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Business finance by industry

Construction & Trades finance

Builders, subcontractors and trades businesses often buy materials, book labour and mobilise equipment before a client pays. Work may be contracted per project, with progress claims and retentions rather than a steady daily sale.

How money moves in this industry

A profitable contract can still strain cash when wages and suppliers fall due before a milestone payment clears. Variation disputes and delayed certification can lengthen that gap.

A practical example

A contractor wins a larger job and must fund labour and materials for its first stage before the initial progress claim is paid.

This illustrates a funding need; it is not a lender eligibility claim or a recommendation to borrow.

Common reasons to explore finance

  • Mobilising a new contract
  • Buying tools, plant or vehicles
  • Bridging a progress-payment gap
  • Funding a commercial workshop

Equipment and assets that may be financed

Asset finance depends on the lender's product, the asset, its condition and the proposed term. Examples in this industry include:

  • Excavators and earthmoving equipment
  • Trade vehicles
  • Tools and workshop machinery

Questions to prepare for a lender discussion

These are useful preparation questions, not a statement that any particular lender accepts this industry.

  • How are contracts, progress claims and retentions documented?
  • Are invoices owed by a creditworthy principal?
  • What equipment or property is available as security?

Insurance and business continuity

Finance is one part of a business decision. This industry may also need to consider public liability, workers compensation, plant and equipment cover, depending on its activities, contracts and legal obligations. Our business insurance guide explains the concepts and links to official Australian sources.

Find your business type

Explore construction & trades businesses.

Choose a closer description of your work. These paths help you explore funding needs; they do not establish a lender’s industry policy.

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