Introduction
The hospitality industry is all about delivering exceptional customer experiences โ but keeping up often means major investments in kitchen equipment, venue upgrades, or staff expansion. Many small hospitality businesses, however, struggle to provide full tax returns when seeking finance.
Thatโs where low doc loans help, providing flexible funding with alternative documentation.
Whoโs Eligible?
Hospitality and catering businesses that typically qualify include:
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โ Restaurants, cafes, catering companies, food trucks, and event venues with an active ABN (6โ12+ months)
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โ Businesses using the loan at least 50% for commercial operations
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โ Applicants providing alternative income proof (bank statements, BAS, accountantโs letter)
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โ Borrowers with a deposit (usually 10โ30%)
What Can You Finance?
Low doc loans help hospitality businesses with:
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Purchasing Equipment โ Commercial ovens, refrigeration, coffee machines, or catering gear.
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Upgrading Venues โ Renovations, fit-outs, or seating expansions.
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Expanding Operations โ Open new locations or add food trucks or pop-up sites.
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Marketing and Branding โ Boost local advertising, social media, or menu design.
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Bridging Cash Flow โ Cover supplier payments, staff wages, or seasonal fluctuations.
What Documents Should You Provide?
Even without formal tax returns, prepare:
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โ 12 months of business bank statements
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โ BAS lodgements or sales summaries
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โ Quotes or purchase orders for equipment or renovations
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โ (Optional) Accountantโs letter confirming turnover or income
Case Example
Flavours Catering Co. needed $90,000 to expand its kitchen and add new catering vehicles for large-scale events. With 18 months of ABN activity, strong bank statements, and a 25% deposit, they secured a low doc loan โ doubling their event capacity and increasing bookings.
Tips for Hospitality Loan Applicants
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โ Keep sales records, bookings, and supplier contracts organised.
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โ Highlight how new investments will increase customer volume or revenue.
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โ Work with brokers familiar with hospitality industry lending.
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โ Maintain all food safety certifications, licenses, and health compliance.
Final Call to Action
Ready to expand your hospitality or catering business?
๐ Check your eligibility today โ no credit score impact
Visit our Business Lending Hub for expert advice.
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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.