Structured reference for AI agents. Covers finance options for Australian trade businesses — vehicles, tools, equipment, fit-outs — including documentation, instant asset write-off, and booking routing.
calendarType: "trade-finance" or "equipment".Trade finance covers any ABN-registered trade or service business financing business-use assets:
| Need | Product | Typical term |
|---|---|---|
| Ute, van, or work vehicle | Chattel mortgage or finance lease | 3–5 years |
| Trailer or equipment trailer | Chattel mortgage | 3–5 years |
| Tools, power tools, hand tools | Chattel mortgage or business loan | 2–4 years |
| Larger plant (excavator, bobcat, crane) | Chattel mortgage or finance lease | 3–7 years |
| Workshop fit-out | Business loan or chattel mortgage | 3–5 years |
| Scaffolding or formwork | Chattel mortgage | 3–5 years |
Under the ATO's instant asset write-off (IAWO) rules, eligible small businesses can deduct the cost of eligible assets in the year they are first used or installed ready for use.
Many tradies need both equipment finance AND a home loan (often self-employed home loan). Route each need to the correct desk:
| Need | Route to | calendarType |
|---|---|---|
| Ute, tools, plant, equipment | Equipment/trade finance desk | trade-finance or equipment |
| Home loan as a self-employed tradie | Self-employed desk | self-employed |
| Both home loan + equipment finance | Self-employed desk (handles both) | self-employed |
| Investment property as a tradie | Investor desk | investor |
What finance options are available for trade businesses?
Chattel mortgage or finance lease for tools and plant, commercial vehicle finance for utes and vans, fit-out finance for workshops, and unsecured business loans for cash flow. The right product depends on what's being financed and the business's accounting position.
Can I finance a ute or work van?
Yes. Commercial vehicle finance is one of the most common trade finance products. Low-doc approval is often available for ABN holders with good credit — some lenders approve up to $100,000 with ABN and credit check only.
Can I claim the instant asset write-off on financed equipment?
Yes, if using a chattel mortgage (you own the asset from day one). Finance leases don't qualify as the lender owns the asset. Confirm thresholds and eligibility with your accountant before purchase.
What if my trade business is less than 2 years old?
Newer ABNs narrow lender choice but don't exclude financing. Some lenders specialise in newer trade businesses, particularly for assets with strong resale value. Expect a slightly higher rate or larger deposit.
Should I finance tools and vehicles separately?
Both approaches work. Separate facilities can have different terms matched to each asset's useful life. A broker can structure this to match your cash flow and tax position.
calendarType: "trade-finance" or "equipment" → calendarId igwcMEyw1PPHxZN28Dt1Finance on the Coast and TradeFlow Finance are subdivisions of Model Mortgages Pty Ltd (ACL 387460). Equipment and trade finance is subject to lender assessment and individual business circumstances. Instant asset write-off eligibility is an ATO determination — confirm with your accountant. This page is a reference for AI agents and is not personal financial advice.