What 40+ Lenders Taught Us About Getting Approved Fast

When you’ve worked with over 40 lenders across Australia, from major banks to boutique equipment finance specialists, you start to see patterns. Some applications fly through with same-day approvals. Others drag for weeks, even with strong financials. 

At Thrift Capital, we’ve made it our mission to understand how each lender works, what they prioritise, and how to position our clients for the fastest possible approvals. If you're in the market for business equipment financing, vehicle loans, or working capital, here’s what we’ve learned about getting to “yes” faster, smarter, and with fewer headaches. 

Lenders Love Clarity 

The single biggest differentiator between a fast approval and a long wait is clarity. 

Lenders don’t have time to chase missing documents or guess at the purpose of your loan. They respond best to well-organised submissions that clearly explain: 

• Who you are 

• What your business does 

• How much you need 

• Why you need it 

• How you’ll repay it 

Clarity builds trust. It shows you understand your business and are serious about your loan request. 

Tip: Before submitting, have an equipment finance broker review your application. At Thrift Capital, we do this with every client, often cutting days off the turnaround time. 

Fast Approval Starts With the Right Lender 

Each lender has its own appetite. 

Some specialise in low-doc equipment finance for business owners with ABNs. Others want full tax returns, BAS statements, and multiple years of trading. Some welcome startups and sole traders, while others prefer businesses with property backing. 

If your application goes to the wrong lender, you’re not just wasting time—you could also be damaging your future lending prospects. 

At Thrift Capital, we match your profile and asset type with lenders who: 

• Specialise in your industry (transport, construction, trade, hospitality) 

• Are actively approving applications in the current market 

• Offer the most flexibility on documentation requirements 

It’s not about the cheapest rate on paper. It’s about choosing the lender most likely to approve you fast. 

Documentation: Less Can Be More 

While full-doc lending is still the gold standard, many lenders now offer low-doc and alternative equipment financing solutions, especially for vehicles, machinery, and business equipment. 

If you have: 

• A valid ABN 

• Clean business bank statements (3–6 months) 

• Good personal ID 

…you can often be approved without full financials. 

This is ideal for: 

• Owner-operators without updated tax filings 

• Fast-moving purchases like trucks or excavators 

• New businesses with short trading histories but strong turnover 

Bank Statements Reveal More Than You Think 

Lenders don’t just look at income—they look at how you manage it. Your statements tell a story: 

• Is your revenue consistent? 

• Do you maintain healthy balances after expenses? 

• Are there frequent dishonours or overdrafts? 

• Do you transfer funds responsibly? 

Clean statements can sometimes outweigh weak financials, and they often support higher borrowing limits without extra collateral. 

Speed Comes From Decision Makers, Not Just Documents 

Many banks operate under rigid processes. Even with the right paperwork, your application may sit untouched for days. 

Working with a broker gives you access to underwriters and credit teams who prioritise broker-submitted files. At Thrift Capital, we don’t just submit and wait—we follow up, escalate when needed, and secure real-time feedback. 

That’s why many of our clients secure equipment finance for business in under 48 hours. 

Final Word: Fast Doesn’t Mean Rushed 

Speed matters, but not at the cost of smart financing. 

Getting approved fast means: 

• Choosing the right lender 

• Packaging the deal correctly 

• Submitting clean documents 

• Working with an equipment finance broker who understands the system 

That’s what 40+ lenders have taught us. 

When you’re ready for smarter, faster equipment financing, we’re here to help. Use our equipment finance calculator to explore repayment options, then talk to a Thrift Capital broker about the best strategy for your business. 

Low-Doc Car Loans: How ABN Holders Get Approved Without the Paperwork Headache

Running a business is already a full-time job, especially when you’re self-employed or starting out with a new ABN. The last thing you need is endless paperwork just to access the finance that helps you grow. 

That’s where low doc car finance comes in. 

It’s designed for people just like you: ambitious, cashflow positive, but without years of tax returns or accountant-prepared statements. With the right approach, you can secure a low doc car loan and keep your business moving without unnecessary delays. 

In this guide, we’ll break down how low doc loans work, what makes them different, and how ABN holders across transport, construction, and trade are using them to finance vehicles and equipment faster, with less stress. 

What Is a Low Doc Car Loan — and Who Is It For? 

A low doc car loan (short for low documentation loan) is tailored for businesses and self-employed operators who may not have access to full financials. It’s a practical solution for: 

• Newly registered ABNs 

• Self-employed tradies and truck drivers 

• Small business owners managing week-to-week cashflow 

Instead of demanding years of financial statements, lenders look at what matters most: recent bank activity, consistent income, and how the car or asset will support your business. 

If you need to finance a ute, van, or company vehicle, a low doc business car loan can be one of the fastest ways to get approved. 

Why Traditional Banks Don’t Always Work for ABN Holders 

Walking into a bank with a new ABN and no tax returns usually leads to rejection or long delays. That’s not because your business lacks potential—it’s because banks follow strict policies that don’t allow flexibility for newer operators. 

Low doc lenders take a different approach. Instead of requiring years of paperwork, they may approve low doc car loans based on: 

• Recent business bank statements 

• Invoices or contracts showing active work 

• ABN registration details 

This means you don’t have to wait years before upgrading your work vehicle. 

What Documents Do You Need for Low Doc Car Finance? 

While requirements vary, most low doc car finance applications ask for: 

• An active ABN and business registration 

• 3–6 months of bank statements 

• Personal identification (driver’s licence or passport) 

• A clear loan purpose (such as purchasing a work ute, van, or company car) 

That’s often all it takes. Lenders focus on your ability to generate income and make repayments, not whether you’ve completed two tax returns. 

Why Low Doc Doesn’t Mean Low Quality 

Some think low doc business car loans are risky or expensive. The reality is that, when structured correctly, they can be one of the smartest finance options available. 

Clients use low doc car loans to: 

• Buy a new ute or van for contracting work 

• Upgrade from a personal vehicle to a business car 

• Expand fleets for delivery or trade services 

• Finance business cars without tying up cash reserves 

And unlike bank loans, which can drag for weeks, low doc car finance approvals often happen within 24–72 hours. 

Why Brokers Make All the Difference 

The key to success with low doc business car loans is choosing the right lender. That’s where an experienced broker like Thrift Capital comes in. 

We don’t just submit your application and wait. We: 

• Match your profile to lenders who understand your industry 

• Strengthen your application even with limited documents 

• Negotiate better rates and terms for your low doc car loan 

• Manage the process from start to settlement for faster results 

It’s why so many ABN holders across transport, construction, and small business choose us for low doc car finance. 

Why Using a Broker Can Save You Time (and Money) vs. Going Straight to the Bank

When you’re running a business in the transport, construction, or trades industry, getting finance quickly can be the difference between winning a contract or missing out. 

Many business owners naturally turn to their bank for loans. But banks are no longer the only, or even the best, option for asset finance, equipment purchases, or cashflow support. 

A trusted finance broker like Thrift Capital helps you cut through delays, navigate lender requirements, and secure better results—especially if you’re self-employed, ABN-only, or don’t have years of financials. 

Banks Are Slow. Brokers Are Strategic. 

Banks are heavily regulated, risk-averse, and designed for customers with long-standing financial records. If you’re a new ABN holder, a subcontractor, or had a tough tax year, your application could sit in limbo for weeks before being declined. 

Brokers work across a panel of lenders with different appetites, including those who: 

• Accept low-doc or alt-doc applications 

• Consider new ABNs with 6–12 months of trading 

• Offer flexible structures like chattel mortgages and balloon options 

• Understand industry-specific needs for trucks, trailers, machinery, and trade tools 

Instead of forcing you into a generic loan, we match you with a lender that suits your business. 

Real-World Example 

A construction client with an 8-month-old ABN needed to finance a second-hand excavator for a job he had just won. His bank required two years of financials. We secured approval in 48 hours using only his ABN, 6 months of bank statements, and the equipment invoice. 

That’s the advantage of broker-led finance. 

Save Time: One Application, Multiple Options 

Applying with multiple banks means multiple credit checks, which can harm your score. With a broker, we assess your situation once and only submit to lenders that are a good fit. 

At Thrift Capital, we: 

1. Assess your business needs and financials 

1. Match your profile with the right lender 

1. Package your application professionally to reduce back-and-forth 

1. Negotiate for better rates and terms 

1. Manage the process for a faster turnaround 

We don’t just tick boxes—we tell your story in a way lenders understand. 

Save Money: Better Deals, Better Structure 

Many believe brokers cost more. In reality, brokers can help you save by: 

• Knowing which lenders are offering rate specials 

• Structuring loans with balloon payments or GST-inclusive finance to reduce upfront costs 

• Avoiding unnecessary add-ons or unsuitable bank products 

• Looking at the total cost of ownership, not just weekly repayments 

The “lowest rate” is not always the best deal if it comes with strict conditions or long approval delays. 

Protect Your Credit Score 

Every loan application leaves an enquiry on your credit file. Multiple applications, especially rejections, can damage your score. 

Brokers protect your credit by checking eligibility first and only lodging when the chances of approval are strong. This is especially valuable when you need fast approvals for time-sensitive purchases like trucks or trailers for new contracts. 

More Than a Loan: A Finance Partner 

A bank offers you a product. A broker offers you a strategy. 

At Thrift Capital, we look beyond the loan in front of you. We work with clients long-term, helping with refinancing older debt, consolidating tax obligations, and leveraging asset finance for growth. Our goal is to make sure your finance supports your business strategy, not just today, but for years to come. 

Who We Help 

• New ABN holders financing their first truck or ute 

• Owner-operators expanding fleets or upgrading gear 

• Contractors and tradies with non-traditional income 

• Businesses managing ATO debt or cashflow pressures 

• Time-poor operators who can’t wait months for a bank decision 

Final Thoughts 

If speed, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness matter to your business, a broker is not just convenient—it’s a competitive advantage. 

At Thrift Capital, we help you move fast, protect your credit, and secure finance that works in the real world. Whether you need truck finance, equipment finance, machinery finance, or low doc equipment loans, our brokers know the lenders who can help. 

Let us guide you to smarter approvals, so you can focus on running your business. 

The Fast-Track Guide to Finance for ABN Holders

If you’ve got an ABN, you’re closer to approval than you think. 

When you’re self-employed or running a small business, timing is everything. Opportunities don’t wait for your second tax return, and cashflow doesn’t always run smoothly. Knowing your finance options as an ABN holder can make the difference between standing still and moving forward. 

At Thrift Capital, we speak with ABN holders every day, from delivery drivers and tradespeople to café owners and contractors, who are unsure if they qualify for finance. The good news? You often can, and much faster than you’d expect. 

This guide explains how ABN finance works, what lenders really want to see, and how to fast-track your approval without the delays and red tape of a bank. 

What Does Having an ABN Mean for Finance? 

An active ABN signals to lenders that you’re operating as a business, and that opens doors. 

Whether you’re financing a truck, van, equipment, or just need working capital, your ABN gives lenders a foundation to work with. If the loan supports a business-related asset, your chances of approval improve even further. 

Today, lenders no longer demand years of financial statements, especially for asset-backed lending like truck finance, equipment finance, or machinery loans. Many offer low doc equipment loans designed specifically for ABN holders, making it easier to get approved. 

What Can You Finance With an ABN? 

If you have an ABN and can show some recent business activity, even just the last few months, you may qualify for: 

• Truck & Trailer Finance for freight operators, delivery drivers, or fleet upgrades 

• Machinery & Equipment Loans for construction, trades, landscaping, or light industry 

• Van & Ute Finance for mobile service providers and tradies 

• Restaurant and Fit-Out Loans covering kitchens, furniture, and POS systems 

• Working Capital Loans to smooth out cashflow or fund growth 

These aren’t hypotheticals. They are real approvals happening daily for ABN holders across transport, construction, and small business. 

What If My ABN Is New? 

Many think a new ABN means no chance of approval. That’s not true. 

Some lenders prefer 12 or more months of trading, but plenty will consider as little as 6 months, especially if you’re financing an asset tied to your income. 

For example, we helped a courier with a 7-month ABN secure finance on a Pantech Isuzu truck for $300 per week using only bank statements, ID, and the invoice. No tax return required. 

What Lenders Really Look For 

Even without full financials, lenders can still gauge your eligibility through: 

• Business Bank Statements – proof of consistent income and cashflow 

• GST Registration – optional, but a signal your turnover exceeds $75K 

• Clear Loan Purpose – approvals are stronger when the asset funds business income 

• Asset Security – loans backed by trucks, utes, or machinery carry less risk and may offer better rates 

Why Work With a Broker Instead of a Bank? 

Applying directly with banks or multiple lenders can backfire. Each declined application leaves a mark on your credit file and reduces future approval chances. 

That’s why working with a broker is smarter. At Thrift Capital, we don’t scatter applications and hope for the best. We match you with the lender most likely to approve you based on your industry, ABN history, and business needs. 

We know which lenders accept new ABNs, who requires GST, and who offers the best structures. From balloon payments to low weekly repayments, we package your deal so it works for your business. 

Real-World ABN Approvals 

• A contractor with 8 months of activity had an excavator loan approved in 2 days 

• A tradie upgraded his ute with only an ABN and 6 months of bank statements 

• A restaurant owner secured $40K for a fit-out based on invoices and turnover projections 

These outcomes are possible because we know how to position ABN holders with the right lenders. 

You’re Closer to Finance Than You Think 

If you’re running your business with an ABN, there’s likely a pathway to finance right now. Whether it’s truck finance, equipment loans, machinery finance, or working capital, you don’t need to wait two years for tax returns. 

At Thrift Capital, we’ll show you what’s possible today, based on the business activity you already have. 

How to Get Finance Approved Without Years of Financials

Getting started in business shouldn’t mean getting stuck with finance. 

Starting Fresh? You Don’t Need Years of Paperwork to Move Forward 

One of the biggest misconceptions in commercial finance is that you need years of financials, multiple tax returns, accountant-prepared statements, and a long trading history to get approved for a business loan. 

This simply isn’t true. 

At Thrift Capital, we work with self-employed operators, sole traders, and small business owners every day. Many are just getting started or don’t have traditional paperwork in place. Whether you’re applying with a new ABN, growing a cash-based business, or still waiting on your first full tax return, we can help you secure the funding you need with a smarter, more flexible approach. 

Why Traditional Financials Aren’t Always the Standard Anymore 

Lenders today understand that the business landscape has shifted. More Australians are turning to self-employment, launching startups, or working as contractors, and many of these businesses don’t have lengthy financial histories. 

In response, an increasing number of lenders now offer low-doc equipment loans and alternative-documentation finance options. These allow you to apply using more accessible forms of evidence, such as: 

• Business bank statements (typically 6–12 months) 

• ABN registration confirmation 

• BAS statements (last 2 quarters) 

• Invoices or quotes for the asset being financed 

These solutions are especially common in truck finance, equipment finance, and machinery finance where the asset itself provides added security for the lender. 

What Really Matters to Lenders (When You Don’t Have Full Financials) 

If you don’t have formal tax returns or accountant-prepared financials, lenders will focus on other indicators that show repayment ability and business stability: 

1. Bank Statement Activity 

Lenders assess cash flow over the past 6–12 months. They want to see consistent income, responsible spending, and the ability to manage regular loan repayments. 

2. ABN History 

Some lenders prefer an ABN active for at least 12 months, but others will consider businesses with as little as 6 months of trading, especially if you have industry experience or active contracts. 

3. GST Registration 

Being registered for GST signals an annual turnover above $75K, which reassures lenders of your business activity. 

4. Loan Purpose and Asset Type 

Funding a truck, ute, trailer, or machinery used for work is considered lower risk compared to unrelated purchases. A clear loan purpose strengthens your application. 

Real-World Approvals Without Full Financials 

We’ve helped clients across industries secure funding with minimal paperwork: 

• Truck finance for owner-operators with less than 12 months trading history, enabling them to expand into freight contracts. 

• Low-doc equipment loans for tradies and contractors financing utes, excavators, and tools using only bank statements and ABN proof. 

• Machinery finance and fit-out funding for hospitality startups, approved based on projected turnover and 6 months of revenue history. 

The key is knowing which lenders accept alternative documents and how to structure your application effectively. 

Why Using a Broker Like Thrift Capital Makes the Difference 

Submitting a finance application without the right strategy can harm your credit file. Every declined application leaves a mark, and repeated rejections reduce your options. 

At Thrift Capital, we protect your chances of approval by: 

• Assessing eligibility before submitting any application. 

• Matching you with lenders who support new businesses and flexible documentation. 

• Guiding you on document preparation so nothing important gets missed. 

• Structuring repayments and balloon options to suit your cash flow. 

We specialise in truck finance, equipment loans, machinery finance, and business fit-outs. If you’re in transport, construction, trade, or hospitality, we know the lenders who understand your industry and your challenges. 

You’re More Finance-Ready Than You Think 

Waiting until you have years of paperwork could mean missing opportunities right now. 

At Thrift Capital, we look at the business activity you already have and tailor a finance pathway that works. You may be surprised at what you’re eligible for today. 

Ready to Take the Next Step? 

Speak with a Thrift Capital broker today and discover how you can get approved for truck finance, equipment loans, and machinery finance without the wait, the red tape, or the guesswork. 

New ABN? How to Get Approved Even If You’re Just Starting

Starting a business is a bold move—and one that often requires funding early on, especially if you’re purchasing vehicles, equipment, or preparing for a contract. But if you’ve only just registered your ABN, you might be wondering: 

Can I even get finance this early? 

The short answer: Yes, you can. While some lenders still favour businesses with 12 months of trading history, many now offer finance solutions specifically for new ABNs, startups, and sole traders—especially when your application is structured properly. 

This guide breaks down how finance works when you’re just getting started, what lenders actually look for, and how Thrift Capital helps you improve your chances of fast approval—even in your first weeks of trading. 

---

The Misconception: “I Need 12 Months in Business to Qualify” 

This is one of the most common myths we hear.

While it’s true that major banks usually want to see trading history, this isn’t the case across the board. In fact, Australia’s non-bank and specialist lenders are increasingly offering products built specifically for early-stage businesses, many with no minimum ABN age requirements. 

That means if you’ve just registered your ABN—whether as a tradie going out on your own, a side hustler formalising your business, or a company director launching a new venture—you can still qualify for funding with the right lender and the right documentation. 

---

What Lenders Look for When There’s No Trading History 

When you don’t have BAS statements or financials to show, lenders shift their attention to other key areas: 

• Your personal credit profile. This becomes your main credibility indicator. A good score shows reliability, especially for low-doc or unsecured loans. 

• Your industry experience. If you’ve been working in the field—even as an employee—lenders view you as “low risk” despite the new ABN. 

• The asset you’re financing. Tangible assets like vehicles or machinery often make approvals easier, especially if they hold resale value. 

• The loan purpose. If you can show what the funds will be used for—via quotes, invoices, or a supplier proposal—that helps lenders gain confidence in your plan. 

• Supporting documentation. Items like your driver’s license, ABN certificate, past payslips, or a simple business plan can help complete the picture. 

It’s less about being a “fully established” business and more about demonstrating that you’re serious, stable, and ready to generate income. 

---

What Finance Can a New ABN Access? 

You might be surprised by what’s available. 

Vehicle finance, for example, is commonly approved for new ABNs—particularly for utes, vans, or work vehicles. So is equipment finance for tradies, creatives, or professionals buying tools or machinery.

Other lenders may offer unsecured business loans, especially if you have payslips or contract agreements that show your ability to repay. There are even low-doc and no-doc loans tailored to sole traders and directors starting fresh. 

And while your interest rate may be slightly higher than an established business, the key benefit is access: you get the asset now, build credit, and refinance later at better terms.

---

How Thrift Capital Makes It Easier 

As brokers, we act as your bridge to lenders who are open to working with new ABNs.

We know which lenders are comfortable with minimal trading history, and we help you: 

• Avoid unnecessary paperwork (no one-size-fits-all applications here) 

• Show your strengths, whether it’s experience, credit, or clear purpose 

• Get matched with the right lender from our diverse panel 

• Fast-track approvals, with many clients approved within 48 hours 

We’ve helped dozens of new ABN holders get funded—some within a week of registering their business. 

---

Real-World Example

Recently, we assisted a carpenter from Western Sydney who had just gone out on his own. He registered his ABN two weeks prior and needed $38,000 to buy a ute and trailer setup. 

He had no trading history—but he had: 

• 12+ years’ experience in construction 

• A clean personal credit record 

• A vehicle quote ready to go 

We matched him with a flexible lender that supports new ABNs in the trades. He was approved within 48 hours—no BAS, no tax returns, just smart structuring. 

---

Final Thoughts: It’s Not Too Early—It’s Just a Different Path 

Starting a business is a leap. And while funding a new ABN isn’t always as simple as ticking a box, it’s absolutely achievable with the right approach. 

Whether you’re applying as a sole trader, company director, or trust, we’ll help you understand what’s needed and guide you through every step—without delay or confusion. 

---

Ready to Apply? 

Checkout our Pre-Approval Checklist to see what documents you might need 

Or speak with a Thrift Capital broker to find out what your options are today 

You don’t need to wait 12 months. You just need someone who knows how to help you get started. 

How to Get Approved Fast: What Lenders Look For and Why the Right Match Matters

When it comes to business finance, getting approved quickly isn’t just about completing an application—it’s about understanding how the system works. At Thrift Capital, we don’t just help you apply; we help you get approved—fast. 

The key? Matching the right lender to your industry, understanding approval timelines, and knowing exactly what lenders are looking for. 

---

Here’s what every business owner should know to move from enquiry to “approved” with confidence. 

1. Matching Lenders to Your Industry Matters More Than You Think 

Not all lenders are the same—and neither are businesses. 

Each industry has unique financial needs, cash flow cycles, and risk profiles. That’s why one of the most valuable things a broker can do is match you with a lender who understands your space. 

Here’s how it works: 

• Transport & Logistics
  Lenders familiar with this sector offer fast approvals, flexible repayments, and often accept second-hand vehicles—because they understand that time is money. 

• Construction & Trades
  Seasonal cash flow and balloon repayments are common. Lenders experienced with asset-heavy businesses are best suited here. 

• Medical & Allied Health
  Lenders that finance high-value medical equipment with longer terms and industry-specific criteria are ideal for clinics, dental practices, and wellness providers. 

Why this matters: 

The wrong lender could slow your approval—or deny your application altogether. The right one could fund your asset within 24 hours. That’s the power of tailored finance.

2. Why Some Lenders Approve Faster Than Others 

Ever wonder why some lenders give you an answer in hours, while others take weeks? 

Here’s what makes the difference: 

• Lender Type
  Traditional banks often require full-doc applications and lengthy internal reviews. 
  Non-bank lenders are typically more agile, offering low-doc and ABN-only options with quicker turnaround times. 

• Broker Involvement
  A broker who understands lender preferences can submit your application in the right format—streamlining the process and saving valuable time. 

• Your Application
  Clean, complete documentation significantly speeds up decisions. Missing details are one of the most common causes of delay.

Tip: 
Want to move fast? Talk to a broker before submitting your application. It could save you days. 

3. What Lenders Actually Look For in Your Application 

It’s not just about your credit score. Lenders take a holistic view when assessing applications.

Key factors include: 

• ABN Age and Activity
  Even low-doc lenders want to see how long you’ve been trading. While longer histories are preferred, approvals are still possible for newer businesses—with the right lender. 

• Income and Cash Flow
  Whether you provide bank statements or verified financials, lenders need to see that your business can comfortably service the loan. 

• The Asset

  The condition, age, and value of the asset you’re financing matters. New or well-maintained second-hand equipment is typically easier to fund—and often secures better terms. 

• Supporting Documents
  “Low-doc” doesn’t mean “no-doc.” Having ID, ABN details, recent bank statements, or a tax invoice ready makes a smoother process for both broker and lender. 

---

The Thrift Capital Advantage 

At Thrift Capital, we don’t just submit applications—we set you up for success. Our team: 

• Understands your industry and funding needs 

• Matches you with the right lender 

• Professionally packages your application 

• Fast-tracks submissions to key decision-makers 

With access to over 40 banks and non-bank lenders, we know how to find the best path—whether you’re a startup tradie, an experienced fleet operator, or a growing medical practice. 

---

Need Fast Finance? Here’s What to Do Next 

If you’re planning to buy equipment, finance a vehicle, or need a working capital boost—don’t do it alone. 

The right match, lender, and process can mean the difference between two weeks and 24 hours. 

Speak to a Thrift Capital broker today.