - businesses operating 2+ years with strong financials, good credit scores, and purchasing standard commercial assets - may access the lower end of rate ranges.
Standard borrowers with 1-2 years trading history and acceptable financials typically see mid-range rates, still often better than unsecured business loans.
Other scenarios, including newer businesses, those with credit challenges, or purchasing specialised equipment, may see higher rates but specialist lenders may still have options available.
Rate Variations by Asset Type
Asset Type | Indicative Rate | Typical LVR | Common Finance Type |
---|---|---|---|
Commercial vehicles | 7-10% p.a. | Up to 100% | Chattel mortgage |
Construction equipment | 8-11% p.a. | Up to 90% | Equipment loan |
IT equipment | 9-12% p.a. | Up to 80% | Finance lease |
Manufacturing machinery | 7-10% p.a. | Up to 90% | Asset loan |
Medical/dental equipment | 8-11% p.a. | 80-90% | Equipment loan |
Specialised machinery | 10-15% p.a. | 70-80% | Hire purchase |
Rates and LVR (Loan to Value Ratio) examples shown for illustration purposes only.
Lenders may charge different rates for heavy machinery and construction equipment, specialised or niche equipment, older assets (typically 10+ years), and assets with limited resale market.
Fees and Charges
Beyond interest rates, asset finance may include various fees that impact your total cost:
đź’° Establishment Fee
Commonly $300-$995, paid upfront when your loan settles. Some lenders may waive this for larger loan amounts.
đź“… Monthly Account Fee
Often $10-$25 per month for loan administration.
📊 Valuation Fee
$100-$500 for assets requiring independent valuation, particularly larger equipment purchases.
📝 PPSR Registration Fee
Usually $6-$8 for registering the lender's security interest.
⚠️ Early Termination Fee
Typically calculated as remaining unpaid interest if you pay out the loan early. This can be substantial on fixed-rate agreements.
⏰ Late Payment Fee
Commonly $25-$50 per occurrence if you miss a payment.
Fees vary by lender and are examples only.
Cost Example
Scenario: Brisbane transport company financing a $85,000 delivery truck
Finance Structure
- Purchase price: $85,000 (including GST)
- Deposit: $0 (100% finance scenario)
- Amount financed: $85,000
- Interest rate: 8.75% p.a. (example rate)
- Term: 5 years (60 months)
- Establishment fee: $595 (example)
- Monthly account fee: $15 (example)
Indicative Monthly Repayment
Principal + interest payment: ~$1,760
Monthly account fee: $15
Total monthly payment: ~$1,775
Indicative Total Cost Over 5 Years
- Total repayments: ~$105,600
- Plus establishment fee: $595
- Total cost: ~$106,195
- Total interest paid: ~$21,195
- Potential effective cost after tax benefits: Lower (subject to individual tax circumstances)
⚠️ This example is for illustration purposes only. Actual figures depend on lender terms, your individual circumstances, and prevailing market conditions. Consult your accountant regarding tax implications.
Types of Asset Finance
Australian businesses have several asset finance structures available, each with distinct ownership arrangements, tax treatments, and suitability for different situations.
Chattel Mortgage
A popular asset finance option for Australian businesses, particularly for vehicle purchases. You own the asset from day one, and the lender holds a mortgage over it as security.
How it works: Lender provides funds to purchase the asset, you take immediate ownership, lender registers security on PPSR, you make fixed monthly repayments (principal + interest), and upon final payment, security is removed.
Key features: High LVR often available (sometimes no deposit required), fixed interest rates for budgeting certainty, optional balloon payment to reduce monthly costs, and terms typically 1-5 years for vehicles, up to 7 years for heavy equipment.
Potential tax benefits: May be able to claim GST credit on purchase price (subject to limitations for passenger vehicles), interest payments may be tax deductible, may be able to claim depreciation on asset value, and instant asset write-off may be available for eligible assets under $20,000.
Tax benefits depend on individual circumstances. Seek independent advice from your accountant.
Best for: Businesses wanting immediate ownership and potential tax benefits. Particularly suitable for commercial vehicles, construction equipment, and machinery with long working lives.
Equipment Loan
Similar to a chattel mortgage but typically used for machinery and equipment rather than vehicles. Functionally almost identical in structure and benefits.
How it works: Secured loan using purchased equipment as collateral, immediate ownership upon purchase, fixed repayments over asset’s useful life, and security interest registered on PPSR.
Key features: Loan amounts from $5,000 to $5M+, terms matched to equipment lifespan (commonly 1-7 years), fixed or variable rate options may be available, and balloon payment options.
Tax treatment: Similar potential benefits to chattel mortgage - consult your accountant regarding GST, interest deductions, and depreciation for your specific situation.
Best for: Manufacturing equipment, agricultural machinery, construction plant, hospitality equipment, medical devices.
Finance Lease
The lender purchases the asset and leases it to your business. You don’t own the asset during the lease term but may have the option to purchase it at the end for a predetermined residual value.
How it works: Lender buys the asset, you lease it for agreed term, make regular lease payments, and at term end may purchase for residual, return it, or upgrade.
Key features: GST may be included in lease payments, fixed lease payments, off-balance-sheet financing (doesn’t appear as liability), and residual value predetermined at outset.
Potential tax benefits: Lease payments may be fully tax deductible, cannot claim depreciation (lender owns asset), and GST treatment differs from chattel mortgage.
Seek advice from your accountant regarding the tax treatment for your circumstances.
Best for: Businesses wanting off-balance-sheet financing, frequently upgrading equipment, or managing cash flow with predictable costs. Common for IT equipment, vehicles in high-turnover industries, and assets that rapidly depreciate or become obsolete.
Hire Purchase
Rent-to-own arrangement where you hire the asset and gain ownership after the final payment. Less common than chattel mortgages but still used for specific situations.
How it works: Lender purchases asset, you hire it and make regular payments, ownership transfers afterfinal payment, and during hire period, lender technically owns asset.
Key features: No large upfront payment typically required, fixed hire charges, ownership transfers automatically at end, and often structured without balloon payment.
Tax treatment: May be able to claim hire payments (interest component) and depreciation for business use percentage. Consult your accountant.
Best for: Businesses that want eventual ownership but prefer the hire structure.
Operating Lease
True lease arrangement where you rent the asset with no obligation to purchase. The lender bears the risk of asset depreciation.
Best for: Short-term equipment needs, trial periods for new equipment, or when you want to avoid ownership responsibilities.
Tax Benefits & Deductions
One of the potential advantages of asset finance is the tax benefits that may be available to Australian businesses. These benefits can potentially reduce the effective cost of acquiring assets.
Important: Tax benefits depend entirely on your individual business structure, circumstances, and how you use the asset. The information below is general in nature only. Always seek independent advice from a qualified tax professional or accountant before making any financing decisions.
GST Input Tax Credit
If your business is registered for GST, you may be able to claim an input tax credit on the GST component of your asset purchase, depending on your finance structure.
Chattel Mortgage/Equipment Loan: You may be able to claim the GST on your next Business Activity Statement (BAS) after purchase. For example, for a $110,000 asset (including $10,000 GST), you might receive a $10,000 credit, subject to eligibility.
Important limitation: For passenger vehicles, the GST credit is capped at 1/11th of the ATO’s car depreciation limit. For 2025-26, the car limit is $69,674, meaning maximum GST claim is $6,334 regardless of the vehicle’s actual price.
Finance Lease: GST may be included in lease payments rather than claimed upfront, but treatment varies.
Interest Deductions
The interest component of asset finance repayments may be tax deductible as a business expense, provided the asset is used for business purposes. Consult your accountant to understand your eligibility and the portion you can claim.
Depreciation Deductions
When you own the asset (chattel mortgage, equipment loan, hire purchase), you may be able to claim depreciation deductions based on the asset’s decline in value, subject to ATO rules.
Standard depreciation: Most business assets depreciate using either diminishing value or prime cost methods over their effective life as determined by ATO schedules.
Instant Asset Write-Off: For eligible businesses with turnover under $10 million, assets costing less than $20,000 may be immediately written off in the year of purchase, subject to meeting all ATO requirements and conditions.
All examples above are for illustration purposes only. Actual tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances, business structure, asset use, and current tax legislation. This information does not constitute tax advice.
Qualification Guidelines
Australian lenders assess asset finance applications based on several criteria. Understanding general lending guidelines can help you prepare. However, every application is assessed on its individual merit, and these are general guidelines only - not strict requirements that automatically preclude approval.
Important: If you’re unsure whether you qualify, we strongly advise you to speak with our specialist brokers. If anybody can get a deal over the line on something tricky, they can. There may be solutions available that you’re not aware of, even if your circumstances don’t fit traditional lending criteria. Our brokers specialise in finding left-of-centre solutions, and there’s no such thing as a silly question.
General Document Guidelines
Different lenders have different requirements, but commonly requested documents may include business bank statements (timeframe varies by lender), ABN/ACN and business registration, director identification, asset quote from supplier, and recent financial information (requirements vary significantly by lender).
Many modern lenders utilise technology to streamline applications and may not require extensive financial documentation, particularly for certain loan types and amounts. The specific requirements depend entirely on the lender, loan type, and your business circumstances.
Business Trading History
Traditional lending guidelines: Established businesses (2+ years) - Most traditional lenders prefer businesses operating 2+ years with filed tax returns. Developing businesses (1-2 years) - Many lenders consider businesses with 12-24 months trading history. Newer businesses - Some specialist lenders work with businesses under 12 months, assessing applications differently.
However: These are general guidelines only. Specialist lenders may have completely different criteria, and your specific circumstances matter more than fitting a particular timeframe. If you’re outside these guidelines, we encourage you to speak with our brokers - there may be options available.
Credit Score Considerations
Traditional approach: Many lenders review credit history and scores as part of their assessment.
Our approach: We encourage everyone to do a comparison or speak with a broker, regardless of their credit situation. If you’re unsure about your credit score, get in touch because we can help you find out what it is and whether it impacts your options. If you know you have bad credit or past credit issues, there may still be lenders willing to consider your circumstances.
Different lenders have different credit criteria. Some assess recent financial behaviour rather than focusing solely on older credit file information. With access to specialist lenders, there may be options available even with challenging credit circumstances.
If you’re worried about your credit: Do a comparison or speak with our brokers. The comparison process can help identify which lenders may be suitable for your situation, and our specialist brokers can guide you towards lenders more likely to consider your application favourably.
Financial Strength Indicators
Lenders typically assess whether your business can afford repayments based on revenue, expenses, and existing commitments. However, different lenders use different assessment methods, and some focus more on recent business performance and cash flow rather than traditional financial metrics.
Asset Considerations
Age and condition: New and near-new assets generally receive broader lender acceptance. Older assets (10+ years) may have fewer lender options but may still be financeable through specialist lenders.
Asset type: Standard commercial assets (vehicles, machinery, standard equipment) typically have more lender options. Specialised, niche, or imported equipment may require specialist lenders but can often still be financed.
Usage: Asset must be used for business purposes at least 51% of the time for most asset finance products and tax benefits.
Note on non-traditional business assets: Boats, caravans, or assets that typically aren’t considered business assets may be financed if genuinely used predominantly for business purposes (e.g., tourism operations, business transport). However, if there’s a high proportion of personal use, they would typically be considered under personal finance arrangements rather than business asset finance. If unsure, speak with our brokers who can clarify the best approach.
Traditional vs Streamlined Process
The asset finance process has evolved significantly, with modern platforms offering a much more efficient experience compared to traditional lending approaches.
Traditional Finance Process
The traditional approach to asset finance often involved lengthy paperwork with multiple forms, extensive documentation requirements, and physical signatures. Extended timelines meant applications taking days to weeks for initial assessment, with approvals stretching even longer. Limited visibility created unclear application status, waiting for phone calls, and uncertainty about progress. Single lender focus meant working with one lender at a time, starting over if declined. Complex navigation involved trying to understand different lender requirements, uncertain which lender suits your situation.
Streamlined Modern Approach
Modern platforms like Loan Phone leverage technology to create a more efficient experience through fast online comparison where you complete one comparison to see personalised loan options from multiple lenders quickly. Efficient matching uses technology to help identify lenders most suited to your business profile and asset type. Clear process provides transparent steps, digital document upload, and clear communication throughout. Multiple options let you see and compare options from across a wide lender panel without multiple applications. Specialist support available means experienced brokers are there whenever you need human guidance, particularly for complex scenarios or unique circumstances. Modern digital experience allows you to complete your comparison online with secure document upload and real-time updates, with no office visits required unless you prefer face-to-face service.
Faster timelines: Although each lender has different approval timeframes and your circumstances will vary, our streamlined system allows you to get approved on an apples-for-apples basis much quicker than any other broker or direct bank option.
The key difference is efficiency without sacrificing service quality. Technology handles the time-consuming matching and comparison work, while human expertise remains available for guidance, negotiation, and complex situations.
Asset Finance vs Alternatives
Understanding how asset finance compares to other funding options helps you choose the most appropriate solution for your business needs.
Asset Finance vs Unsecured Business Loan vs Cash Purchase
Rates and features are indicative examples only and vary by lender and individual circumstances.
Asset finance considerations: Preserves working capital for operational expenses, often lower rates than unsecured loans due to security, potential tax benefits (subject to individual circumstances), ownership structure flexibility, and specific to asset purchase.
When unsecured loan may make sense: You need funds for purposes beyond asset purchase, asset doesn’t qualify for secured lending, or you want flexibility in fund usage.
When cash purchase may be optimal: You have surplus cash not needed for operations, you want to avoid interest costs entirely, or you can negotiate significant discount for cash payment.
Choosing the Right Solution
Selecting the optimal asset finance approach depends on your business circumstances, tax position, and strategic objectives.
Decision Framework
Step 1: Determine your ownership preference
Want immediate ownership? Consider chattel mortgage or equipment loan. You gain full ownership from day one, potential maximum tax benefits (subject to your circumstances), asset appears on your balance sheet, and you handle maintenance and insurance.
Prefer flexibility without ownership obligations? Consider finance lease. Lender owns asset during lease term, off-balance-sheet financing, may have easier upgrade path at term end, and fixed, predictable lease payments.
Step 2: Assess your tax position with your accountant
Different finance structures have different tax implications. Your accountant can advise which structure may be most beneficial for your specific business circumstances and tax position.
Step 3: Consider cash flow requirements
Need lower monthly payments? Balloon payment strategy may help by setting larger end-of-term payment, reducing monthly commitment, but requires planning for balloon payment at term end.
Want to own asset quickly? Shorter term without balloon means higher monthly payments, building equity faster, and no large end-of-term payment to plan for.
Step 4: Evaluate asset type and usage
Standard commercial vehicle? Chattel mortgage is commonly used with high LVR often available, broad lender acceptance, and straightforward approval process typically.
Rapidly evolving technology? Finance lease may allow easier upgrades, avoiding obsolescence risk, upgrading to latest equipment at term end, and predictable costs throughout.
Heavy machinery with long life? Equipment loan over extended term matches repayment term to asset lifespan, spreads payments over 5-7 years, and retains ownership throughout.
Working with Finance Providers
Benefits of comparison platforms: Modern comparison platforms like Loan Phone offer fast online comparison across multiple lenders, see personalised options based on your profile, transparent comparison of terms and rates, access to both traditional and specialist lenders, and streamlined application process.
When specialist broker support adds value: Complex applications requiring human expertise, unique circumstances needing tailored solutions, negotiation for better terms, guidance through the process, and left-of-centre scenarios requiring creative solutions.
Loan Phone combines both: Fast online comparison powered by technology, with specialist brokers available whenever you need human guidance and expertise.
Common Questions
How quickly can asset finance be approved?
Approval timelines vary significantly depending on the lender, your business circumstances, and application complexity. Some lenders using technology-driven processes may provide fast responses for straightforward applications, while others may take longer.
Although each lender has different approval timeframes and your circumstances will vary, our streamlined system allows you to get approved on an apples-for-apples basis much quicker than any other broker or direct bank option.
With streamlined comparison platforms, you can see personalised loan options quickly online. From there, the time to full approval and settlement depends on factors including your documentation readiness, the lender you choose, and your specific circumstances. Some applications may progress rapidly, while others require more time.
If you need finance urgently, speak with our brokers who can guide you towards lenders known for efficient processing, assuming your application aligns with their criteria.
What’s the minimum business age for asset finance?
Requirements vary significantly by lender. Many traditional lenders prefer businesses operating 12+ months with filed tax returns. However, specialist lenders may consider newer businesses, sometimes with as little as 6 months of trading history, particularly if you have strong bank statements showing consistent revenue.
Important: These are general guidelines only. If your business is newer than these timeframes, we still encourage you to speak with our specialist brokers. Different lenders have different criteria, and there may be options available even if you don’t meet traditional lending guidelines.
Can I get 100% asset finance with no deposit?
It’s possible for some businesses and asset types. High LVR (100%) financing may be available for established businesses with strong financials purchasing standard commercial assets from authorised dealers.
However, requirements vary by lender, and many factors influence whether a deposit is required, including your business age and financial strength, the asset type and age, the lender’s specific criteria, and your overall credit profile.
Even when 100% finance is available, providing a deposit (10-20%) may sometimes secure better interest rates. The best approach is to do a comparison - you’ll quickly see what’s available for your specific situation.
What if I have bad credit?
We encourage you to do a comparison or get in touch to discuss your options, regardless of your credit history. While many lenders do assess credit history, different lenders have vastly different credit criteria.
Some lenders focus more on recent financial behaviour rather than historical credit file issues. Others specialise in working with borrowers who have had past credit challenges. With access to a wide panel including specialist lenders, there may be options available even with less-than-perfect credit.
If you have credit concerns: Do a comparison online - it helps identify suitable lenders. Speak with our specialist brokers who can guide you towards lenders more likely to consider your circumstances. Be upfront about your situation so we can match you appropriately. Remember: a past credit issue doesn’t necessarily mean current decline.
If we can’t help you secure finance right now, we’ll help you understand what steps you need to take to become finance-ready in the future.
What are the potential tax benefits of asset finance?
Tax benefits depend entirely on your individual circumstances, business structure, and how you use the asset. Potential benefits may include:
For ownership structures (Chattel Mortgage/Equipment Loan): GST input tax credits (subject to limitations), interest payment deductions (subject to business use), depreciation deductions (subject to ATO rules), and instant asset write-off for eligible small businesses and assets under $20,000.
For lease structures: Lease payment deductions (subject to business use) and different GST treatment.
Critical: This information is general only and does not constitute tax advice. The actual tax treatment depends on multiple factors including your business structure, asset use percentage, your tax position, and current tax legislation.
Always consult your accountant or tax advisor before making asset finance decisions to understand the specific tax implications for your business. They can advise which finance structure may be most tax-effective for your circumstances.
What assets can I finance?
Asset finance can cover virtually any business equipment, vehicle, or machinery that has commercial value and resale potential:
Vehicles: Cars, utes, vans (commercial use), trucks and semi-trailers, buses and coaches, forklifts and warehouse equipment, specialised commercial vehicles.
Construction & Earthmoving: Excavators, bulldozers, loaders, cranes and lifting equipment, compactors and pavers, concrete equipment.
Manufacturing & Industrial: Production machinery, packaging equipment, material handling systems, industrial tooling.
Agriculture: Tractors and harvesters, irrigation systems, farming machinery, storage facilities.
Medical & Dental: Diagnostic equipment, dental chairs and tools, practice fit-outs, laboratory equipment.
Hospitality & Retail: Commercial kitchen equipment, coffee machines, point-of-sale systems, refrigeration.
Technology: Servers and networking equipment, computer systems, security systems.
Other business equipment: Various industry-specific equipment and machinery.
Generally excluded: Personal-use items, assets used less than 51% for business.
How does a balloon payment work?
A balloon payment is a larger lump-sum payment due at the end of your loan term, which reduces your monthly repayments throughout the term. It’s an optional feature available on some chattel mortgages and equipment loans.
Example for illustration: $100,000 equipment loan over 5 years at 8.5% p.a. Without balloon: ~$2,055 monthly payment. With 30% balloon ($30,000): ~$1,595 monthly payment. Reduction: ~$460 per month.
At term end, you typically have options: Pay the balloon from business savings, refinance the balloon amount, sell the asset and use proceeds to pay balloon, or trade and refinance into new asset.
Considerations: ATO limits typically apply to maximum balloon percentages, plan ahead for handling the balloon payment, and ensure you have a strategy before agreeing to balloon structure.
Can I pay out asset finance early?
Generally yes, though early termination fees often apply on fixed-rate agreements. These fees compensate lenders for lost interest and administrative costs.
Fee structures vary significantly by lender. Some lenders allow additional repayments up to certain limits without penalty, while others charge fees on full payout. The specific terms depend on your loan contract.
Before paying out early: Request a payout figure in writing showing all fees, compare fee cost versus interest savings, check your contract terms, and consider if reinvesting funds elsewhere provides better return.
Finance leases may be more difficult and expensive to terminate early, as they’re typically structured as fixed-term contracts.
Do I need an ABN or specific business structure?
You need an Australian Business Number (ABN) to qualify for asset finance, as it’s designed exclusively for business asset purchases. The specific business structure affects application requirements but doesn’t typically prevent approval.
Structures that can access asset finance: Sole traders (individual with ABN), companies (Pty Ltd), partnerships, and trusts.
Each structure may have different documentation requirements and guarantee arrangements, but all can typically access asset finance. Your business structure primarily affects the application process rather than eligibility.
What if I’m unsure whether I qualify?
Speak with our specialist brokers. They work with a wide range of businesses and circumstances. Even if you don’t meet traditional lending guidelines, there may be specialist lenders who can help.
We specialise in finding left-of-centre solutions, and there’s no such thing as a silly question. The comparison process is designed to help identify which lenders may be suitable for your specific situation.
If we can’t secure finance for you immediately, we’ll help you understand what steps you need to take to become finance-ready, which areas of your application need strengthening, timeline for when you might qualify, and alternative approaches you could consider.
The worst outcome is that you learn exactly what you need to do to qualify in future. The best outcome is finding a solution you didn’t know existed.
Get Asset Finance for Your Business
Ready to explore asset finance options for your equipment, vehicles, or machinery?
Loan Phone combines streamlined online comparison with specialist broker expertise to help Australian businesses access competitive asset finance solutions.
Why Choose Loan Phone
Fast Online Comparison: See personalised loan options from multiple lenders quickly. Our technology-driven platform matches you with suitable lenders based on your business profile and asset type.
Access to 100+ Lenders: Compare options across Australia’s largest lender panel - major banks, specialist asset finance providers, and alternative lenders. One comparison reaches them all.
Efficient Processing: Streamlined application process with digital document upload and clear communication. Settlement timelines vary by lender and circumstances, but our efficient process helps move things along as quickly as possible.
Specialist Broker Support: Experienced finance specialists available whenever you need human guidance - for complex scenarios, unique circumstances, negotiation, or simply questions about your options.
Comprehensive Comparison: See rates, terms, and features from multiple lenders in one place. Technology eliminates bias and helps identify optimal matches for your situation.
Modern Digital Experience: Complete your comparison online with secure document upload and real-time updates. No office visits required unless you prefer face-to-face service.
What You Can Finance
âś“ Commercial vehicles and trucks
âś“ Construction equipment and machinery
âś“ Manufacturing and production equipment
âś“ Agricultural machinery
âś“ Medical and dental equipment
âś“ Hospitality and retail equipment
âś“ IT and technology systems
âś“ Office equipment and fit-outs
âś“ Specialised business assets
Simple Comparison Process
Complete Quick Online Form: Provide basic business details, asset information, and estimated financing amount. Takes just minutes to complete.
See Your Personalised Options: View loan options matched to your profile from across our lender panel. Compare rates, terms, and features.
Choose Your Preferred Option: Select the option that best suits your needs, or speak with a broker for guidance on your choices.
Progress Your Application: Proceed with full application for your chosen lender. Upload documents through our secure digital platform.
Move to Settlement: Work through the approval process with your chosen lender. Settlement timelines vary based on lender, complexity, and individual circumstances.
Helpful Information to Have Ready
While specific requirements vary by lender, having these items ready can help streamline your comparison:
- Recent business bank statements
- ABN and business registration details
- Quote for equipment/vehicle you’re purchasing
- Director identification (driver’s license)
- General business information
Don’t worry if you don’t have everything immediately - you can start your comparison and gather documents as needed through the process.
Compare Your Asset Finance Options
Get personalised loan options with no obligation. See what’s available for your business and asset type from Australia’s largest lender panel.
Compare Options Now - loanphone.com.au
Comparing options doesn’t impact your credit score and involves no commitment.
Speak with Asset Finance Specialists
Prefer to discuss your options with an expert first? Our Australian-based finance specialists understand business lending and can guide you through the process.
Phone: Available Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM AEST
Email: loans@loanphone.com.au
Loan Phone Fast Facts
- Fast online comparison to see personalised options quickly
- Access to 100+ lenders including major banks and specialists
- Efficient digital process with streamlined document handling
- $5K to $5M+ financing available depending on asset and circumstances
- 6-12% typical rate range based on business profile and asset type (indicative only)
- No obligation - compare your options without commitment
For more information about our equipment loan process, eligibility, and requirements, Visit loanphone.com.au
Related Resources
Further Reading:
- Chattel Mortgage Guide: Tax Benefits & How to Apply
- Equipment Finance Australia: Complete Guide
- Commercial Vehicle Finance Options
- Business Loan Options for Self-Employed
- Construction Equipment Finance Guide
Helpful Tools:
- Asset Finance Calculator
- Loan Comparison Tool
- Business Finance Options Explorer
Final Thoughts
Asset finance remains a tax-effective and cash-flow-friendly option for many Australian businesses acquiring essential equipment, vehicles, and machinery. With indicative rates ranging from 6-12% p.a. in 2025, and potential tax benefits including GST credits, interest deductions, and depreciation claims (subject to individual circumstances), asset finance can deliver genuine value beyond simple funding.
The key to successful asset finance is preparation: understand your options, compare across multiple lenders, and structure the finance to align with your business’s cash flow and tax position. Modern comparison platforms have streamlined the process significantly, providing fast visibility of options that once required weeks of individual lender applications.
Whether you’re an established business with strong financials or a developing operation needing specialist lending support, there are asset finance solutions available across a wide range of Australian business profiles. The combination of efficient technology for speed and specialist broker expertise for complex scenarios ensures you can access competitive financing while receiving personalised guidance when needed.
Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, speak with our specialist brokers - they excel at finding solutions for unique circumstances. Even if we can’t secure finance immediately, we’ll provide clear guidance on what steps you need to take to become finance-ready.
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Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about asset finance in Australia as at October 2025. Interest rates, fees, terms, eligibility criteria, and outcomes vary by lender and individual circumstances. All examples are for illustration purposes only. Tax benefits depend on your specific business structure and circumstances - this information does not constitute tax or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals including your accountant before making financing decisions. All finance applications are subject to lender credit assessment and approval. No guarantees are made regarding approval, rates, or timeframes.
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