How we approach harder applications.

No credit history yet, a part time job, and a dealer offering finance on the spot.

What we check

1. 1We look at how long the income has been steady. Hours alone do not tell a lender much.
2. 2We check which lenders on our panel consider a thin credit file.
3. 3We compare the panel options against the dealer's offer, with fees, before anything is signed.

Base pay looks modest on paper, but penalty rates and overtime make up a large part of what actually lands each fortnight.

What we check

1. 1We gather enough payslips to show the pattern of shift income.
2. 2We shortlist lenders whose policy counts penalty rates and overtime.
3. 3We explain how each lender treats casual and agency work before you apply.

A tradie with a young ABN, strong bank deposits and no full year of tax returns yet.

What we check

1. 1We check the ABN age and GST registration against each lender's minimum.
2. 2We use BAS or bank statements where a lender accepts them instead of tax returns.
3. 3We explain low doc trade-offs, including rate and deposit, up front.

A paid default from a few years ago and clean conduct since.

What we check

1. 1We ask about the default before any lender sees it, so there are no surprises.
2. 2We shortlist lenders on our panel with policy for paid, older defaults.
3. 3Different lenders use different credit criteria, and approval depends on their assessment.

In a Part 9 debt agreement and needing a reliable car to get to work.

What we check

1. 1We confirm where you are in the agreement and whether your administrator needs to be told.
2. 2We check which lenders consider applicants in, or recently out of, a Part 9.
3. 3We explain what is realistic before anything touches your credit file.

Age Pension or DVA income, a modest loan amount, and a car that needs replacing.

What we check

1. 1We check which lenders accept pension or DVA income, and how much of it.
2. 2We work out a repayment that fits the fortnightly budget first.
3. 3We show the total cost over the term alongside the repayment.

Working in Australia on a temporary visa with time left to run.

What we check

1. 1We check the visa subclass and expiry against each lender's policy.
2. 2We match the loan term to the time left on the visa where a lender requires it.
3. 3We tell you which documents lenders will ask for before you apply.

A growing business needing a machine or vehicle without draining working capital.

What we check

1. 1We compare chattel mortgage, hire purchase and lease structures for the asset.
2. 2We explain the tax and balance sheet differences in plain terms, and point you to your accountant for the rest.
3. 3We match the structure to lenders on our panel who finance that asset class.