Everything self-employed Australians need to know about getting a home loan. Covers full-doc, alt-doc, and low-doc options with realistic rate expectations.
Being self-employed shouldn't mean being shut out of the property market — but it does mean navigating a different path. Lenders assess self-employed borrowers differently because income can vary year to year, and tax minimisation strategies often make your "on-paper" income look lower than what you actually earn.
This guide covers the three main documentation pathways for self-employed borrowers in 2026, what lenders actually look for, and how to present the strongest possible application.
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Self-employed loan comparison (indicative rates, March 2026):
| Doc Type | Rate Premium | Max LVR | Required Docs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-doc | None (standard rates from 5.99%) | 95% | 2 years' tax returns + financials |
| Alt-doc | +0.30–0.75% | 80% | 6–12 months' BAS + accountant letter |
| Low-doc | +0.50–1.50% | 60–70% | Self-declaration + ABN |
The rate premium for alt-doc loans has narrowed significantly in recent years as lenders have become more sophisticated in assessing self-employed income. With a good broker, many self-employed borrowers qualify for full-doc rates.
Self-employed Australians make up roughly 10% of the workforce, yet many feel locked out of home ownership because they don't fit the "standard" lending mould. The reality is that dozens of lenders actively court self-employed borrowers — you just need to know where to look and how to present your application.
With the right broker and accountant working together, self-employed borrowers can access competitive rates and genuine lending options. Start the conversation early, keep your records tidy, and don't let the myth of "banks don't lend to self-employed" hold you back.
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