If you work in the public sector or on rolling contracts in a corporate role, there might be times where you're between contracts — but still considered employed. This is common for government contractors, consultants, or fixed-term staff.
But what happens when you're in this “in-between” period and want to apply for car finance?
Good news: You can still get approved, but there are a few things to consider.
✅ What Does “Between Contracts” Actually Mean?
Being between contracts means your previous contract has ended, and:
- You’re waiting on the next contract to begin
- You have verbal or written confirmation of renewal
- You’ve been working on the same recurring terms for months or years
Lenders won’t always treat this the same as continuous PAYG employment, but many will consider your overall work history and future income certainty.
📊 How Lenders View “In-Between” Employment
| Contract Scenario | Lender Perspective | Approval Likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| Ongoing government contracts (12+ months) | Seen as reliable and renewable | High |
| Just finished a contract, renewal pending | Requires explanation and documentation | Moderate |
| Gaps with no renewal confirmed | Considered high risk | Low |
| Multiple renewals with same employer | Viewed as stable, even if contract-based | High |
📌 Public sector contractors with consistent history are viewed much more favourably than casual workers or first-time contractors.
💡 How to Strengthen Your Application
Even if you’re between contracts, you can improve your approval odds by providing:
- ✅ Past contract agreements (to show history and consistency)
- ✅ Letter or email from employer confirming renewal is in progress
- ✅ Recent bank statements showing regular income
- ✅ Strong credit score and minimal other debts
- ✅ Work history in the same department or industry
A good broker can package this info and present your case in a way that shows employment continuity, not instability.
🧾 Should You Wait or Apply Now?
It depends on your documentation and risk profile:
- ✅ If your contract renewal is already confirmed, you can apply now
- ❌ If there’s no guarantee of the next contract, you may want to wait
- ✅ If you have years of consistent renewals with the same employer, you’re still in a strong position
You can also request pre-approval, so you’re ready to move quickly once your next contract is signed.
🔗 Need Help While Between Contracts?
Our brokers work with public sector and corporate professionals on rolling or fixed contracts — and understand that employment doesn’t always look traditional.
👉 Explore government & corporate employee car finance options here
🚀 Final Thoughts
If you're between contracts but have a strong employment history and confirmation of ongoing work, you can still access great car finance deals.
It’s all about how you present the full picture — and working with the right broker makes all the difference.
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.
