From excavators to working capital, we match you with lenders who understand progress claim cycles, asset-backed lending, and the realities of running a construction business.
🔒 No credit score impact • No cost to you • ASIC Credit Rep #574070
Esteb and Co provides credit assistance services. We are licensed credit representatives (ASIC Credit Rep #574070) who help you compare loan options from our panel of lenders. We do not lend money directly. All loan approvals are made by lenders, subject to their criteria and responsible lending assessments. Our service is free to you - we receive commissions from lenders. Read our Credit Guide
Key requirements for construction business finance
| Requirement | Minimum | Ideal |
|---|---|---|
| ABN Active | 6 months | 2+ years |
| Annual Revenue | $75,000 | $500K+ |
| Credit Score | 500+ | 650+ |
| GST Registered | Preferred | Required for chattel mortgage |
| ATO Debt | Payment plan | Clear |
Don't meet all criteria? Options still exist. Asset finance is often available for newer businesses. Start your assessment — we'll find lenders that fit.
Compare construction finance options at a glance
| Product | Loan Size | Speed | Security | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚜 Equipment Finance | $20K – $2M+ | 24-48 hrs | Asset itself | Excavators, loaders, cranes, tools |
| 🚛 Vehicle Finance | $15K – $500K | Same day | Vehicle | Utes, trucks, trailers, fleet |
| 💵 Working Capital | $20K – $1M | 24-48 hrs | Unsecured/light | Payroll, materials, subcontractors |
| 📄 Invoice Finance | $50K – $5M+ | 24 hrs | Invoices | Unlocking cash from slow payers |
| 🏗️ Project Finance | $100K – $5M+ | 2-4 weeks | Contract + assets | Large contracts, retention funding |
| 🔄 Line of Credit | $50K – $2M | 1-2 weeks | Property/assets | Ongoing flexible access |
Tailored solutions for builders, contractors and tradies
Finance excavators, loaders, cranes, scaffolding and power tools.
Tax Benefits: Chattel mortgage lets you claim GST upfront + depreciation
Finance work vehicles from a single ute to a full fleet.
Popular: HiLux, Ranger, Triton, tippers, truck & dog combos
Bridge the gap between progress claims and expenses.
Uses: Payroll, materials, subcontractors, bond funding
Turn outstanding invoices into immediate cash.
Best for: Slow-paying builders, developers, government contracts
Funding tied to specific construction contracts.
Covers: Mobilisation, materials, labour, retention release
Revolving facility — draw, repay, redraw as needed.
Best for: Established builders with fluctuating project pipelines
Understanding chattel mortgage vs lease options
| Feature | Chattel Mortgage | Finance Lease | Operating Lease |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ownership | You own from day 1 | Lender owns, you have option | Lender owns throughout |
| GST | Claim 100% upfront | Claim on each payment | Claim on each payment |
| Depreciation | You claim | Typically cannot claim* | Cannot claim |
| Balance Sheet | Asset + liability shown | Asset + liability shown | Off balance sheet |
| Best For | Tax efficiency, long-term | Lower payments, upgrading | Short-term, uncertain need |
*Consult your accountant for specific tax advice. Recommendation: Chattel mortgage for equipment you'll keep 3+ years.
We compare lenders who understand the construction industry
Best for: Lowest rates, established businesses with strong financials, large facilities
Best for: Fast approvals, flexible criteria, construction-specific experience
Best for: Invoice finance, unsecured working capital, fast turnaround
Lender availability and criteria may vary. Not all lenders suitable for all circumstances.
See how we've helped builders and tradies
Marcus needed a 20-tonne excavator for a council contract.
Result: Chattel mortgage, 100% finance, 5-year term at 7.4% fixed. GST claimed upfront ($28,500). Monthly: $5,680.
James had $360K tied up in receivables from a tier 2 builder.
Result: Invoice finance facility. 80% advance within 24 hours. Fee: 2.1% of invoice value. No property security required.
Results shown are indicative only. Individual circumstances, lender criteria, and market conditions will affect actual outcomes. We provide credit assistance to help you compare options.
Problems we help solve
| Challenge | Impact | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Slow progress payments | 30-60+ day waits drain cash | Invoice finance or working capital |
| Retention holdbacks | 5-10% held for 12+ months | Retention funding products |
| Seasonal work | Income dips in wet season | Line of credit for flexibility |
| Upfront material costs | Cash out before cash in | Trade finance, short-term funding |
| Bank guarantee needs | Ties up capital | Bank guarantee facilities |
| ATO debt from GST timing | Limits lending options | Lenders who accept payment plans |
Common questions about construction business finance
Often none. Many lenders offer 100% finance for equipment. Newer businesses or weaker credit may require 10-20% deposit.
Possibly. Some lenders accept applications with ATO payment plans in place. Significant debt (>$50K) limits options. Best to address tax debt before or during application.
You claim the full GST on the purchase price upfront (at your next BAS). The loan is for the GST-exclusive amount. You'll need to be GST registered.
Yes. Sole traders and subcontractors can access equipment finance, vehicle loans, and some working capital products. ABN time and income evidence assessed.
Unsecured under $150K: Often 24-48 hours. Larger or secured facilities: 1-2 weeks typically.
Get matched with construction-friendly lenders. Equipment, vehicles, working capital and more.
Start Your Free Assessment →No credit impact • No cost to you • Fast approvals available