Industry guide
Business finance for tradies
Tradies and contractors need finance that lands before the job and is repaid as progress claims and invoices clear. Utes, tools and cash-flow gaps between jobs are the usual triggers.
The cash-flow pattern we plan around
A builder or subcontractor may wait 30–60 days for a progress claim while paying materials and wages weekly.
What tradies typically fund
- Ute or van
- Tools and equipment
- Cash flow between progress claims
- ATO and super catch-ups
Documents lenders usually ask tradies for
- ABN and licence
- 6 months of bank statements
- Supplier quote for any asset
Finance options for tradies
Chattel mortgage for tradies
For tradies a chattel mortgage is the default structure for a new or used ute: you own it from day one, claim the GST upfront if registered, and a balloon keeps the monthly repayment in line with what the vehicle earns..
Equipment loan for tradies
An equipment loan is a secured business loan used to buy machinery, vehicles or technology, with the equipment itself as security and fixed repayments over 1 to 7 years. It covers new and used assets from dealers or private sellers.
Unsecured business loan for tradies
Tradies often use an unsecured loan to bridge the gap between paying for materials and a progress claim clearing. Weekly repayments matched to invoice cycles work better than a large monthly debit..
Low-doc business loan for tradies
A low-doc business loan is finance assessed on bank statements, ABN history and credit record rather than full financial statements and tax returns. Low-doc does not mean no documents or automatic approval.
Business line of credit for tradies
A line of credit suits contractors with several jobs running: draw for materials on one job, repay when another pays, and keep the limit ready for the next..
Key terms
Business finance for tradies
Business finance for tradies covers vehicle and equipment loans plus short-term working-capital products sized to irregular, invoice-driven income.
Questions from tradies
Are low-doc options available?
Yes, some lenders offer low-doc pathways. Low-doc does not mean no documents or automatic approval. The information required depends on your business, the amount and the lender. Your broker will explain what is needed.
What documents will you need?
We start with a conversation about your business. To assess your options, lenders commonly need identification and recent business bank statements. Depending on the loan, they may also request BAS, financials or statements for existing debts. Your broker gives you a clear list for your situation.