Business Loans in Australia: Funding Growth, Cash Flow and Opportunity
Christian Stevens, Mortgage Broker
Published January 31, 2025, 2:10 p.m ET
Whether you’re launching a start-up, expanding operations, or smoothing out seasonal cash flow, business loans provide the capital needed to keep things moving. But with so many loan types and lender requirements, knowing where to start can be a challenge.
Here’s what you need to know about business finance options in Australia — and how to secure the right loan for your goals.
Share:
🔑 Key Facts
- Business loans help fund expansion, equipment, payroll, cash flow gaps, and more.
- Loan types include term loans, lines of credit, unsecured loans, and specialist equipment finance.
- Lenders assess business financials, cash flow, credit history, and loan purpose.
- Flint helps businesses find tailored funding options with flexible terms and faster approvals.
What is a Business Loan?
A business loan provides funds to support company operations, purchases or growth. Unlike personal loans, they’re assessed based on your business’s financial position, not just your individual income.
Common uses include:
- Working capital or cash flow smoothing
- Equipment or vehicle purchases
- Stock and inventory
- Hiring and expansion
- Launching or acquiring a business
Types of Business Finance
| Loan Type | Best For | Features |
|---|---|---|
|
Term Loan |
Large, fixed-purpose expenses |
Borrower owns from day one |
|
Line of Credit |
Ongoing cash flow |
Revolving access, only pay interest on what you use |
|
Equipment Loan |
Buying tools or machinery |
Asset-secured, often tax-effective |
|
Invoice Finance |
Slow-paying clients |
Advance against unpaid invoices |
|
Unsecured Loan |
Fast access, no collateral |
Higher rates, short term |
Each option has pros and cons depending on tax, GST treatment, and asset use.
How Business Loans Are Assessed
Lenders consider both business and personal financials:
- Business turnover and profit margins
- Trading history (usually 6–24 months minimum)
- Business credit file and director history
- Purpose of funds and repayment plan
- Existing liabilities (including other loans or leases)
Tips to strengthen your application:
- Have clear financial statements and BAS
- Prepare a business plan if applying for a start-up loan
- Keep your personal credit profile healthy
- Reduce unnecessary business debt before applying
Secured vs Unsecured Loans
| Feature | Secured Loan | Unsecured Loan |
|---|---|---|
|
Security |
Backed by property, equipment or vehicles |
No asset required |
|
Interest Rate |
Lower |
Higher |
|
Approval Speed |
Slower (more checks) |
Fast (24–72 hours) |
|
Loan Amounts |
Higher |
Usually capped |
Your choice depends on how quickly you need funding, your credit profile, and whether you have business assets to offer as collateral.
📞 Need Funding to Grow Your Business?
At Flint, we help business owners navigate a wide range of finance options:
- Fast access to unsecured working capital
- Structured loans for growth and acquisition
- Equipment and vehicle loans with flexible terms
Let’s talk about your business goalsChat with Flint today and find the right lending solution to make them happen.
Recommended Articles
Business & Asset Finance
Downsizing with Confidence: Financial Tips for Over-50s
Aug 18, 2025
Business & Asset Finance
Unlocking Financial Potential for Senior Executives: Leverage...
Aug 18, 2025
Business & Asset Finance
The Essential Guide to Deposit Bonds: What Homebuyers and...
Aug 18, 2025
Monthly Newsletter
Subscribe and be the first to know about what’s happening in the market.
Contact Us Today
Learn more about how we can help you achieve your financial goals.
Don’t worry, there’s no commitment. Strategic guidance guaranteed.