Can You Actually Finance a Grader in Australia?
Yes — graders are financeable assets under most Australian equipment finance lenders. Whether it’s a compact grader for smaller job sites or a heavy-duty unit used on major infrastructure projects, most lenders categorise graders as core “yellow goods” under the construction and earthmoving umbrella. This means there are well-established loan products available, even if your business is relatively new or doesn't have full financials.
How Much Does a Grader Cost to Finance?
Graders typically cost between $120,000 and $400,000, depending on size, brand, and features. Because of the higher value of these machines, lenders will usually require more documentation for loan applications exceeding $250,000. However, if your loan amount is under that threshold — and your business has a clean credit profile — you may still qualify under a low doc equipment loan structure.
Even if you're just starting out or recently changed ABNs, there may be a pathway forward.
What Lenders Look For
Lenders tend to assess graders based on:
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The resale value of the asset (strong for well-known brands like Caterpillar or Komatsu)
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The experience of the borrower in the construction industry
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The structure of the loan (chattel mortgage vs. rental vs. lease)
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The age and condition of the grader (for used units)
If you're applying as a small construction company, they’ll also consider whether you're GST registered and the length of time your ABN has been active. That said, some lenders do accept applications from non-GST businesses, especially when the loan amount is lower.
What If You’re a New Business or Don't Have Full Financials?
Don’t panic — there are still solutions. Some of our lending partners specialise in low doc and ABN-only finance, especially for earthmoving machinery. These loans are designed for businesses who may not have completed tax returns, but still need essential equipment to grow their operation.
As long as your business has a valid ABN and you're using the grader for commercial purposes, there's likely a lender who will consider the deal.
Next Steps: Check Your Eligibility in Minutes
If you're unsure whether your grader purchase will qualify, it’s easy to find out. No credit score impact — just answer a few quick questions:
👉 Check your eligibility in minutes
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For deeper details or to compare grader finance with other machinery loans, check out these helpful resources:
DISCLAIMER
The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.
