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Car loans for FIFO workers

Greenside Finance team · Updated October 2026

Yes, FIFO and DIDO workers can get a car or 4WD loan: most lenders assess your roster pay from payslips and year-to-date earnings, and count overtime and allowances when they're regular. Greenside Finance is a Perth-based broker comparing 40+ lenders for FIFO workers across Western Australia and Australia-wide.

Get a free quote Call 1800 147 336

40+ lenders compared · Perth-based, Subiaco office · No credit check to request a quote

Who this is for

How lenders read FIFO income

IncomeHow lenders usually treat it
Base payCounted in full from payslips.
Overtime and shift penaltiesCounted when regular. Some lenders count all of it, others a portion. Year-to-date figures smooth out swing-to-swing differences.
Site, remote or travel allowancesCounted when they're on your payslip and paid consistently. One-off bonuses carry less weight.
Casual via labour hireSome lenders want 6–12 months in the role; some accept less if you've worked continuously in mining.
New job or probationSome lenders lend from day one if you're continuing in the same industry. Others want 3–6 months.

Lenders also look at your credit file, existing debts (including any home loan in Perth), and living costs in both places if you pay rent on site and at home.

What lenders look at

Documents checklist

Low doc vs full doc

Low doc is for self-employed borrowers, so it doesn't apply to PAYG FIFO workers: payslips are your evidence. Some lenders assess on payslips; others also ask for bank statements. We'll tell you up front what your lender needs. ABN contractors can use low doc options once their ABN is established.

How it works with Greenside

  1. Tell us your roster. And the car, the price and when you're next home. We call on your days off, not mid-shift.
  2. We compare lenders. A Perth broker checks the 40+ lender panel against your income mix and postcode, and explains the options and costs.
  3. Get your finance sorted before you fly home. Upload payslips and sign electronically from site, so you're ready to buy on your break (subject to lender approval).
  4. The lender pays the seller. Dealer or private: for private sales we run the PPSR check and pay out any finance owing first. More on used car loans and private sale car loans.

Example

Illustrative scenario based on common enquiries, not a specific client. A dump truck operator on a 2:1 roster, four months into a new Pilbara role after five years with another miner, wanted a used 4WD dual-cab for around $55,000, bought privately in Perth on a week off. Several lenders wanted six months in the job, so we went to lenders that count continuous industry experience. Overtime was regular across the year-to-date payslips, so it counted. The application was with the lender before the flight home, and the PPSR check was done before meeting the seller.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a car loan while on probation?

Often, yes. Some lenders accept probation if you've worked continuously in the same industry. Others want 3–6 months in the role, so lender choice matters.

Do lenders count my overtime and allowances?

Usually, if they're regular and on your payslips. Some count all of it, others a portion, and year-to-date figures help show it's consistent.

I'm a casual through a labour-hire company. Can I still borrow?

Yes, at some lenders. Time in the role matters, and a solid history in mining helps. We match you to lenders that accept your setup.

I live in Karratha. Can I buy a car in Perth?

Yes. Some lenders exclude parts of regional WA by postcode, so we check yours first. Everything is done by phone and e-sign, and you can buy in Perth on your break.

Can I apply while I'm on site?

Yes. Send payslips and ID from your phone and sign electronically. We work around your roster, so your application can be with the lender before you fly home. Approval is up to the lender.

Can I finance a 4WD with a fit-out?

Usually, if the accessories are on the dealer invoice, within the lender's limit. Bars, drawers and suspension added later by another supplier are harder to include.

I'm a FIFO contractor on an ABN. Is it different?

Yes. You're assessed as a business, on ABN and GST age, and low doc options may suit. See our ute finance page.

Get a free FIFO car loan quote

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Greenside Finance Pty Ltd (ABN 76 678 053 122) is an Authorised Credit Representative (#561052) of Fintelligence Pty Ltd, Australian Credit Licence #511803. Unit 5/531 Hay St, Subiaco WA 6008 · 1800 147 336. All finance is subject to lender approval, terms, conditions and fees. Information on this page is general and doesn't consider your objectives, financial situation or needs.

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We're dedicated to your growth, providing expert loan solutions across Australia to support your financial progress and help you achieve your goals.
Address: Unit 5/531 Hay St, Subiaco WA 6008
Phone: 1800 147 336

Greenside Finance (ABN 76 678 053 122) is an Authorised Credit Representative (#561052) of Fintelligence Pty Ltd (ABN 80 625 017 174), who holds Australian Credit Licence (#511803).