$5,000 personal loan options in Australia

A personal loan is one of the easier ways to borrow $5,000, and with a good credit score you can get a competitive rate. Bad credit borrowers still have options, but they are more expensive.

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1 - 10 of 21
Product Interest Rate (p.a.) Comp. Rate (p.a.) Application Fee Monthly Fee Monthly Repayment
NOW Finance No Fee Unsecured Personal Loan
Finder AwardFixed18 Months - 7 Years $5,000 - $50,000
NOW Finance logo
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.45%
to 26.95%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.45%
to 26.95%
Application Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$153.13
Harmoney Unsecured Personal Loan
Fixed3 - 7 Years $2,000 - $70,000
Harmoney logo
Interest Rate (p.a.)
5.76%
to 24.03%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.55%
to 24.98%
Application Fee
$275 - $575
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$169
Receive competitive interest rates tailored to your personal circumstances, repay the loan early without incurring an early repayment fee, and enjoy no monthly or annual fees.
MONEYME Personal Loans
Variable3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $50,000
MONEYME logo
Interest Rate (p.a.)
5.99%
to 24.49%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.70%
to 25.90%
Application Fee
$0 - $495
Monthly Fee
$10
Monthly Repayment
$177.14
MoneyPlace Unsecured Personal Loan
Fixed3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $80,000
MoneyPlace logo
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.55%
to 19.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.55%
to 21.49%
Application Fee
0% - 5.50%
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$161.79
Great Southern Bank logo
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.99%
to 19.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.31%
to 20.35%
Application Fee
$225
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$163.71
Latitude Variable Rate Personal Loan
Variable2 - 7 Years $5,000 - $100,000
Latitude Financial Services logo
Interest Rate (p.a.)
9.49%
to 29.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
10.93%
to 31.38%
Application Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$13
Monthly Repayment
$173.14
Special offer: The $395 establishment fee is waived for approved personal loan applications. Latitude may withdraw the offer at any time. T&Cs apply.
NAB Personal Loan Unsecured Fixed
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $55,000
NAB logo
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.49%
to 20.49%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.53%
to 21.38%
Application Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$15
Monthly Repayment
$170.51
Special Offer: For a limited time NAB is waiving the $250 application fee when you apply for a NAB Unsecured Personal Loan. Offer valid from 6 March to 31 May 2025. Other fees and charges still apply.
Jacaranda Finance Secured Personal Loan
Fixed25 Months - 3 Years $3,000 - $25,000
Jacaranda Finance logo
Interest Rate (p.a.)
16.95%
to 29.95%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
32.99%
to 45.50%
Application Fee
$125 - $1,190
Monthly Fee
$26
Monthly Repayment
$246.54
NAB Personal Loan Unsecured Variable Rate
Variable1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $55,000
NAB logo
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.49%
to 20.49%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.53%
to 21.38%
Application Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$15
Monthly Repayment
$170.51
Special Offer: For a limited time NAB is waiving the $250 application fee when you apply for a NAB Unsecured Personal Loan. Offer valid from 6 March to 31 May 2025. Other fees and charges still apply.
MoneyPlace Secured Personal Loan
Fixed3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $80,000
MoneyPlace logo
Interest Rate (p.a.)
5.90%
to 19.19%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.33%
to 20.77%
Application Fee
3% - 5.50%
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
$160.24
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Key takeaways

  • When comparing $5,000 personal loans you should think about the interest rate, fees, loan type and loan term.
  • You may be able to take out a $5,000 with bad credit, but expect to pay higher fees.
  • Using a credit card with a limit of $5,000 might be an alternative, but it depends if you can repay it quickly.

How can I get a $5,000 loan?

Taking out a personal loan is probably the simplest way for most borrowers to get a $5,000 loan.

Must read: Watch out for payday loans

While payday loans are advertised as fast, easy ways to get smaller loans, they're limited by law to $2,000 and have very high fees.

What kind of personal loans can I use to borrow $5,000?

Most people looking for a $5,000 loan will choose an unsecured personal loan. These loans are easier to get and you don't have to put up a car as security.

Secured personal loans typically require a new (or newish) car as security. While some lenders may offer you a lower rate (because the loan is lower risk to the lender), these days the lowest unsecured personal loan rates are often just as low.

How much does a $5,000 personal loan cost?

The exact cost of a $5,000 personal loan depends on:

  • The length of the loan.
  • The interest rate.
  • The fees.

$5,000 personal loan cost examples

Loan value
Loan term
Interest rate
Monthly fee
Monthly repayments
Total loan cost
$5,000
3
7%
$10
$165
$5918
$5,000
4
10%
$5
$132
$6,328
$5,000
5
12%
$8
$120
$7,154

When you apply for a personal loan it's important to consider the different fees, interest rates and loan terms. As you can see, a 5 year loan term with a higher interest rate will give you lower monthly repayments, but you'll end up paying much more in fees and interest over the loan period.

These are just simplified examples that don't take your personal circumstances into account. Use a personal loan repayment calculator to figure out your own loan costs.

What is the personal loan comparison rate?

The personal loan comparison rate takes into account both the loan's interest rate and the cost of fees. It's designed to help you understand the true cost of a loan.

Every personal loan has a comparison rate, but most lenders calculate these rates based on different loan sizes, typically $30,000 or $10,000. So these rates don't always reflect the costs for a $5,000 loan.

How do I compare $5,000 loans?

  • Look at the rates and fees. A loan with a lower rate and fewer fees will save you money.
  • Choose the right loan term. A personal loan with a 1-year term is usually cheaper than a 5-year loan because you pay less interest over a shorter time. But your monthly repayments will be higher. So the right loan term is about balancing your monthly and your overall costs.
  • Look for a loan with features you need. Some personal loans allow you to make extra repayments without a fee, which helps you pay off the loan faster.
  • Check the lender's eligibility criteria before you apply. Don't waste time (and hurt your credit score) applying for a $5,000 loan you're not eligible for. Make sure you meet the lender's criteria first.
  • Get your credit score in good shape. The lowest rates and the best deals go to borrowers with excellent credit scores. Improve your credit score before applying for a loan.

Check your credit score for free through Finder

Personal loan statistics in April 2025

  • The lowest unsecured rate is 5.76% and the average is 10.74%.
  • The lowest secured rate is 6% and the average is 9.79%.
  • The average Australian is carrying $22,451 in personal loans (including car loans).
  • Most people take out personal loan terms of 4 years.
  • 44% of millennials with a loan are concerned about their debt.
  • *The information in this update comes from Finder's loans database and Consumer Sentiment Tracker. Information is correct as of 7 April 2025.

Can I borrow $5,000 if I have bad credit?

If you have bad credit you might find it harder to get a personal loan. A small loan amount like $5,000 might be accepted by some lenders, but you'll probably find you have a higher interest rate.

Borrowers with bad credit who need money quickly often turn to payday loans or bad credit loans, but these solutions are usually very costly and can make your debt situation worse.

Can I get a $5,000 personal loan with guaranteed approval?

Beware of lenders whose websites mention "guaranteed approval" for small loans. The truth is any regulated lender will perform some kind of check on your credit score and suitability as a borrower before lending you $5,000.

These lenders are often going to charge you very high interest rates and fees.

If a lender is truly promising you "a small personal loan with guaranteed approval" they are likely a scam. You can check ASIC's register to see if a lending business is appropriately licensed.

⚠️ Warning about Borrowing

payday-warningDo you really need a loan today?*

It can be expensive to borrow small amounts of money and borrowing may not solve your money problems.

Check your options before you borrow:

  • For information about other options for managing bills and debts, ring 1800 007 007 from anywhere in Australia to talk to a free and independent financial counsellor
  • Talk to your electricity, gas, phone or water provider to see if you can work out a payment plan
  • If you are on government benefits, ask if you can receive an advance from Centrelink: Phone: 13 17 94

The Government's MoneySmart website shows you how small amount loans work and suggests other options that may help you.

* This statement is an Australian Government requirement under the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009.

Alternatives to a $5,000 personal loan

If a personal loan doesn't work for you and you'd rather avoid a pricey payday loan, you could consider one of the following:

  • Credit card. If you have an existing credit card you might be able to get the credit limit raised to $5,000 or you might already have a limit that high. Credit cards also offer interest-free periods. But after that, you'll be charged a higher interest rate compared to a personal loan. If you can't pay back the $5,000 purchase in a short time this will end up being quite expensive.
  • Home loan top up. If you have a home loan and you've been making repayments on time, your lender may approve a top up to the home loan, allowing you to borrow slightly more against your equity and put it on your loan. Your home loan will have a lower rate than a personal loan. But keep in mind that a home loan is a much longer debt, so adding to it means you pay more in interest in the long run.
  • No interest loans (NILs). While you can't get $5,000, eligible Australians on low incomes can qualify for no interest loans from community-led non-profit organisations. You don't get charged interest, but it's also not really a loan. You can only use the money for an approved expense, such as car repairs, medical expenses or an essential household item.
Rebecca Pike's headshot
Our expert says: Think carefully before using a credit card

"A credit card might be tempting as a rolling credit solution, particularly if you already have one. But if you need the money to cover a single $5,000 purchase, a credit card is rarely the answer.

With high interest rates and a short interest-free period, you would need to be confident you could pay off the money quickly. Interest free periods are usually around 44 days, but after that you would pay a much higher rate than with a personal loan."

Senior Money Writer

Why compare personal loans with Finder?

freeAddicted to details. We know taking out a personal loan is something you'll be hooked up with for a while. That's why we put hours into research for this guide (and still do at least once a month)
expert adviceRates obsessed. Lenders come in all shapes and sizes, that's why we don't just track the big banks, but all the digi folk too. Pretty much everyone but your parents to be honest.
independentCash for whatever you need. Lending rates verified from 180+ products day and night. Whether you're buying a car, rennovating your home or heck just ready to let loose with the spending - we got you.

Frequently asked questions about $5,000 personal loans

Rebecca Pike's headshot
To make sure you get accurate and helpful information, this guide has been edited by Rebecca Pike as part of our fact-checking process.
Richard Whitten's headshot
Money Editor

Richard Whitten is Finder’s Money Editor, with over seven years of experience in home loans, property and personal finance. His insights appear in top media outlets like Yahoo Finance, Money Magazine, and the Herald Sun, and he frequently offers expert commentary on television and radio, helping Australians navigate mortgages and property ownership. Richard holds multiple industry certifications, including a Certificate IV in Mortgage Broking (RG 206) and Tier 1 and Tier 2 certifications (RG 146), as well as a Graduate Certificate in Communications from Deakin University. See full bio

Richard's expertise
Richard has written 609 Finder guides across topics including:
  • Home loans
  • Property
  • Personal finance
  • Money-saving tips

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248 Responses

    Default Gravatar
    BridgetApril 12, 2016

    Can you borrow from these lenders if you live in USA

      AvatarFinder
      ElizabethApril 13, 2016Finder

      Hi Bridget,

      You’ve come through to the Australian section of our website, but you can compare your US loan options here. Please read through the eligibility requirements and the terms and conditions prior to any application.

      I hope this will help,

      Elizabeth

    Default Gravatar
    MimiApril 11, 2016

    How much will u be deducting and for how long if i take a loan for $10 000&im getting $200 a month

      AvatarFinder
      ElizabethApril 13, 2016Finder

      Hi Mimi,

      It depends on which lender you apply with and how long your repayment terms are. You can compare your $10,000 loan options and you can use the personal loan calculator to work out your repayments once you know your interest rate, fees and how long your loan term will be.

      Hope this has helped,

      Elizabeth

    Default Gravatar
    barbaraMarch 25, 2016

    I need a 5,000.00 loan for back taxes or loose my house who do I talk to I need this fast

      AvatarFinder
      ElizabethMarch 29, 2016Finder

      Hi Barbara,

      Unfortunately I can’t recommend a specific lender to you, but the options for a loan of $5,000 are listed on the page above. Both good and bad credit options are listed in different sections above, so you can have a look at the lenders that best meet your needs. You can click through to a lender’s website or review page to find out more information or to apply.

      I hope this will help,

      Elizabeth

    Default Gravatar
    HenryMarch 14, 2016

    Im applying for 3 time at three different lender which is aeon, rhb bank and cimb bank. However this three application fail. I dont know why.

      AvatarFinder
      ElizabethMarch 15, 2016Finder

      Hi Henry,

      Thanks for your inquiry.

      Making multiple loan applications at once or in a short space of time can be red flags to lenders and can further hurt your credit score as each application is listed on your credit file. Also, each lender uses its own criteria to approve you so you may not have met their criteria to be approved. You may want to wait to apply again, but you can consider a lender that doesn’t perform a credit check.

      I hope this information helps,

      Elizabeth

    Default Gravatar
    MalefuMarch 4, 2016

    I am south african and unemployed i need a loan of 2500 i can pay 300 a month can u help me

      AvatarFinder
      ElizabethMarch 7, 2016Finder

      Hi Malefu,

      Unfortunately, as an Australian comparison service, the lenders on this page can only consider you for a loan if you currently reside in Australia. You may need to find a lender in South Africa to apply for a loan.

      Elizabeth

More guides on Finder

  • MoneyPlace secured personal loan

    This secured loan may be used for any worthwhile purchase and requires security against a vehicle. It uses risk-based pricing, so your interest rate will be set based on your credit score and history.

  • NOW Finance Secured Personal Loan

    A risk-based personal loan from one of Australia's biggest non-bank lenders. Get a personalised rate which rewards higher credit scores.

  • ING Personal Loan

    An ING personal loan offers certainty with fixed interest rates and fixed repayments over a set term.

  • NOW Finance Unsecured Personal Loan

    An unsecured personal loan with zero fees and interest rates personalised to your risk profile.

  • Can I get a personal loan?

    We’ve written about what lenders look for when assessing your personal loan application.

  • MoneyPlace Unsecured Personal Loan

    Why not be rewarded for your good credit history? MoneyPlace offers unsecured personal loans with rates starting at 8.49% p.a. – finance a range of personal purposes and borrow up to $80,000. Read the review and see if you're eligible to apply.

  • ANZ Fixed Rate Personal Loan

    If you are budget-conscious and looking for a personal loan with clear expectations and repayments, the ANZ Fixed Rate Personal Loan is an option worth considering. With low fees and a competitive interest rate, this loan might be an option for you.

  • ANZ Variable Rate Personal Loan

    The ANZ Variable Rate Personal Loan may be a great choice for borrowers who want options. With a free redraw facility and the option to make additional repayments, borrowers get the comfort of a personal loan that will let them access much-needed funds.

  • SocietyOne Unsecured Personal Loan

    Find out what rate you qualify for with Society One's innovative sliding interest rate scale. Loans are available up to $50,000, with flexible loan terms between two and three years. Find out how the loan works and if you're eligible to apply.

  • Personal loan calculator

    Use a personal loan calculator to work out your repayments or compare loans with a comparison calculator.

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