Equipment Finance

From commercial vehicles to heavy machinery and technology — we structure equipment loans and leases that protect your cash flow and match your asset’s working life.

We’ll match the right product to your asset, your tax position, and the way your business manages cash flow.

What Is a Chattel Mortgage?

A chattel mortgage is the most common equipment finance product for businesses. You take ownership of the asset immediately, while the lender holds a mortgage over it as security until the loan is repaid. Because you own the asset from day one, you may be able to claim the full GST input tax credit upfront and depreciate the asset in your business — speak to your accountant about the tax treatment.

Who Is It Best For?

Chattel mortgages suit GST-registered businesses that want to own the asset outright and maximise tax deductions. They work well for high-use assets where you intend to keep the equipment long-term, such as trucks, excavators, trailers, and medical equipment. The balloon payment option can reduce monthly repayments and is popular for assets that retain strong resale value.

What Is a Finance Lease?

Under a finance lease, the lender (lessor) purchases the asset and leases it to your business for an agreed term. You use and control the asset throughout the lease, but legal ownership remains with the lender. At the end of the lease term, you typically have the option to purchase the asset at a residual value, extend the lease, or return the equipment.

Tax & Cash Flow Benefits

Finance lease repayments are often fully tax-deductible as a business expense (subject to your accountant’s advice), rather than capitalised as a depreciating asset. This can be particularly advantageous for businesses seeking to reduce their taxable income. A finance lease also preserves your working capital by spreading the cost of the asset over its useful life.

What Is a Novated Lease?

A novated lease is a three-way agreement between you (the employee), your employer, and a finance company. Your employer takes on the lease obligations and makes repayments on your behalf from your pre-tax salary — reducing your taxable income and potentially saving you thousands in income tax. It’s one of the most tax-effective ways for employees to finance a vehicle.

What’s Included?

Novated leases can bundle all vehicle running costs — including fuel, insurance, registration, servicing, and tyres — into a single fortnightly pre-tax salary deduction via a Fully Maintained Novated Lease (FMNL). This simplifies budgeting and ensures you’re never caught off guard by an unexpected repair bill, all while maximising your tax saving.

Indicative rates, terms, and product features across our three most popular equipment finance structures.

Feature

Details

Eligible Vehicles

New, used, or demo passenger vehicles and utes

Lease Term

12 – 60 months

Pre-Tax Savings

Repayments made from pre-tax salary (FBT rules apply)

Running Costs

Can include fuel, rego, insurance, servicing (FMNL)

EV & PHEV Benefit

EVs under the LCT threshold may be exempt from FBT

End of Lease

Payout, re-lease, or return the vehicle

Employer Requirement

Employer must agree to participate

Fast approvals, flexible structures, and finance options built around how your business actually operates.

Most equipment finance applications move from enquiry to approval within 24–48 hours.

1

Quick Online Enquiry

Tell us what you need to finance, your ABN, and approximate loan amount. No credit check at this stage.
2

Quote & Comparison

We compare rates and structures across our lender panel and present you with a clear recommendation within hours.
3

Application & Approval

We prepare and lodge your application. Most decisions are returned within 24 hours for standard transactions.
4

Asset Delivery & Drawdown

Once approved and documents are signed, funds are paid directly to the supplier or dealer and your asset is delivered.

General eligibility criteria for equipment and asset finance — specific requirements vary by lender and asset type.

  • ABN registered for a minimum of 12 months (some lenders accept 6 months for strong applications)
  • Business or personal income sufficient to service the loan repayments
  • Asset must be used primarily for business or income-producing purposes
  • Satisfactory business and personal credit history
  • Asset must be an eligible type and within the lender’s age and condition guidelines
  • For novated leases: employer must agree to participate in a salary packaging arrangement

Practical answers to the equipment finance questions we hear most often from business owners.

Can I finance a used vehicle or second-hand equipment?

Yes — most lenders will finance quality used assets, though they typically apply age restrictions. Passenger vehicles are generally acceptable up to 12–15 years old at the end of the loan term. Heavy equipment age limits vary by asset type. We’ll identify lenders willing to finance your specific asset.

What is a balloon payment?

A balloon payment (also called a residual value) is a lump sum payable at the end of the loan term. By deferring a portion of the principal to the end, your regular repayments are lower throughout the loan. At maturity, you can pay the balloon, refinance it, or — in the case of a motor vehicle — trade the asset in and use the proceeds to clear it.

Do I need to be GST-registered to use a chattel mortgage?

No — non-GST-registered businesses and even individuals can use a chattel mortgage for business-use assets. However, the GST benefit (claiming the full input tax credit upfront) is only available to GST-registered businesses. Non-registered borrowers can still benefit from the fixed rate and ownership structure.

How does the instant asset write-off affect equipment finance?

Where the instant asset write-off threshold applies, eligible businesses may be able to deduct the full cost of a new asset in the year of purchase — even when financed. The key is that the business must take ownership of the asset (chattel mortgage structure). Speak with your accountant about whether your purchase qualifies and the applicable threshold in the current financial year.

Our equipment finance specialists will compare the market and find a competitive, flexible solution that works for your business — often with same-day approval.