BLOGS

New ABN, No Problems": Financing for Startups and New Entities

There is an old banking myth: "If you haven't been in business for 2 years, you can't get a loan.
New ABN, No Problems": Financing for Startups and New Entities
Tips
January 2026

There is an old banking myth: "If you haven't been in business for 2 years, you can't get a loan.

In 2026, this rule is dead. While the "Big 4" banks remain conservative, the Tier-2 and specialist lender market is booming with appetite for startups and new ABNs. They understand that every great business starts at Day 1.

The "Asset-Backed" Solution

Lenders view risk differently depending on what you are buying.

  • Low Risk: If a startup transport company buys a brand new Prime Mover, the lender has strong security. If the business fails, they can sell the truck. Because of this security, they are often willing to lend to a Day 1 ABN holder.
  • High Risk: Unsecured cash loans for marketing are much harder for startups to get.

Experience is Currency

Lenders look at the person, not just the ABN. If you have just started your own plumbing business, but you have 10 years of experience as a qualified employee, that counts. We package your resume and industry certifications with the application to prove you know what you're doing.

Low Doc Options

You don't have tax returns yet? No problem.

  • Bank Statement Loans: Lenders assess your serviceability based on the cash flow in your business bank account over the last 6 months.
  • No Doc: For smaller assets (e.g., a vehicle under $50k), some lenders require no financial proof at all if you have a clean credit file and home ownership.

Don't let a new ABN hold you back. Contact Geared Finance today—we have lenders ready to back your start-up journey.

*The information in this post is provided for general information only and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from financial, legal and taxation advisors. Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information as at the date of publication, Geared Finance, its officers, employees and agents disclaim all liability (except for any liability which by law cannot be excluded), for any error, inaccuracy, or omission from the information for any reason, including due to the passage of time, or any loss or damage suffered by any person directly or indirectly through relying on this information.

Don’t take our word for it! Hear it from our customers.

Stomping Ground Brewing Co.
I have been working with Geared Finance for over 10 years. During this time, they have helped us with our equipment finance needs and have been a pleasure to deal with. The team is responsive, fast, and easy to work with. They go above and beyond, even liaising with suppliers to streamline the process.
Guy Greenstone
Guy Greenstone
Stomping Ground Brewing Co.
Guy Greenstone
Stomping Ground Brewing Co.
Guy Greenstone
Sodexo
We have been working with Geared Finance for the past 4 years and always found their service attentive and prompt. Geared provides a high level of customer service and works with us to create bespoke solutions that suit our business. They are always professional, supportive, and ready to assist.
Sandra Giannakopoulos
Sandra Giannakopoulos
Sodexo
Sandra Giannakopoulos
Sodexo
Sandra Giannakopoulos
Fabulous Catering
Geared Finance has supported our business in many ways. From equipment and solar to software and vehicles, they offer solutions across the board. With competitive rates and fast service, they provide advice and experience that help our business grow. We’re proud to be a loyal client of Geared Finance.
Adam Pope
Adam Pope
Fabulous Catering
Adam Pope
Fabulous Catering
Adam Pope
Alphington Grammar School
Geared Asset Finance has financed our school’s IT equipment over the years. As a school, we need flexibility and an understanding of financial cycles, which they provide. Their support and service are reliable, and we’ve always felt confident working with them. We highly recommend them to others.
Manuel Pappos
Manuel Pappos
Alphington Grammar School
Manuel Pappos
Alphington Grammar School
Manuel Pappos
Geelong Collision Care
The team at Geared Asset Finance has been phenomenal. They handle our business finances from start to finish and are always available to help. Their long-term support has made a real difference to us. We’ve trusted them for years, and we’re sure we’ll continue to work with them well into the future.
Mark Clarke
Mark Clarke
Geelong Collision Care
Mark Clarke
Geelong Collision Care
Mark Clarke