Finance Guides & Resources
In-depth guides to help you understand car loans, credit scores, and finance options. Everything you need to make informed borrowing decisions.
Featured Guides
Our most popular guides to help you get started
First Car Loan Guide
Everything you need to know about getting your first car loan. From understanding loan types to tips for first-time buyers, this comprehensive guide covers it all.
What you'll learn:
- Types of car loans explained
- How to calculate your budget
- What documents you need
- Tips for first-time borrowers
- What to avoid (ASIC warnings)
Understanding Credit Scores
Learn what makes up your credit score, how Equifax, Experian, and Illion scores differ, and practical steps you can take to improve your creditworthiness.
What you'll learn:
- The three Australian credit bureaus
- Credit score ranges explained
- What affects your score
- How to check your credit report
- Steps to improve your score
Bad Credit Loans Guide
Options for getting finance with defaults, bankruptcy, or past credit issues. What lenders look for and how to improve your chances of approval.
What you'll learn:
- What constitutes bad credit
- Financial vs non-financial defaults
- Bankruptcy and Part IX requirements
- Tips to improve approval chances
- Interest rates to expect
Common Loan Pitfalls
Essential guide to avoiding car loan traps. Early payout fees, balloon payments, dealer finance issues, and what to do if you have a complaint.
What you'll learn:
- Early payout fees and break costs
- Balloon payment traps to avoid
- Dealer finance red flags
- Consumer vs commercial loan protections
- How to make a complaint (AFCA)
Buying a Car as an Immigrant
Complete guide to buying a car in Australia as a new immigrant. License requirements, finance options without credit history, insurance, and registration.
What you'll learn:
- Getting your Australian licence
- Finance without credit history
- Insurance for new arrivals
- Registration requirements
- Visa types and eligibility
All Guides
Browse our complete collection of finance guides
First Car Loan Guide
PopularEverything you need to know about getting your first car loan. From understanding loan types to tips for first-time buyers, this comprehensive guide covers it all.
12 min readUnderstanding Credit Scores
PopularLearn what makes up your credit score, how Equifax, Experian, and Illion scores differ, and practical steps you can take to improve your creditworthiness.
10 min readBusiness Vehicle Finance
Compare chattel mortgage, finance lease, and operating lease. Understand tax implications, GST claims, depreciation, and which option suits your business.
8 min readDebt Consolidation Guide
Understand how debt consolidation works, when it makes sense, and MoneySmart warnings about potential pitfalls. Make an informed decision about consolidating debts.
15 min readNovated Lease Guide
How salary packaging a car works, FBT calculations, the EV exemption, and whether a novated lease suits your situation. Essential reading before signing up.
12 min readBad Credit Loans Guide
PopularOptions for getting finance with defaults, bankruptcy, or past credit issues. What lenders look for and how to improve your chances of approval.
15 min readCommon Loan Pitfalls
PopularEssential guide to avoiding car loan traps. Early payout fees, balloon payments, dealer finance issues, and what to do if you have a complaint.
12 min readBuying a Car as an Immigrant
PopularComplete guide to buying a car in Australia as a new immigrant. License requirements, finance options without credit history, insurance, and registration.
10 min readUber Car Finance (No Credit History)
Guide for new arrivals wanting to drive Uber, Didi, or Ola in Australia. Vehicle requirements, finance options, and step-by-step process.
8 min readQuick Tips Before You Apply
Simple steps to improve your chances of approval
Know Your Budget
Before applying, calculate how much you can comfortably afford in repayments. Consider all your expenses, not just the loan.
Check Your Credit Report
Get a free copy of your credit report before applying. This helps you understand what lenders will see and fix any errors.
Gather Your Documents
Have your ID, proof of income, and bank statements ready. Being prepared speeds up the application process.
Compare Multiple Options
Don't just accept the first offer. Compare rates, fees, and features from multiple lenders to find the best deal.
Car Loan Calculator
Estimate your repayments before you apply. Adjust loan amount, interest rate, and term to find a budget that works for you.
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