Key Takeaways
- Many lenders in Australia, particularly banks, will look at your credit score, financials, debt ratios, time in business, and more when assessing your loan eligibility.
- Not all lenders will have the same eligibility criteria — if you don’t meet the requirements of one lender, you can still get a business loan from another.
- To increase your chances of approval, you can work towards paying off current debts, improving your credit score and engage the help of loan experts like Dark Horse Financial.
Access to capital is absolutely essential for small businesses — so many small enterprises struggle with daily cash flow challenges. Others may do well, but not enough to expand or invest in their business in the way they would like. Securing a business loan can be a pivotal step for business owners to achieve the working capital requirements they need and reach their goals.
If you’re looking for a business loan, explore this comprehensive guide on how to qualify for one and what to do if you don’t meet the usual criteria.
Understanding Business Loans in Australia
For a lot of small businesses, financing is the key to survival and growth. Loans to SMEs account for more than half of all outstanding business loans in Australia, which shows just how important financing is for small business owners all over the country.
There are many types of business loans for different purposes. In its essence, a business loan is when a lender provides funding, and the business has the responsibility to pay off the amount in instalments plus interest over time.
Here are some of the most common loan types Australian businesses apply for:
- Secured and Unsecured Term Loans: These loans provide a lump sum to the borrower and have to be paid off in instalments with interest over time. They can be secured with an asset or property, or they can be unsecured.
- Lines of Credit: Lines of credit allow borrowing up to a set limit. The borrower only pays interest on the amount used. These are ideal for managing cash flow or unexpected expenses.
- Equipment Finance: These loans are specifically for purchasing business equipment, with the equipment serving as security.
- Invoice Financing: This type of loan allows you to borrow against the value of your unpaid invoices. They can help you manage cash flow if your business has long payment cycles.
- Trade and Import Finance: This type of financing allows you to pay for material supplies and the importation of goods while giving your business up to 210 days to pay it off.
What Do Lenders Look At?
When assessing your application for a business loan, lenders typically consider a few factors, though it’s important to note that not all lenders will have strict requirements, especially non-bank or private lenders. Here are some of the most basic factors lenders will look at when you apply for business loans in Australia.
Your Credit Score
Some lenders, especially banks, consider credit scores and histories as primary criteria for business loan approval. A high credit score indicates a lower risk for the lender since it shows that you have a history of repaying debts regularly and on time.
Your Capacity to Pay the Loan
The most important factor for lenders is a business’s repayment capacity, which can be determined through different factors. These include the business’s cash flow, income, assets and liabilities, and debt ratios (the Debt Service Coverage Ratio is a good way to assess if a business’s income safely covers its debts).
Time in Business
The length of time your business has been operating can significantly impact your loan application. Many lenders prefer businesses with a proven track record, often requiring a minimum of two to three years in operation. However, some lenders, including non-bank and private lenders, may be more flexible with this requirement.
Industry
Some lenders specialise in certain industries, so it’s important to find the right lenders that truly understand the ins and outs of your sector. For instance, some lenders have more experience with and better understand industries with seasonal income. While unstable cash flow may dissuade other lenders from extending credit, others may be willing to do so.
Security
If you’re applying for a secured loan, the value of your property security can enhance your chances of approval and getting better terms. This is because assets such as property, equipment, or inventory serve to reduce the lender’s risk.
How to Qualify for a Business Loan in Australia
To increase your likelihood of qualifying for a business loan in Australia, consider implementing these strategies:
Improve Your Credit Score
Paying off your debts regularly and on time improves your credit score and makes you a more attractive borrower to lenders. Regularly reviewing your business and personal credit reports to ensure there are no errors can help ensure your score is as good as it could be.
Consider Offering Security
Applying for secured loans and leveraging assets such as property, equipment, or inventory can make your application more appealing to lenders. Pledging security can also help you secure a higher loan amount, lower interest rate, and better overall terms.
Pay Down Your Existing Debts
Having a lot of existing debt may affect your loan serviceability and can be considered a red flag by many lenders. You can reduce your current debts by paying them off or consolidating them. Debt consolidation is basically getting another business loan to pay off debts. The new loan should ideally cover all existing debts while having a lower interest rate.
Stay Informed About Lending Criteria
Different lenders have different criteria for business loans. Research the specific requirements of the lenders you are interested in to ensure your business meets their criteria. Economic conditions can also affect lending practices, so staying informed about the broader market can help you time your loan application effectively.
Seek Professional Advice
A finance broker specialising in business loans can help match you with the right lenders and streamline the application process. They can also help you secure the best terms and get approval within the timeline you need.
Talk to an expert at Dark Horse Financial.
Options for Unique Business Situations
Many lenders share the same requirements and criteria when it comes to business loans. However, not all business owners can meet these requirements. Businesses can be in situations that make them ineligible for loans at established institutions like banks. The good news is that there are choices out there for different circumstances, whether a business had a previous default or if they lack certain documents. Here are some scenarios and what avenues businesses can take should they need a loan:
What If I Have Bad Credit?
Bad credit can be a significant hurdle in securing a business loan from traditional banks. However, many non-bank lenders work with business owners with less-than-perfect credit. These lenders often consider factors beyond your credit score, such as your general capacity to repay the loan and your business’s cash flow. A bad credit business loan usually comes with higher rates and less favourable terms, but these options can provide the necessary capital to help your business move forward.
What If I Don’t Have Financials and Other Documents?
For businesses that lack complete financial documentation, low-doc or no-doc loans can be a viable option. These loans typically require little to no documentation, making them ideal for certain businesses, like startups. While interest rates may be higher than those of traditional loans, they offer financing for business owners who may not have up-to-date financials.
What If My Business Is New and Lacks a Financial Track Record?
For startups and new businesses without an established financial history, securing a loan can be challenging. However, there are options specifically designed for new businesses. New business owners can also get funding if they have personal property they are willing to use to secure a loan. Angel investors or venture capitalists could also be potential sources of funding, offering capital in exchange for equity.
What If I Have Been Rejected By a Bank Already?
Being rejected by a bank for a loan isn’t the end of the road. Many non-bank and private lenders are willing to assess your application based on different criteria. They may be more lenient regarding credit scores and financial history. To improve your chances you can seek guidance from a financial expert to gain valuable insights into getting a successful loan approval.
What if I Defaulted on a Loan Before?
A past loan default can impact your ability to secure financing, but it doesn’t necessarily disqualify you. Some lenders extend funding to businesses recovering from past financial difficulties. These lenders typically assess your current business performance, cash flow, and the reasons behind the previous default. It is also crucial that you no longer have any unpaid defaults at the time of your application.
What if I Have Outstanding Tax Debt with the ATO?
Outstanding tax debt can complicate loan applications, but business owners definitely have options. Some lenders don’t look at tax debt and can still approve your application. Some lenders will also consider your application if you can demonstrate that you’re consistently repaying your tax debt. If you’re struggling to repay debt with the ATO, it’s also worth considering getting a tax debt loan.
In Summary
Qualifying for a business loan in Australia may seem intimidating, especially if your business is a startup or if you don’t meet some of the usual lending requirements. However, there are ways to improve your chances of approval, such as paying down or consolidating existing debts, improving your credit score, and seeking professional help.
It’s crucial to remember that each lender and loan product has its own specific requirements, so you should do your research and compare options to find the best fit for your business needs.
If your business has issues like previous defaults or bad credit, it’s not the end of the world. Other lenders beyond traditional banks are willing to provide funding for all types of businesses.
Find Out if You’re Qualified for a Business Loan
We can help you assess your eligibility and pair you with the right lenders and loan products.
