👩👧👦 Renting and Parenting Solo? You’re Not Alone.
Life as a single parent is full-on — especially when you're managing:
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Rent
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School runs
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Groceries
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And a car that’s either unreliable or non-existent
Good news: you can still get approved for car finance, even if you’re renting and living on one income or partial Centrelink support.
✅ What Lenders Consider for Single Parents
Lenders will look at your:
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Primary income (PAYG, part-time, ABN, etc.)
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Any child support or Centrelink payments
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Living expenses, especially rent
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Number of dependent children
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Your credit history and repayment behaviour
You don’t need to own a home or earn 6 figures — just show you can comfortably afford repayments.
👉 Check your eligibility here — no credit impact
🧠 Tips for Single Parents Applying for Car Finance
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Keep your loan size realistic — choose a car that suits your budget and family needs
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Submit bank statements showing stable rent and income
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Declare all income — including Family Tax Benefit or parenting payments
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Don’t apply with multiple lenders — it can damage your credit score
💡 Can Centrelink Count Toward Income?
Yes — some Centrelink payments are accepted by car finance lenders, including:
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Family Tax Benefit A & B
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Parenting Payment
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Carer Allowance (in some cases)
But these usually need to be supplemented with work income (even part-time or ABN-based).
👉 Low Rate Car Loans for Everyday Australians
👩🔧 What If You’re Self-Employed or Freelancing?
Single parents working for themselves may be eligible for small business car loans, especially if you:
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Have an active ABN
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Can show income via invoices or bank statements
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Don’t have traditional payslips
Helpful:
👉 Can I Get a Car Loan Without Bank Statements?
🔄 Moved House or Changed Jobs Recently?
That’s common for single parents — and not a dealbreaker.
👉 Car Loans for Aussies Who’ve Just Changed Jobs or Address
🚀 Final Thought
Being a single parent and renter doesn’t mean you’re locked out of car finance. With the right documents, stable income, and sensible expectations, you can get approved and keep life moving.
👉 Start your application today
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.
