Car loans and personal loans: comparing lenders through a broker

Last updated 3 November 2026 · Reviewed by 360 Asset Finance Compliance

Who provides the loan?

Car loans and personal loans are arranged by 360 Asset Finance (Kuone Consulting Pty Ltd, Australian Credit Licence 566705), part of the 360 group. The loan itself is provided by a lender from our panel, and that lender decides whether to approve it under its own assessment and lending criteria. We're not tied to one lender, so we can compare options across our panel. 360 Asset Finance is a member of the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).

What can I use a car loan or personal loan for?

• Buying a new or used car, ute or van for personal use.
• Consolidating existing debts into one loan with one repayment.
• A holiday, spread over regular repayments.
• Smaller home improvements and repairs.
• Medical, dental and other health costs.
• A boat, caravan or motorbike for personal use.

What's the difference between a secured and an unsecured loan?

A secured loan uses an asset, usually the car or other item you're buying, as security. If you don't make the repayments, the lender can take and sell that asset to recover what's owed. An unsecured loan has no asset as security, so the lender relies on your income and credit history. Because the lender's risk is different, secured and unsecured loans may be priced differently, and not every purpose can be secured. Your broker can show you which types are available for what you need.

What do I need to apply?

Usually you'll need:

• proof of identity
• proof of income, such as payslips
• details of your expenses and existing debts
• for a car loan, details of the car.

The lender may ask for more, depending on your situation and the loan.

What will the loan cost?

Interest rates and fees depend on the lender and the loan. When you compare, look at more than the repayment amount:

• the interest rate and whether it's fixed or variable
• upfront and ongoing fees
• the loan term, because a longer term lowers each repayment but can mean paying more interest overall
• any fees for paying the loan off early
• the total amount you'll repay over the life of the loan.

We explain the rate, fees and total cost before you decide, so you know what you're committing to.

Will consolidating my debts save me money?

Not always. One repayment can be easier to manage, but a longer term can mean paying more interest overall. Fees to close existing debts and to set up the new loan add to the cost too. It also helps to stop using the cards or accounts you've paid off, so the debt doesn't build up again. We look at your situation before suggesting a loan.

What checks does the broker do?

We ask about your goals, income and expenses, and check that any loan we suggest meets your needs and that you can afford the repayments. We won't suggest a loan that doesn't meet your needs or that you can't afford to repay. We then compare options from our panel, help with the application and keep you updated until your funds are paid. Timing depends on the lender and your documents.

FAQs

General information only. It doesn't take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs, and it isn't credit, tax or legal advice. Finance is provided by the lender you choose and is subject to its lending criteria; fees and charges apply. 360 Asset Finance is a trading name of Kuone Consulting Pty Ltd (ABN 75 647 329 002), Australian Credit Licence 566705.