Compare business loans in Australia

Review rates from 90+ online options in seconds, and get funds in your account in 24 hours (once approved).

Swipe to see more loans
Promoted
Borrow up to $500,000 and receive the funds within 24 hours of approval. Loans under $200,000 do not require security. Use this loan for your business needs, like business expansion or purchasing equipment.
Product AUFBL Min. Loan Amount Max. Loan Amount Loan Term Upfront Fee Filter Values
Lumi logo
$5,000
$500,000
3 months to 5 years
2.5% establishment fee
Apply for up to $500,000 from Lumi and benefit from short loan terms, no early repayment fees and once approved receive your funds in just one business day.
Great Southern Bank logo
$10,000
$250,000
1 to 7 years
$595
Special Offer: Pay $0 establishment fee when you apply for a loan before 31st March 2025 and draw down the funds within 90 days.
Valiant Finance logo
$5,000
$20,000,000
3 months to 7 years
$0 application fee
A Business Lending Specialist from Valiant Finance can give you access to competitive business loans from over 80 lenders. Loans between $5,000 and $20 million are available. Request a call – your loan can be funded in 1 business day.
eBroker logo
$5,000
$5,000,000
1 month to 30 years
$0 application fee
Small business loans available between $5,000 and $5,000,000. Get access to 70+ non-bank lenders on this independent platform.
ScotPac logo
$10,000
$500,000
3 months to 3 years
$0 application fee
A business loan for any industry. Borrow between $10,000 and $500,000, with approved loans funded within 24 hours. Minimum monthly turnover of $10,000 and 1 year of trading history required.
Prospa logo
$5,000
$500,000
3 months to 3 years
3.5% origination fee
Small business loans are available from $5,000 - $500,000 on terms of up to 3 years. At least six months trading history and a monthly turnover from $5,000 is necessary.
Zool logo
$25,000
$2,000,000
6 months to 4 years
Apply for a loan from $25,000 to $2,000,000 Repayments are made in monthly instalments over a period of to 4 years.
More Info
loading

What is a business loan?

Business loans are lending products designed to help business owners fund business operations, purchase stock, pay staff, manage cash flow or expand.

The right business loan can keep your business afloat when you're dealing with seasonal cash flow or just short on cash. It could also help you seize on an opportunity and grow your business to new heights.

Unlike a personal loan, a business loan must be specifically for business or investment purposes. To get a loan approved the lender considers the performance and history of your business, plus your own credit history.

How do business loans work?

You can get a business loan from most Australian banks or from online business lenders.

The amount you can borrow, your interest rate and whether you need security all depend on your lender's requirements and your business's size, needs and financial position.

Things that will affect how your business loan works are:

  • Security. With a secured business loan you could offer a business asset or property as collateral. You can get a lower interest rate in return.
  • Eligibility. Many lenders require your business to have been operating for 1 to 2 years, with financial records for that time. Lenders examine cash flow projections, business activity statements and conduct credit checks on company directors.
  • Loan type. Some business loans provide you with a single lump sum, which you pay off over time like any loan. But there are business overdrafts that let you spend beyond what's in your bank account to cover shortfalls, or lines of credit that let you spend money flexibly.
  • Interest rate. You can get business loans with fixed or variable interest rates from most lenders. Secured business loans have the most competitive rates.

Which type of business loan is best for my business?

Choosing the right business loan depends on your business and what you're trying to achieve.

Business term loans

The most straightforward business loan, where you apply for a loan and receive the funds in a lump sum. You can get secured and unsecured business loans for flexible amounts, and can receive a variable or fixed interest . These loans are useful when you're trying to cover large expenses.

Example: Samantha needs a variable rate business loan

Samantha runs a catering business. She needs to borrow $60,000 to cover a kitchen expansion. Samantha needs a single lump sum. But she also wants the ability to repay the loan quickly. She expects her revenue to increase as a result of the expansion and wants to clear the debt sooner.

She opts for a business loan with a variable interest rate, as variable rates tend to come with no early repayment fees.

Business line of credit

A business line of credit gives you a pool of money that you can withdraw and pay off whenever you want. Once you're approved for a line of credit you can spend money flexibly, up to the credit limit amount. You only pay interest on the money you withdraw, not the overall limit you're approved for.

This is useful for businesses that have to cover multiple smaller expenses over time or have seasonal spikes and dips in revenue.

Example: Glen needs a line of credit

Glen runs a landscaping business with 5 employees. He's approaching a quiet few months for the business and wants to have money on hand to cover a few expenses he has been putting off.

On top of paying his employees, he wants to renovate his office and upgrade his equipment. He takes out a line of credit, and is able to get a quote for his upgrades and withdraw that exact amount each time.

When his cash runs low during this quiet season, he also withdraws money in order to meet payroll. When business picks up, he pays off his withdrawals and is able to reuse that credit the next year.

Business vehicle finance

Loans to cover the purchase of business vehicles including cars and trucks. These come with a range of options, such as leasing the vehicles or buying the vehicles outright. They can be used to buy individual vehicles or an entire fleet.

Equipment finance

Loans to cover the purchase of business equipment, such as computers, tools, coffee machines, or kitchen fit-outs. You can rent, lease or buy outright.

Invoice finance

Invoice financing lets you use outstanding invoices, which represent future payments, to get cash when you need it now. A cut of the outstanding invoice is paid to the lender in return for the upfront funds.

Business overdraft

If you have a business bank account you can get an approved overdraft limit to borrow beyond what's in the account. This is useful to cover brief cash flow shortfalls that are not predictable enough to require a line of credit.

Business credit cards

Business credit cards let you cover business expenses now and pay them off over time. Useful for sole traders, small businesses, or to fund the business needs of trusted staff.

Business loans for startups and small businesses

Startups and very small businesses might find it harder to get a business loan because they likely have fewer assets, less consistent cash flow or, in a startup's case, no established track record of business activity.

Startups

There are business loans that cater to start ups, but in general lenders only lend to startups who have been running for at least 6-12 months and meet certain revenue figures and financial crtieria.

Because new, unproven businesses are riskier customers these loans will have higher interest rates.

There are also business groups like Tech Ready Women who offer funding for startups and expansion.

Small businesses

Small businesses will find it easier to get a business loan approved if:

  • You have a good personal credit score.
  • You have a clear plan for how to use the funds.
  • Your business has been operating for several years and has detailed financial records.
  • You can secure the loan against commercial or personal property.

How to compare business loans

Even when you've decided which type of business loan your business needs, there are still other things to consider before landing on the right loan for you.

Interest rates

Business loan interest rates will vary depending on your lender, your loan type, and your own (and your business's) financial position. You can choose between a variable rate or a fixed rate. Lenders can move their variable rates in line with the cash rate and you have more flexibility to make extra repayments. Fixed rates stay the same for the life of the loan, but you generally can't make extra repayments.

Fees

Factor in the cost of loan fees along with the interest payments to know the true cost of the loan.

The most common business loan fees include:

  • Establishment fee: Many lenders charge a one-off, upfront establishment or origination fee. This fee is often a percentage of the loan amount. A 3% establishment fee on a $300,000 business loan would cost you $9,000.
  • Monthly or annual account keeping fees: Some lenders charge a smaller ongoing fee to maintain the loan account.
  • Late fee: If you miss a loan repayment your lender may charge you a fee.
  • Extra repayment fee: Some loans, typically fixed rate loans, don't let you make extra repayments to the loan or charge a fee for doing so.

Security

If you have a commercial or residential property to offer as security you can get a loan with a lower interest rate.

Loan term

Longer loan terms suit larger loan amounts. Longer terms also mean smaller monthly repayments but more interest charged over time. Shorter terms increase your monthly repayments but you pay less interest.

Loan flexibility

Look for a flexible loan. If you can repay a loan early you can save money. Flexible business loans let you redraw extra repayments in an emergency.

Your business

Ask yourself what your business needs the loan for, how established your business is and what the business financial situation is. Your business profile and situation will have an impact on what loan you choose or are approved for.

For example, if you need to cover multiple small expenses over a short time, you might look at an overdraft, line of credit or business credit card.

Rebecca Pike's headshot
Our expert says: Prepare a thorough loan application

"When lenders assess your business loan application they will consider your business purpose, your historical business finances and your financial projections. They'll also consider the business credit score as well as your personal credit score and financial situation.

Because of this it's really important to do all the calculations and collate all the information to put the best application forward.

It's also a good idea to speak to your accountant or finance broker for help and support."

Senior Money Writer

How do I apply for a business loan?

  1. Work out what type of business loan you need.
  2. Compare loans and rates from multiple lenders.
  3. Prepare all your personal and business financial records and documents.
  4. Complete the application.
  5. Wait for the funds to reach your account.

Online business lenders can approve applications quickly. A traditional bank may take longer and you have to speak to a lending specialist from the bank first.

Documents you need for a business loan application

  • A valid ABN or ACN for your business.
  • Annual financial statements that include a balance sheet and income statement
  • Recent individual tax returns, an ATO notice of assessment and other details.
  • Credit reports for you and your business (the lender will check this).
  • Information about the property or asset you're offering as security.

Compare business credit cards

Name Bonus points Points per $ spent Complimentary travel insurance Minimum annual revenue Annual fee
American Express Qantas Business Rewards Card
American Express Qantas Business Rewards Card image
Finder Award
Qantas Business Rewards
Bonus points
170,000
Points per $ spent
1.25
Complimentary travel insurance
Yes
Minimum annual revenue
$75,000
Annual fee
$450
Go to siteMore Info
Limited time offer: Earn 170,000 bonus Qantas Points when you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months. ABN holders w/ $75k revenue.
American Express Platinum Business Card
American Express Platinum Business Card image
Membership Rewards Ascent Premium
Bonus points
250,000
Points per $ spent
2.25
Complimentary travel insurance
Yes
Minimum annual revenue
$75,000
Annual fee
$875 first year ($1,750 after)
Go to siteMore Info
Limited time offer: Get 250,000 Membership Rewards Bonus Points when you spend $12,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months. Plus, a first-year annual fee discount. ABN holders w/ $75,000 revenue. Ends 25 March 2025.
American Express Velocity Business Card
American Express Velocity Business Card image
Velocity Frequent Flyer
Bonus points
170,000
Points per $ spent
1
Complimentary travel insurance
Yes
Minimum annual revenue
$75,000
Annual fee
$249
Go to siteMore Info
Limited time offer: New American Express card members can get 170,000 bonus Velocity Points when you spend $5,000 in the first 2 months. ABN holders w/ $75,000 revenue.
American Express Business Gold Plus Card
American Express Business Gold Plus Card image
Membership Rewards Ascent
Bonus points
200,000
Points per $ spent
1.5
Complimentary travel insurance
Yes
Minimum annual revenue
$75,000
Annual fee
$395
Go to siteMore Info
ABN holders w/ $75,000 revenue. New American Express card members can get 200,000 Membership Rewards Bonus Points when you spend $5,000 within the first 3 months. Plus, earn up to 3 points per $1 spent at Xero, Google Ads, Meta, Amazon Web Services and Dell. Ends 25 March 2025.
loading
Showing 4 of 10 results
Remove the Finder Partner filter to view all products in the database

Why you can trust Finder's business loan experts

freeYou pay nothing. Finder is free to use. And you pay the same as going direct. No markups, no hidden fees. Guaranteed.
expert adviceYou save time. We spend 100s of hours researching business loans so you can sort the gold from the junk faster.
independentYou compare more. Our comparison tools bring you more business loans from across the market.

Frequently asked questions about business loans

Justine Mclean is a business finance expert, author, speaker, financial educator and host of the Secrets of Successful Business podcast. With 30 years of experience in small business, Justine is on a mission to help business owners increase their financial literacy, build solid financial foundations and create profitable and sustainable businesses.

Justine released her book Become A Business Money Magnet - Simple habits to manage your money and supercharge your profits in 2024; she is a registered BAS Agent, Ladies Finance Club Ambassador, and named one of Coach Foundation's Top Female Business Coaches for 2022.

Richard Whitten's headshot
Justine Mclean's headshot
To make sure you get accurate and helpful information, this guide has been edited by Richard Whitten and reviewed by Justine Mclean, a member of Finder's Editorial Review Board.
Elizabeth Barry's headshot
Journalist

Elizabeth Barry is an experienced journalist with over 10 years of expertise in personal finance, contributing to outlets like the ABC, Sydney Morning Herald, and 7News. She holds a Master of Arts in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Technology Sydney, and has earned multiple award nominations, including a Highly Commended recognition at the 2017 Lizzies. Elizabeth began her career at Finder in 2013, progressing through roles to become Lead Editor, where she oversaw a wide range of personal finance coverage until 2024. See full bio

Elizabeth's expertise
Elizabeth has written 210 Finder guides across topics including:
  • Banking
  • Personal finance
  • Investing

Ask a question

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms Of Service and Finder Group Privacy & Cookies Policy.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

34 Responses

    Default Gravatar
    vinodsinghJune 26, 2018

    i am recently retired man. i am on aged pension. i need business loan to purchase established business. i want to put some $25000 –$ 35000/ in to it from super annuation funds. i am regularly getting aged pension from centrelink.please guide me the lenders who are liberal in granting business loan to me.

      Default Gravatar
      NikkiJune 27, 2018

      Hi Vinod!

      Thanks for reaching out to us.

      To apply for a business loan, generally, you will need a summary of your business’ financials, a business plan, financial forecasts (including cash flow forecasts), and your personal information. However, many new lenders simply request to log into your business’ accounting software to get this information for themselves.

      You may refer to our list of Centrelink business loans to know which lender may consider you for a loan. Please click the name of the lender or the “More info” link to be redirected to our review page and learn more about the lender’s loan offer, rates, and requirements as well as the pros and cons of using their loan service. When you are ready, you may then click on the “Go to site” button and you will be redirected to the lender’s website where you can proceed with the application or get in touch with their representatives for further inquiries you may have.

      Before applying, please ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and read through the details of the needed requirements as well as the relevant Product Disclosure Statements/Terms and Conditions when comparing your options before making a decision on whether it is right for you. You can also contact the provider if you have specific questions.

      Hope this helps.

      Regards,
      Nikki

    Default Gravatar
    ClaireApril 7, 2018

    my question is l am looking for information for a business online banking account, what will be the monthly fees be to have this online account? l have obtained information from NAB and CWB that the account will be zero a month for an online account when you do not use the branch, all banking is done online. to have an OD attached to this online banking business account the fees are below for an unsecured amount.
    for OD facility NAB is 14.5% with 1.75% annual fees
    for OF facility with CWB 14.75% with 1.75% annual fees
    what is will the account fees be with ANZ and Westpac
    l cannot see where l find these on your site.
    also how long back did a zero fee for online banking start with an online banking account, what year?

      AvatarFinder
      MayApril 9, 2018Finder

      Hi Claire,

      Thank you for your questions.

      1. l am looking for information for a business online banking account, what will be the monthly fees be to have this online account?
      Depending on the type of account, some banks have nil monthly fees, others may charge as much as $20. You may refer to our list of business bank accounts to compare your options. Most banking accounts these days can be done easily online.

      2. What is will the account fees be with ANZ and Westpac?
      You can find more information about ANZ business accounts and its fees from our comparison table. For Westpac, Depending on the account, they charge $10 monthly account fee for their Westpac Business One Account – Low Plan and $20 for Westpac Business One Account – High Plan

      3. How long back did a zero fee for online banking start with an online banking account, what year?
      I’m afraid we don’t have information in that regard. But most banks offer cheaper if not zero fees on some of their online bank accounts to their customers helping them save money on monthly charges.

      Hope this helps.

      Cheers,
      May

    Default Gravatar
    TomFebruary 13, 2018

    small business unsecured loan of 300,000. to buy an existing profitable business , with low fixed interest , no early payout fee ,over 5years approx. Have financial statements of business and $800,000. assets of my own , so could be secured loan.

      AvatarFinder
      RenchMarch 4, 2018Finder

      Hi Tom,

      Thank you for your inquiry.

      Buying a business is a great undertaking and requires a lot of work. If you haven’t already, you might find our guide in buying a business useful. On the page is a comparison table you can use to find the right lender for you. Once done comparing, you may tick the “Go to Site” or to request a call click the available “Enquire now” button. Before applying for a loan, it would be good to check their eligibility requirements as well as their terms and conditions.

      Best regards,
      Rench

    Default Gravatar
    MikeAugust 31, 2017

    Hello,
    Just wondering if there are any finance options available for me. Right now all I have is my business plan and projections from my account. That’s it, no assets, no defaults on my credit score however I do have 3 inquiries(Business related). I’m looking for funding for my equipment, without the equipment we can’t start. Is there any chance at all for me?

    Regards,
    Mike.

    Default Gravatar
    TrevorAugust 30, 2017

    Is there a possibility of being funded without collateral and a guarantor? Low doc, etc..?

      AvatarFinder
      HaroldAugust 31, 2017Finder

      Hi Trevor,

      Thank you for your inquiry.

      You may want to consider the following low doc loans.

      Low Doc Personal Loans
      Low Doc Home Loans

      I hope this information has helped.

      Cheers,
      Harold

Read more on Business Loans

  • Heritage Bank Equipment Loan

    Purchase, replace or upgrade new or used equipment up to $500,000.

  • Business car loans

    If you're after a business car, compare your vehicle finance and car loan options and get your business on the road.

  • BankSA Small Business Loans

    Whether you're looking to support cash flow, grow your business or purchase new equipment, BankSA may have a business loan option for you.

  • Heritage Bank Business Line of Credit

    It's not always easy to know exactly how much money you need to keep your business cash flow healthy. Heritage Bank's Business Line of Credit lets you draw down what you need, up to a limit.

  • Heritage Bank Fully Drawn Business Loan

    Heritage Bank's Fully Drawn Business Loan is a flexible business finance offering with both fixed and variable rate options, a high maximum loan term and no limit on borrowing power.

  • How to offer your customers finance

    A guide to customer finance options for small businesses, including 0% interest finance.

  • How to buy a petrol station

    Buying a petrol station? Here’s how to find the right business and compare petrol station loans to finance your purchase.

  • Westpac Secured Business Loan

    Find out about Westpac's business offerings including secured and unsecured business loans, overdrafts and credit cards.

  • St.George Small Business Loan

    Benefit from a fixed or variable rate small business loan with St.George.

  • CommBank BetterBusiness Loan

    Take advantage of a fixed rate or variable rate business loan with CommBank.

Go to site