Startup Business Loans in Australia — 2025 Fast-Track Guide
Updated July 2025 · By Michael Pajar · 5 min read
Funding your next step shouldn’t feel like a second full-time job.
Borrow $10 k – $250 k
Approvals often land within 2 business days from submission
Guidance from a business finance broker
Check My Eligibility →
1. Why This Year Is a Sweet-Spot for New Ventures
Let’s be blunt: banks are still allergic to fresh ABNs. But 2025 has delivered three tailwinds you can ride instead of fighting a headwind:
Non-bank lenders are hungry. Specialist lenders are competing hard for early-stage deals, so limits keep creeping up while demand for startup business loans continue to increase.
Open banking and new technology. A secure six-month bank link now answers 80 % of a credit officer’s questions—cutting approvals from weeks to hours.
Equipment as collateral. If the gear holds resale value, lenders will happily take the asset—for larger loans. Vehicles, trucks, or trailers are usually the most sought out assets.
Heads-up: Once you cross about $100 k, most lenders still want at least one director that can offer property as security. Below that, revenue + a clean statement history usually does the trick
2. Are You Even “Fundable”? — Quick Reality Check
Pre-revenue and still earning PAYG income? Your best bet is special type of personal loan. Depending on your situation, you may be able to qualify for up to $75,000.
Pre-revenue and all-in on the business? A property-backed startup small business loan might be what you need. This is a full documentation application that requires at least a business plan, a forecast, your personal bank statements and assets & liabilities.
3–6 months trading & $10 k+ monthly turnover? You’re in the conversation for a low-doc unsecured facility—often up to $50 k.
6–12 months & $20 k+ turnover? Limits stretch to $150 k unsecured, or up to $250 k if you meet the lenders criteria.
12 months+ plus property on title? At this stage in business you’re no longer a startup, but you are still a new business—rates drop, options widen, paperwork requirement drops.
3. The Six Funding Paths That Actually Work
Startup business loan
Amounts: $20 k—$250 k
Term: 24 — 60 months
Uses: All startup costs
Startup personal loan
Amounts: $10 k — $74 k
Term: 24 — 84 months
Uses: Side hustle
Startup equipment loan
Amount: $10 k — $100 k
Term: 24 — 60 months
Uses: Buying asset to start business
Invoice finance
Amount: $10 k — $250 k
Term: 90 days
Uses: Advance any of your first clients
Low doc unsecured loan
Amount: $10 k — $100 k
Term: 18 — 36 months
Uses: For business trading 6 — 12 months
4. What Waiting Really Costs
Annual profit lost while that $120 k CNC sits in a catalogue: about $120 000
Total loan cost on the same machine (12 mths, 22 % p.a.): roughly $30 000
ROI: You’re four-times ahead by acting now—plus the machine is yours.
When you see the numbers side-by-side, hesitation becomes the expensive option.
Starting a new business is a thrilling journey. As a finance broker who’s worked with many startups, I understand both the excitement and the challenges that come with launching a new venture. Whether you’re just getting started or your business is a few months old, securing funding can be a crucial step to turning your vision into reality. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about startup loans, so you can find the right path to grow your business.
What is a Startup Loan?
A startup loan is a type of financing specifically designed for new businesses or early-stage companies. Unlike traditional business loans, startup loans focus on the unique needs of businesses in their infancy — from day one to even six months or more. These loans can provide the capital you need for essentials like equipment, inventory, marketing, and day-to-day operations.
Why Consider a Startup Loan?
Securing a loan as a startup can be challenging. Banks and traditional lenders often hesitate to lend to new businesses due to a lack of trading history. However, startup loans offer a valuable solution by focusing on the potential and growth plans of the business, rather than its current cash flow or assets. Here are a few reasons why a startup loan could be the right choice:
Cover Initial Costs: Many startups need funding to get off the ground, covering costs like supplies, rent, or initial advertising.
Support Early Growth: A startup loan can help you bring your ideas to life faster, allowing you to invest in areas that fuel early growth.
Build Business Credit: Establishing a credit history with a startup loan can make it easier to access future funding as your business grows.
Types of Startup Loans Available in Australia
There are several types of financing options available for startups in Australia. Each has its benefits, depending on your specific needs and eligibility:
1. Unsecured Business Loans
An unsecured business loan doesn’t require you to provide assets as collateral. This makes it a popular choice for startups that may not have assets to leverage. Instead, lenders focus on factors like your business plan, expected cash flow, and the strength of your startup’s vision.
2. Equipment Finance
If your business needs specific equipment, such as machinery or technology, equipment finance can be a great solution. This type of loan is secured by the equipment itself, making it less risky for lenders and often easier to obtain, even as a startup.
3. Invoice Financing
For startups already generating revenue but facing cash flow gaps, invoice financing allows you to borrow against unpaid invoices. This option is ideal for startups working with larger clients who may have longer payment terms.
4. Personal Loans for Business Use
In some cases, founders use personal loans to fund their startup. While this isn’t ideal for everyone, it can be a solution if you have a strong personal credit history and can’t secure traditional business financing.
Qualifying for a Startup Loan in Australia
The requirements for startup loans vary, but there are a few general criteria that most lenders look for:
Business Age: Some lenders, especially fintech companies, may require that your startup be operational for at least six months. This means that even if you’re not at day one but have been operating for a few months, you may still qualify.
Minimum Revenue: Many fintech lenders also require a minimum revenue, often around $10,000 per month. This demonstrates to lenders that your startup is capable of generating income.
Creditworthiness: For unsecured loans, your personal credit history can play a big role. Lenders want to see that you have a reliable history of repaying debt.
Business Plan: Some lenders may ask for a detailed business plan, especially if your startup doesn’t have a long trading history. A strong business plan can showcase your vision and growth potential.
How Fintech Lenders Are Changing the Game for Startups
Traditional banks aren’t always the best fit for startups, as they often require extensive trading history or substantial assets as collateral. Fortunately, fintech lenders have become an invaluable resource for startups in Australia. These modern finance providers typically have more flexible requirements and faster application processes, making it easier for early-stage businesses to access funding.
In particular, fintech lenders often work with businesses that are at least six months old and earning a minimum of $10,000 per month. This opens the door for startups that may not meet traditional lending standards but still have a promising future.
Tips for Securing a Startup Loan
Getting a startup loan can feel daunting, but there are a few tips to increase your chances of approval:
Organise Your Financials: Keep detailed records of any income, expenses, and projections. This will help demonstrate that you have a solid financial understanding of your business.
Build Your Credit: If you’re using an unsecured loan, your personal credit score will be important. A higher credit score can increase your chances of approval and may even get you better terms.
Create a Strong Business Plan: Lenders want to see that you have a clear direction for your business. A strong business plan with realistic growth projections can make a big difference in your application.
Consider Alternative Lenders: As mentioned, fintech lenders often offer more flexible options for startups. Don’t be afraid to explore online lenders if traditional banks aren’t the right fit.
Be Realistic with Your Loan Amount: Borrow only what you need and can reasonably repay. Lenders will look more favourably on applications with modest, realistic loan requests.
Final Notes
Startup loans can provide a valuable lifeline for new businesses, allowing you to build and grow with confidence. With options ranging from unsecured loans to specialised equipment finance, there’s a solution for nearly every need. By meeting the eligibility criteria, preparing a solid application, and considering both traditional and fintech lenders, you’re setting your startup up for success.
If you have questions or would like to learn more about finding the right loan for your startup, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you on your journey to building a successful business.
