Can I get a loan if I'm on casual employment?

Yes, but you'll typically need 12+ months history with the same employer. Some lenders accept 6 months. Having regular hours helps - they want to see income stability. Expect slightly higher rates.

What is low-doc lending?

Low-doc loans require minimal documentation - often just bank statements instead of tax returns. They're designed for self-employed borrowers with complex financials. Trade-off: higher rates and typically 20-40% deposit required.

Lender Policy Matcher

AI + Live Data

Find lenders that accept your unique situation (self-employed, visa, casual)

Free to useNo data storedReal-time dataAI insightsUpdated: February 2026

Not all lenders are the same. If you're self-employed, a visa holder, or have non-standard income, many lenders will decline you - but others specialize in exactly your situation. Our AI searches current lender policies to find your best options.

Enter Your Details

Real-World Examples

Self-Employed Tradesperson

Mike runs his own plumbing business for 3 years, can provide 2 years of tax returns.

Inputs Used:

employmentType:Self-employedtimeInRole:2+ yearsvisaStatus:Australian CitizencreditHistory:Excellent (no issues)incomeType:Standard (payslips + tax returns)

Strong profile. Most lenders accept self-employed with 2+ years ABN. Key: ensure accountant structures income correctly (add back genuine expenses). Expected options: 20+ lenders.

482 Visa Holder

Priya is on a 482 skilled worker visa, 18 months into her role, excellent credit.

Inputs Used:

employmentType:Full-time PAYGtimeInRole:1-2 yearsvisaStatus:Temporary Visa (482/457)creditHistory:Excellent (no issues)incomeType:Standard (payslips + tax returns)

About 15 lenders accept 482 visa holders. Most require 10-30% deposit (higher than citizens). Some require visa to have minimum 12 months remaining.

Frequently Asked Questions

Glossary

Low-Doc Loan

A loan requiring minimal income documentation, typically bank statements only. Designed for self-employed borrowers who may not show high income on tax returns.

Genuine Savings

Savings held for typically 3+ months. Some lenders require this to show borrowing discipline, especially for high LVR loans.

ABN Time

How long your Australian Business Number has been active. Most lenders require 2+ years ABN for self-employed applicants.

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How to Use

1Select your employment type
2Indicate your time in current role
3Choose your visa status
4Select your credit history
5Choose your income verification preference
6Get matched lenders for your situation

Pro Tips

Some lenders specialize in self-employed borrowers - they understand variable income better
If you're on a 482 visa, some lenders allow 95% LVR - others cap at 70%
Contractor income can be calculated differently - some use the contract rate, others average income
Low-doc loans exist but typically require 20-40% deposit and higher rates

Avoid These Mistakes

Applying with multiple lenders at once - each inquiry affects your credit score
Not declaring all income sources - lenders prefer complete pictures even if complex
Assuming you can't get a loan with bad credit - specialist lenders exist, just at higher rates
Not waiting for probation to end - waiting 3-6 months dramatically increases options

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only and should not be relied upon for financial decisions. Interest rates, fees, and policies change frequently. Always verify information with lenders directly. This is general information, not personal financial advice. Consider seeking advice from a licensed mortgage broker or financial advisor.

Last updated: February 2026