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Business finance, laid out properly
Different products solve different problems. Compare the cost, security, timing and tradeoffs before choosing a lender.
Start with the purpose and repayment source, then compare every written quote using the same loan amount and term before applying.
Most business owners get told to “shop around” for finance, which sounds sensible until you realise how messy the loan market actually is. At SMB Loan, we’ve pulled the available business loan types in Australia into one place, then broken out a dedicated section for each one so you can compare them properly. That includes the upside and the tradeoffs, because a loan that looks flexible at first glance can get expensive or restrictive once you read the fine print. The catch is that there isn’t one best option for every business. Cash flow, time in business, security, industry, and how quickly you need funds all change the equation, sometimes by a lot. That’s why you should still do your own research, even with a comparison guide in front of you, and look closely at what each loan type actually offers before signing anything.
Australian Business Loan Comparison
Compare business financing solutions tailored to your needs
Working Capital Finance
Unsecured
Term Length 1 to 24 months
Maximum Amount Up to $35,000
Rate 1.75% p/m
Quick Access Flexible Use No Security
Business Line of Credit
Unsecured
Term Length3 to 12 months
Maximum AmountUp to $50,000
Interest Rate14%-30%
Revolving Credit Flexible Draws Pay as You Use
Asset Finance
Secured
Term Length1 to 7 years
Maximum AmountUp to $100,000
Interest Rate1.6%-15%
Asset Secured Competitive Rates Tax Benefits
Equipment Finance
Secured by Equipment
Term Length1 to 5 years
Maximum AmountUp to $75,000
Interest Rate6%-15%
Equipment SecurityFixed RatesTax Deductible
Invoice Finance
Secured by Invoices
Term Length3 to 180 days
Maximum AmountUp to $10,000
Fee Range3%-5%
Fast FundingLow RatesInvoice Based
Business Overdraft
Unsecured
Term LengthOngoing
Maximum AmountVaries
Interest Rate14%-25%
Flexible AccessPay as You UseQuick Setup
Unsecured Business Finance
Unsecured
Term Length3 to 24 months
Maximum AmountUp to $50,000
Interest RateFrom 14%
No SecurityFast ApprovalFlexible Terms
Business Car Loans
Secured by Vehicle
Term Length1 to 7 years
Maximum AmountBased on Vehicle
Interest RateFrom 4.99%
Vehicle SecurityTax BenefitsFixed Rates
Construction Loans
Property Secured
Term LengthUp to 30 years
Maximum AmountProject Based
Interest RateFrom 4.5%
Progress PaymentsProperty SecurityFlexible Terms
Fit Out Finance
Asset Secured
Term Length1 to 5 years
Maximum AmountProject Based
Interest RateFrom 6%
Customised TermsTax DeductibleFlexible Funding
Commercial Bridging Loan
Property Secured
Term Length1 to 12 months
Maximum AmountUp to 75% LVR
Interest RateFrom 5.99%
Short TermQuick SettlementProperty Backed
Caveat & Mortgage Loans
Property Secured
Term Length1 to 30 years
Maximum AmountUp to 80% LVR
Interest RateFrom 4.99%
Property SecurityCompetitive RatesFlexible Terms
Low Doc Business Loans
Minimal Documentation
Term Length1 to 5 years
Maximum AmountUp to $500,000
Interest RateFrom 8.99%
Minimal DocsQuick ApprovalFlexible Terms
Startup Financing
Various Options
Term LengthVaries
Maximum AmountUp to $250,000
Interest RateFrom 12%
Startup FriendlyMultiple OptionsGrowth Focused
Bad Credit Business Loans
Credit Flexible
Term Length3 to 24 months
Maximum AmountUp to $25,000
Interest RateFrom 16%
Bad Credit OKFast ApprovalFlexible Terms
SME Gov Loans & Grants
Government Backed
Term LengthVaries
Maximum AmountProgram Specific
Interest Rate0%-5%
Government SupportLow RatesLong Terms
Business Purchase Finance
Business Assets Secured
Term LengthUp to 10 years
Maximum AmountBusiness Dependent
Interest RateFrom 6.99%
Business PurchaseStructured TermsExpert Support
Best Small Business Lenders in Australia
Our editorial staff have picked the best small business loan options for Australian SMEs in 2026. These award-winning lenders have been recognised for their excellence across various categories.
Best Overall
Lend.com.au
Recognised for its smart algorithmic matching with 70+ different Australian lenders, providing a wide range of options with a fast, tailored matching process.
Best for Bad Credit
Bizcap
Chosen as Australia's most open minded lender, making it ideal for borrowers with credit challenges.
Biggest SME Lender
Prospa
Australia's largest online SME lender, an ASX-listed company that has funded over 28,000 businesses.
Global Brand
OnDeck
A global brand in business lending with a strong Australian presence and international awards.
Best Line of Credit
Lumi
Specialist in business lines of credit with high approval rates and quick funding up to $300k.
Best Innovation
Butn
An innovative buy now, pay later model for businesses, allowing them to fund invoices and purchases on the spot.
Industry Veteran
Capify
Pioneer in online business lending with 20+ years experience, Australia's first online SME lender.
Best Range
Shift (GetCapital)
A comprehensive suite of financing solutions rivalling those of traditional banks, delivered at the speed of an online lender.
Best for Startups
Max Funding
No minimum trading time or revenue required, ideal for startups yet to generate revenue.
Top Satisfaction
Business Fuel
98% of borrowers rated excellent or great, outstanding satisfaction with 24-hour funding.
Invoice & Asset
ScotPac
Leading non-bank provider of invoice financing and asset loans since 1988.
Best Broker
Trade Funding
Connects businesses with 80+ lenders across 22+ product types with transparent comparisons.
Eligibility for an Unsecured Business Loan in Australia
While many business owners hope to find a ‘bad credit guaranteed approval loan’, lenders still need evidence that the business can repay the borrowing, particularly when the loan is unsecured. The table below compares the eligibility criteria of four leading Australian lenders.
Prospa | OnDeck | Shift | Lumi | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  | | | |
Min. Time Trading | 6 months | 12 months | 24 months | 6 months |
Min. Turnover | $72,000 p/a | $100,000 p/a | $250,000 p/a | $50,000 p/a |
Sole Traders | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Startups | ✖ | ✖ | ✖ | ✖ |
Bad Credit | Yes, if the borrower can demonstrate profitability | Yes (min credit score 500) | ✖ | Yes (min credit score 350) |
Lender Review |
To learn more about how Australia's online lenders stack up against each other, view our side-by-side comparison where we compare small business loan companies by product offering, credibility, compatibility, customer reviews and cost.
Loan Terms
Funding Size | Lending Terms | Security Required | |
|---|---|---|---|
Short Term Loans | $2,000 - $30,000 | 1 - 36 months | Secured or Unsecured |
Bad Credit Loans | $2,000 - $50,000 | 1 - 36 months | Vehicle or Property |
Caveat Loans | $10,000 - $50,000 | 1 - 36 months | Real Estate Property (mortgage OK) |
Second Mortgage Loans | $200,000 - $1,000,000 | 1 - 36 months | Real Estate Property (mortgage OK) |
Low Doc Business Loans | $500,000 - $1,000,000 | 1 - 36 months | Real Estate Property (mortgage OK) |
Fast Business Loans | $2,000 - $10,000 | 1 - 24 months | Vehicle or Property |
Unsecured Business Loans | $2,000 - $30,000 | 1 - 12 months | None |
Franchise Loans | $3,000 - $1,000,000 | 1 - 36 months | Real Estate Property (mortgage OK) |
Equity Business Loans | $20,000 - $1,000,000 | 1 - 36 months | Real Estate Property (mortgage OK) |
When to use Dedicated Small Business Lenders vs Banks?
Bottom Line: Online SME Loans vs Banks
Use an online small business lender in Australia if:
- You need funding urgently and want access within days or hours
- You are unable to obtain a business loan from a bank
- You don't want excessive paperwork and hurdles
- You need money for only a short period of time
- You're looking for unsecured financing options
- You want innovative financing solutions
- You're looking for a greater chance of being approved
Use an Australian small business bank loan if:
- You are an established business that qualifies for a bank loan
- You are able to complete all the necessary paperwork
- You're happy to wait weeks or months for approval
- You can provide the necessary security
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SmallBusinessLoansAustralia?
SmallBusinessLoansAustralia is Australia's go-to guide for small business financing, offering a unique tool to search across 70+ lenders for business loans in Australia. Powered by Lend™ technology, our platform provides a fast, seamless online process to help secure the right business finance.
How does the SmallBusinessLoansAustralia loan finder tool work?
The loan finder tool integrates with over 70 leading lenders in Australia, ranging from banks to online alternative lenders. By filling out one application, you get matched with suitable lenders based on your business information, funding needs and any security you can offer.
What types of loans can I find using SmallBusinessLoansAustralia?
You can find various loan types, including unsecured business loans, bad credit business loans, business lines of credit, working capital finance, business overdrafts, secured business loans, and more.
Is the application process entirely online?
The matchmaking process is completed entirely online. You can apply in minutes without the hassle of manual processes or excessive paperwork. Once matched with a lender, they'll call you to discuss financing opportunities.
How long does it take to get a loan offer?
Once you submit your application, you're matched with the most appropriate lender within minutes. If one lender declines your application, you’re automatically matched with the next best-suited lender.
Will applying for a loan impact my credit score?
No, using our loan finder tool does not impact your credit score. Your score is only affected if you proceed with a formal application through the matched lender.
What information do I need to provide?
You will need to provide details about your business, financials, the amount you wish to borrow, the purpose of the loan, and any security you can offer.
Can startups apply for loans?
Yes, but the number of lenders you have access to will be reduced. Startup financing is one of many loan types offered by our lending partners.
What is the minimum trading period required?
The minimum trading period varies by lender. Some require as little as six months, while others may require up to 24 months.
Do you offer loans for businesses with bad credit?
Yes, we have options for businesses with bad credit. Lenders like Bizcap specialise in offering bad credit business loans.
What are the interest rates for business loans?
Interest rates vary depending on the type of business loan and the lender. Unsecured loans typically have higher rates, while secured loans offer lower rates.
What is the maximum loan amount I can apply for?
The maximum loan amount varies by lender and loan type, ranging from $5,000 to $1,000,000.
What is the typical loan term?
Loan terms vary but generally range from 3 months to 10 years depending on the loan type and lender.
Are there any fees associated with applying?
Some lenders may charge origination fees and other costs. These details will be provided during the application process.
Can I repay the loan early?
Yes, many lenders allow early repayment, often without any penalties. Confirm with your matched lender.
How do I know which loan is right for my business?
Our platform provides guidance and recommendations based on your information, plus resources and guides on different loan types.
Can I apply for multiple loans?
Yes, you may be able to receive multiple loan offers, but it's important to manage the amount of debt your business can handle.
What security is needed for a secured loan?
Security can include equipment, real estate, or other business assets. Specific requirements depend on the lender.
How do I get started?
Simply fill out the application form on our website. Provide your business and financial details, and you'll be matched with a suitable lender within minutes.
Proprietary Research & SME Surveys
SMB Loan is at the centre of small business finance insights. We conduct surveys and in depth research to amplify the voice of SMEs across Australia.
SMEs and New Fed Gov Incentives Harnessing AI in SMEs Business Novated Lease Improving Access to Capital FY2024 Borrowing Trends Industry Research Family Enterprise Report Top Business Blogs Australian SMEs 2023 Rates & Inflation 2024 Inflation Impact Survey Recession Strategy Cuts Late Customer Payments Areas of Overspending Business vs Personal Loans Electric Vehicles Startup Factors SME Trend Analysis IR Laws Impact Productivity Problem Impacts of AI