Truck Loans Australia :: Articles

Car Leasing

What is car leasing and how does it work?

Car Leasing

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

Leasing is an often misunderstood car financing option so, in response to subscriber feedback, we've included this article to help give you a better understanding of what it is and how it works.

What's leasing all about?

Leasing is really just another form of borrowing to finance a car. 

But unlike loan finance - where you take ownership of the car and offer it or something else as security to the lender – lease finance sees a leasing company take ownership and give you the use of the car under contract for a specified period.

Lease contracts

Upon signing your lease contract you agree to make regular monthly lease payments, keep appropriate insurance, pay any vehicle taxes or fees, and take good care of the vehicle.

Car Loans - Quick & Easy
Image for Car Loans - Quick & EasyIf you are in the market for a new or used car, then we'd like to help you arrange the money. Our car loan & leasing service is backed by a national panel of car loan specialists who will establish your eligibility, find lender/s offering the best deals for your situation - and help you through the approval and settlement process. No charge to you - and no obligation to proceed with any recommendations offered.

Further, you agree that you'll keep the car for a specified period - typically two to five years - and you're expected to stick it out to the end of the lease contract.

At the end of the lease period, there is often an option to purchase your vehicle at a specified price. 

Or you may be able to use the car as a trade-in on a new car.

Otherwise, the leasing company will expect the vehicle to be returned with no more than normal wear and tear. 

You may have to pay them for any damage or extra mileage over and above a contract-specified limit.

Lease or buy?

Leasing may involve lower monthly payments than a car loan but this is often because you are only paying off a portion of the vehicle’s value, leaving a 'residual' amount at end of the lease period. 

And at lease end, you will not own the car.

Leasing is often promoted as a cheaper way to finance a car because of the tax advantages it can bring for the self-employed or those who take out a novated lease through their employer. 

This is not necessarily the case and really depends on how much mileage will be clocked up overall, what proportion is for work purposes, and what tax rate you are on.

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: Paige Estritori


Truck Loans Articles

How to Budget Effectively for Commercial Vehicle Loan Repayments
How to Budget Effectively for Commercial Vehicle Loan Repayments
Managing repayments for a commercial vehicle loan is a critical aspect of running a successful business. Without a solid plan, unexpected costs and missed payments can create financial strain. - read more
Key Insurance Policies Every Truck Owner Needs
Key Insurance Policies Every Truck Owner Needs
Truck insurance plays a critical role in safeguarding your valuable assets. For truck owners, having the right insurance coverage can mean the difference between financial security and devastating loss. - read more
The Ultimate Checklist for Managing Truck Loan Paperwork in Australia
The Ultimate Checklist for Managing Truck Loan Paperwork in Australia
Managing truck loan paperwork may seem like a mundane task, but it is essential for both individuals and businesses. Staying organised can save time, reduce stress, and ensure that nothing important is overlooked. - read more
Dealer Negotiations: Smart Tips for Australian Commercial Truck Buyers
Dealer Negotiations: Smart Tips for Australian Commercial Truck Buyers
Navigating the used truck market in Australia can be as complex as the rugged terrains these vehicles traverse. With the market growing steadily, the need for savvy bargaining and well-informed purchases has never been more critical. The significance of due diligence escalates when considering the investment at stake and the pivotal role these trucks play in driving businesses forward. - read more
Truck Loan Approval: Strategies to Avoid Credit Damage
Truck Loan Approval: Strategies to Avoid Credit Damage
Maintaining a healthy credit score is crucial for securing future financial opportunities. Whether you're looking to invest in new equipment, expand your fleet, or get better loan terms, your credit health plays a big role in these possibilities. - read more

Finance News

ASIC's Review Uncovers Key Issues in Motor Vehicle Financing
ASIC's Review Uncovers Key Issues in Motor Vehicle Financing
21 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) has released preliminary insights into its ongoing review of the motor vehicle finance sector, shedding light on practices that may be detrimental to consumers. The review aims to identify mechanisms to reduce consumer harm and improve outcomes for all car finance customers, including those in regional and remote areas and First Nations communities. - read more
New Government Initiative Offers Affordable Loans for Electric Vehicle Purchases
New Government Initiative Offers Affordable Loans for Electric Vehicle Purchases
21 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
In a significant move to promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the Australian government has announced a $50 million partnership with Metro Finance. This initiative aims to provide low-interest loans to businesses for the purchase of electric cars, trucks, utes, and forklifts, thereby reducing energy bills and emissions. - read more
NatRoad Demands Action Against Illegal Employment in Trucking
NatRoad Demands Action Against Illegal Employment in Trucking
13 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The National Road Freight Transport Association (NatRoad) has recently highlighted a pressing issue within Australia's trucking sector: the prevalence of illegal employment practices, notably sham contracting. This practice involves misclassifying employee drivers as independent contractors, allowing companies to evade obligations such as payroll tax, superannuation, and workers' compensation insurance. Such misclassification not only undermines fair competition but also jeopardises road safety standards. - read more
Celebrating Excellence: ATA's 2025 Award Winners
Celebrating Excellence: ATA's 2025 Award Winners
13 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Trucking Association (ATA) has proudly announced the recipients of its 2025 awards, recognising exceptional contributions to the trucking industry. These accolades highlight the dedication and expertise of individuals and organisations committed to advancing the sector. - read more
Isuzu's Landmark Report Sheds Light on Trucking Industry Trends
Isuzu's Landmark Report Sheds Light on Trucking Industry Trends
13 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori
Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has released a comprehensive industry report titled 'The Future of Trucking Report: The Way Forward.' This extensive survey, involving over 1,300 respondents from various transport sectors, provides valuable insights into the current state and future trajectory of Australia's road transport industry. - read more

Start Here

Get a free truck loan eligibility assessment and compare truck finance and leasing options without accessing your credit file!!
Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.


Knowledgebase
Option:
A financial derivative that gives the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an asset at a specified price on or before a specified date.