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    Our team monitors lender policy updates daily so you don't waste time applying where you'll be declined.

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    Because we work with a wide panel of lenders, we know who is currently approving applications like yours.

  • Tailored to Your Situation

    Every customer is different. We match you with the lender most likely to approve your application today.

Can You Get a Car Loan If You Have a Short Employment History?

Short answer: Most Australian lenders prefer 3–6 months in your current job before approving a car loan. But you can still be approved sooner — even if you’ve just started a new role, you’re on probation, or you work casual — if you can show stable income and affordability.

Below is exactly how lenders look at short employment history, what documents help, and the fastest ways to improve your odds.

Minimum employment requirements (what lenders look for)

  • Time in current job: 3–6 months preferred; some lenders consider less with strong supporting evidence.
  • Overall stability: continuous work in the same industry over the last 1–2 years is a positive signal.
  • Income consistency: recent payslips and bank statements showing regular deposits.
  • Credit behaviour & DTI: on-time payments and a manageable debt-to-income ratio (< ~40%) help offset short tenure.

New job, probation or casual work — can you still get approved?

  • Just started / probation: many lenders will consider applications with your contract + first payslip if the role looks ongoing.
  • Casual workers: approval is possible if your deposits are regular and hours are steady across recent months.
  • Role/industry change: moving within the same industry (e.g., retail → retail) is viewed more favourably than a complete pivot.

How to improve approval odds with short employment history

  1. Show clear affordability: 3 months of bank statements + recent payslips.
  2. Consider a smaller loan / cheaper car: lowers repayments and risk.
  3. Add a deposit or trade-in: reduces the amount borrowed.
  4. Apply with a co-borrower/guarantor: strengthens the application.
  5. Use a broker: they know which lenders are flexible on short tenure and probation.

Documents lenders may ask for

  • Photo ID and driver licence
  • Employment contract or offer letter
  • Recent payslips (usually 2–4) and bank statements (typically 3 months)
  • Proof of address and any existing loan statements

Next step: Check your car loan eligibility — quick pre-check in under a minute.

Car loans with short employment history: FAQs

  • How long do you need to be employed to get a car loan?
    Most lenders prefer 3–6 months of continuous employment; some approve sooner with strong supporting evidence.
  • Can I get a car loan with a short employment history?
    Yes — if you can show stable income, reasonable expenses and good credit behaviour.
  • Can I get finance while on probation?
    Often yes. Provide your contract/offer letter and first payslip; ongoing roles are viewed more favourably.
  • Do casual workers qualify?
    They can. Consistent hours and regular deposits across recent months are key.
  • Do car finance companies verify employment?
    Usually yes — via employer calls and/or document checks like payslips, contracts and bank statements.
  • What improves my chances quickly?
    A deposit or trade-in, smaller loan amount, lower DTI, and (if needed) a co-borrower/guarantor.

Need help? A specialist broker can match you with lenders comfortable with probation, new jobs and casual income.

 

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.

What’s the minimum income to qualify for car finance?

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.

Can I use my car for both work and personal use?

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.

Do defence personnel get special car loan rates?

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.