BUSINESS LENDING HUB

Can I Get Finance for a Skid Steer Loader in Australia?

Can You Finance a Skid Steer Loader in Australia?

Yes — skid steer loaders are one of the most commonly financed earthmoving machines. Whether you're running a small landscaping crew, contracting to builders, or managing site works, you don’t have to pay the full amount upfront.

Many lenders in Australia offer fast finance for both new and used skid steers, and in many cases, approvals can be done without full tax returns.

Typical Cost of a Skid Steer Loader

  • Mini models (25–35hp): $25,000 – $45,000

  • Mid-range models (40–60hp): $45,000 – $85,000

  • Large frame units (70hp+): $85,000 – $150,000

  • Used skid steers: From $20,000 depending on hours and condition

  • Tracked versions or Bobcat-style: Usually $70,000 – $130,000

Brands like Bobcat, Caterpillar, Kubota, Case, and ASV dominate the Australian market.

Can You Get Finance with Just an ABN?

Yes — if you have an active ABN and can show basic income activity (like business bank statements), you may qualify for ABN-only finance on most skid steer loaders.

Many lenders offer approvals up to $150,000 without full financials — especially if:

  • You’ve been operating for at least 12 months

  • The asset is being purchased through a registered dealer

  • You have a clean repayment history

Is Low Doc Equipment Finance Available?

Yes. Skid steer loaders are generally eligible for low doc equipment loans. This means you might only need:

  • Your ABN details

  • 3–6 months of business bank statements

  • A supplier invoice or quote

This is perfect for tradies, landscapers, and excavation businesses that don’t have formal tax returns ready yet.

Can You Finance a Used Skid Steer?

Yes — both used dealer stock and private sales can be financed.

  • Used skid steers from reputable dealers often qualify for full-term finance.

  • Private sales may need additional checks like asset inspection, photos, or serial numbers.

  • Some lenders also allow finance on auction-bought units if paperwork is available.

Do You Need to Be GST Registered?

Not always. If your total finance amount is under $75,000, you may be approved without GST registration, depending on the lender and your ABN history.

If the skid steer loader you're buying is more than $100,000 in value, GST registration is typically required.

Ready to Check If You Qualify?

You can check your eligibility online in seconds — no pressure, no obligations, and no hit to your credit file.

👉 Check your eligibility here

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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.

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All Your Questions Answered

What is a car loan and how does it work?

A car loan is a finance product where a lender provides funds for you to purchase a vehicle, which you repay over time with interest.

What’s the difference between secured and unsecured car loans?

Secured loans use the car as collateral, often leading to lower interest rates. Unsecured loans don’t, but usually have higher rates.

What loan terms are available for car finance?

Most car loans offer terms from 3 to 7 years. Find out what term suits you best.

How is interest calculated on a car loan?

Interest is based on the loan amount, term, and rate. Fixed-rate loans have predictable repayments, while variable rates can change.

Can I get a car loan for a private sale?

Yes, many lenders accept private sellers. You’ll need to provide extra documents.

Do government employees get lower interest rates on car loans?

Yes — many lenders offer better rates due to your stable income. Explore finance options for government employees.

Can I apply for a car loan while on probation?

Yes. Many workers are approved during probation.

What credit score do I need as a government employee?

A score of 650+ is ideal, but lower scores may still be considered.

Are corporate professionals eligible for low-rate finance?

Yes, especially if you're full-time with strong income.

Can I get car finance with a novated lease?

Yes, many government departments support novated leasing.

Can I get a car loan with no credit history?

Yes, it's still possible to get a car loan with no credit history.

What if I’ve been declined elsewhere?

A broker can help restructure your application for better results.

How do I check my credit score?

Use Equifax, Experian, or Illion for a free check.

Can I get finance if I have a current personal loan?

Yes, if your income supports both loans. A broker will assess your capacity.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typically: ID, payslips, and bank statements.

Can casual workers get car loans?

Yes, if you’ve worked consistently for 6+ months.

Can I apply if I’m self-employed with an ABN?

Yes. Consider a low-doc loan.

Can Centrelink be used as income?

Yes, when paired with PAYG income.

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Most lenders prefer $30,000+ annually, but this varies.

Can I apply on a fixed-term contract?

Yes, especially if it’s government-backed.

Can I finance a used car?

Yes, most lenders allow used cars under 10 years old.

Can I get a loan for an SUV or family car?

Absolutely

Can I finance a caravan or motorbike?

Yes

Can I finance an EV or hybrid car?

Yes. You may even qualify for green car loan discounts.

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Yes you can.

What is a balloon payment?

It’s a lump sum due at the end of the loan term.

Can I make extra repayments?

Yes, many lenders allow this without penalty.

Can I pay off the loan early?

Yes — ask if there’s an early payout fee.

Is there a deposit required?

Not always.

What loan terms are available?

1 to 7 years is standard.

How long does approval take?

24–48 hours in most cases

Can I apply online?

Yes — most lenders and brokers accept online applications.

Is a broker better than going direct?

Often, yes. They can compare lenders for you.

Can I get pre-approved?

Yes — and it gives you better negotiating power at the dealership.

What happens after I apply?

Your documents are reviewed, and if approved, the lender issues funds to the seller.

Can I get a loan with a visa?

Yes, in some cases. see finance for visa holders here.

Do I need a driver’s licence to apply?

Yes, but learners may qualify with a co-applicant.

Can I apply with someone else?

Yes, joint applications are allowed.

Can I refinance my current car loan?

Yes — it can lower your repayments or get you a better rate.

Can I trade in my old car as a deposit?

Yes, many lenders accept trade-ins toward the deposit.

Can nurses get car finance?

Yes — see nurse-specific finance tips.

Can teachers apply while on contract?

Yes. Read how to get approved.

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Yes, in some cases. Your job security is a major advantage.

Can FIFO government workers apply?

Yes — consistency in income matters more than job location.

Can I apply if I’m on maternity leave?

Yes, especially if you’re returning to work. Here’s how.

Can I use car finance to buy interstate?

Yes — just make sure the seller provides all required documents.

Can I finance a car from an auction?

Yes, but only through select lenders. Ask your broker first.

Will applying hurt my credit score?

Only if you apply to multiple lenders directly. Brokers help protect your score.

Can I get a car loan if I’ve been bankrupt before?

Yes — see bad credit car loan options.

What if I want to upgrade my car before the loan ends?

You can sell the car, pay off the loan early, or refinance.