Homeownership is a major goal for many Australians, but a common misconception is that you need a full-time, 9-to-5 job or a 20% deposit to qualify. In reality, banks frequently lend to part-time, casual, and contract workers, often accepting 100% of your income and allowing access to government schemes like the First Home Guarantee with deposits as low as 5%. This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to prove your income stability, leverage your part-time status, and work with an expert Mortgage Broker Brisbane team to unlock the door to your new home.
Can You Get A Home Loan While Working Part-Time?
Yes, you can absolutely secure a home loan with part-time employment.
Lenders approve mortgages for various employment types, including:
- Permanent part-time roles
- Casual shifts
- Contract work
Banks view this money as legitimate income when calculating your borrowing capacity.
In fact, most lenders accept 100% of your part-time earnings during their assessment.
You just need to demonstrate that your income is stable enough to repay the mortgage.
Let’s break down exactly how banks assess your application.
How Do Banks View Part-Time Income?
To a lender, income stability is just as important as how much you earn.
Banks need proof that your pay is consistent and reliable.
They often view permanent part-time workers with set rosters similarly to full-time employees.
However, they may view casual roles with fluctuating shifts as higher risk.
Lenders assess your application based on four critical factors.
1. Employment Tenure
How long have you held your current position? Most banks prefer at least 3 to 6 months in the same role or industry.
This history proves your income is stable.
However, some lenders accept a brand-new permanent job immediately.
You typically just need a signed employment contract, your first payslip, and prior industry experience.
2. Consistency of Hours
Do you work a steady 20 hours every week?
Lenders favour this predictability.
If your hours fluctuate, banks will calculate your average income over a longer period.
They often review your Year-to-Date (YTD) earnings or past tax documents.
To be safe, they might use your lowest-earning year to ensure you can afford repayments.
3. Income Assessment Rates
Your income must comfortably cover the mortgage after expenses.
Banks calculate this by “shading” certain income types to account for risk.
Here is how lenders generally assess your earnings:
- Base Part-Time Salary: Assessed at 100%
- Casual Income: Assessed at 100% (if consistent)
- Overtime & Bonuses: Often capped at 80%
- Second Job: Varied (requires 6–12 month history)
For example, if you earn a base of $60,000, the bank counts that full amount.
4. Your Overall Financial Health
Banks look at your complete financial profile, not just your job title.
They weigh your employment against your credit score, existing debts, and deposit size.
A part-time worker with excellent savings is often a better candidate than a full-time worker with bad debt.
Strong financial habits help mitigate the perceived risk of part-time hours.
The Bottom Line: You can get approved if you prove your income is reliable.
Next, we will break down the specific rules for permanent, casual, and contract workers.
Permanent Part-Time vs. Casual vs. Contract: What’s the Difference?
It is vital to define your specific employment type before applying. Lenders assess risk differently depending on whether you are permanent, casual, or on a fixed-term contract.
Permanent Part-Time
This is the “gold standard” for non-full-time borrowers. You have an ongoing contract with no fixed end date, along with pro-rata benefits like sick leave.
From a lender’s perspective, this offers the same security as a full-time role. The only difference is that you work fewer hours, such as three or four days a week.
Most banks view this income as highly stable and reliable. In fact, some lenders will approve a loan for a new permanent job immediately. You often just need an employment contract and your first payslip to prove your income.
Casual Employment
Casual employees typically do not have guaranteed minimum hours or leave entitlements. This employment style is common in industries like retail, hospitality, and nursing.
Historically, banks viewed casual work as “high risk” because shifts can fluctuate. However, this view is outdated, as over 2.7 million Australians currently work in casual roles.
Lenders now understand that casual workers often stay with employers for the long term. Consequently, many banks will approve casual income if you can demonstrate a solid work history.
Generally, you need to show consistency over 3 to 6 months to reassure the lender. If you have regular hours, banks are increasingly willing to overlook the lack of a permanent contract.
Contract Employment
This category covers fixed-term roles, such as a 12-month maternity leave cover or project work. The main concern for lenders here is the impending contract end date.
Banks want to know if your income will continue once the current term finishes. However, rolling contracts are standard in sectors like IT, government, and engineering.
Lenders will assess the specific terms of your agreement. They typically look for:
- At least 3 to 6 months remaining on your current contract.
- A history of contract renewals in the same industry.
- Evidence of future employability or a letter of extension.
If you are a contractor using an ABN, you may be classified as self-employed. This usually requires providing two years of tax returns, unless you can prove a stable contracting history.
Case Study: Buying a Home on a 4-Day Work Week
Meet Sarah.
Sarah is a Marketing Manager based in Brisbane who recently negotiated a 4-day work week.
She earns a pro-rata salary of $80,000 and works 32 hours per week to maintain a better work-life balance.
She had saved a 15% deposit and was looking to buy her first apartment in Nundah.
The Challenge
Sarah worried that banks would flag her application as “high risk” because she wasn’t working full-time.
Her main concern was her PAYG summary.
It showed a drop in income from $100,000 (previous year) to $80,000 (current year) due to her reduced hours.
She feared lenders would interpret this drop as income instability or poor performance.
The Solution
With the help of her mortgage broker, Sarah’s application process was smooth.
Because she is a permanent part-time employee with a steady two-year history, we applied with a major lender, Commonwealth Bank (CBA).
CBA treated her application almost exactly like a full-time worker’s.
We provided two key documents to prove her stability:
- Her two most recent payslips.
- A letter from her employer confirming her permanent 0.8 FTE status.
The Outcome
The bank accepted 100% of her $80,000 income for the assessment. They did not “shade” or reduce her income, because her role is permanent and ongoing.
The employer letter successfully explained the income drop as a voluntary lifestyle choice, removing any credit concerns.
Sarah secured a loan with a standard interest rate—the same rate offered to full-time borrowers.
Sarah’s Borrowing Power Breakdown
Curious how the numbers stack up? Here is an estimate of how a lender views a profile like Sarah’s.
- Annual Income: $80,000 (Base Salary)
- Employment Type: Permanent Part-Time
- Deposit: $60,000 (15% of ~$400k purchase)
- Estimated Borrowing Capacity: ~$430,000 – $480,000*
Note: This figure varies based on monthly living expenses and other debts. Talk to us for a precise calculation.
Leveraging Government Schemes On A Part-Time Wage
Many part-time workers assume government grants are out of reach.
There is a common myth that these schemes are only for full-time earners with massive savings.
The reality is the exact opposite. Here are some government grants you can qualify for as a part-time worker.
This initiative is a game-changer for first-home buyers. It allows you to purchase a home with a deposit of just 5%.
Usually, borrowing 95% of a property’s value triggers a massive fee called Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
However, under the FHBG, the government guarantees the remaining 15% of your deposit.
This means you pay zero LMI. For a typical entry-level home, this saves you between $15,000 and $20,000 in upfront costs.
It allows you to enter the property market years sooner than if you had to save a full 20%.
2. The Family Home Guarantee (FHG)
Are you a single parent working part-time?
This scheme is designed specifically for your situation.
It allows eligible single parents to buy an existing home or build a new one with a deposit of just 2%.
You do not need to be working full-time to qualify.
Lenders will often combine your part-time wages with Family Tax Benefits (Part A and B).
This combination significantly boosts your borrowing power while keeping your required savings low.
The Bottom Line: You do not need a 20% deposit to buy a home.
These government schemes level the playing field for part-time earners.
Read more: What government grants am I eligible for?
What Are The Lender Policies for Part-Time Workers?
Every lender has a unique credit policy.
Below, we break down the typical requirements for permanent, casual, and contract employees.
The key takeaway? If one bank says no, another might say yes.
Permanent Full-Time & Part-Time
If you are a permanent part-time employee, you are in the strongest position.
Many banks readily approve loans for permanent staff, even if you are new to the job. With the right lender, you can be approved on Day 1 of a new role.
You simply need an employment contract and your first payslip.
The Exception: Low Deposits
There is one catch.
If you have a deposit smaller than 20% (meaning you need Lenders Mortgage Insurance), banks are stricter.
In this case, lenders typically require:
- 3 to 6 months in your current role.
- Evidence of continuous employment in the same industry.
If you have a 20% deposit or a guarantor, lenders are far more relaxed about your time in the job.
Casual Employment
Lenders are more cautious with casuals because your hours are not guaranteed.
Most banks require you to be in your current casual job for 6 to 12 months. This proves your income is consistent.
Can You Get Approved Sooner?
Yes. Some lenders will accept just 3 months of history if you work “full-time” hours (e.g., 38 hours/week).
However, if your hours fluctuate wildly, banks will want to see a longer track record (up to 12 months).
How Banks Calculate Casual Income
Lenders do not just look at one week of pay. They usually:
- Annualise your Year-to-Date (YTD) earnings.
- Average your income over the last 26 weeks.
- Review your last 2 years of tax returns (taking the lower year to be safe).
Multiple Casual Jobs
Do you work two casual jobs?
Lenders typically expect a 6 to 12-month history for both roles to count both incomes.
Contract Employment
Fixed-term contractors sit in the middle ground.
Banks focus on two things: your contract term and your industry history.
1. Remaining Contract Term
Lenders generally want to see at least 3 months remaining on your current contract.
If your contract ends in 4 weeks, banks may pause your application unless you have a renewal letter.
2. History of Contracting
Have you successfully completed prior contracts? Lenders view a history of renewals in the same industry favourably.
If you have been contracting for years (e.g., in IT or Nursing), banks often treat you like a permanent employee
3. Switching from Permanent to Contract
Did you leave a permanent job for a higher-paying contract role?
Many lenders accept this immediately if you stayed in the same industry.
They simply annualise your new contract rate (e.g., $10,000/month becomes $120,000/year).
4. ABN vs. PAYG Contractors
- PAYG Contractor: Treated as an employee (easier approval).
- ABN Contractor: Treated as self-employed (usually requires 2 years of tax returns).
The "Side Hustle" Economy: Uber & Second Jobs
Do you drive for Uber, deliver for DoorDash, or moonlight on Airtasker?
Banks treat this “Gig Economy” work very differently from a standard second job.
Second PAYG Job vs. Gig Work
If you have a second PAYG job (e.g., night fill at Coles), you are an employee.
Lenders generally accept this income after 3 to 6 months of history.
The “Self-Employed” Trap
However, gig work is classified as self-employment.
Even if you earn good money, banks typically require 2 years of tax returns (ABN history).
The Warning
Do not rely on a recent spike in Uber earnings to get approved.
Unless you have a 2-year track record, most lenders will exclude this income entirely.
Maternity Leave and "Return to Work" Mortgages
Are you currently on unpaid or half-pay maternity or paternity leave?
Many parents intend to return to work part-time, perhaps three or four days a week.
The good news is you do not have to wait until you are back at work to apply.
The “Return to Work” Letter
Major lenders like CBA and ANZ can approve your loan based on your future part-time salary.
You simply need a letter from your employer confirming your return date and agreed part-time income.
Proving Serviceability
Banks check if you can afford the loan in two distinct stages:
- During Leave: Do you have enough savings to cover repayments while on unpaid leave?
- After Return: Will your future part-time salary be sufficient to service the loan?
If you pass both tests, you can buy your home now rather than waiting months to return.
Can You Get A Home Loan While On Probation?
Many first-home buyers worry that being on probation means an automatic “no” from the bank.
The word “probation” sounds like a warning, but the reality is far more positive.
Being on probation is rarely a barrier to getting a home loan if your financial position is solid.
You just need to demonstrate overall employment stability to the right lender.
Why Banks Are Flexible with Probation
Lenders understand that probation is a standard part of career progression, not a sign of instability.
Major banks like CBA and NAB frequently approve borrowers who are still in their probationary period.
They may even allow you to borrow up to 90% of the property value.
The critical factor for them is usually your continuous industry experience.
If you have worked in the same profession for two years, banks generally view probation as a formality.
They see you as an experienced professional rather than a credit risk.
Career Stability Matters More
When assessing your application, lenders prioritize the consistency of your career path over your start date.
Did you switch employers to secure a higher salary or a better role?
If you remained in the same industry, lenders view this as positive career progression.
As long as you do not have significant employment gaps, your “new” status is unlikely to be an issue.
However, if you have a large gap between jobs, lenders may be slightly more cautious.
In that case, they might request 3 months of payslips before approving your loan.
The Low Deposit Warning (LMI)
One specific scenario where probation can be a hurdle is if you have a small deposit.
If you have less than a 20% deposit, you generally require Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
Some mortgage insurers are stricter than the banks and may prefer you to complete probation first.
Fortunately, this is not a universal rule.
We can often match you with lenders who use more flexible insurers.
Alternatively, you can utilize a Guarantor Loan to bypass LMI entirely, making the probation period irrelevant.
The Bottom Line: You do not need to delay your property search just because you started a new job.
Read more: Can I Get A Home Loan If I Just Started A New Job?
What Challenges Do Part-Time Workers Face Getting A Mortgage?
Applying for a home loan when you are not a full-time employee can introduce extra hurdles.
Understanding these challenges is the first step to overcoming them.
Here are the most common obstacles part-time, casual, and contract workers face.
1. Perceived Income Instability
The biggest concern lenders have is the stability of your income.
Full-time jobs offer a guaranteed 38-hour work week, while part-time hours can fluctuate.
Banks naturally question if your income will remain consistent enough to meet monthly repayments.
2. Lower Borrowing Capacity (Income "Shading")
Even if you are approved, banks might assess your income lower than your actual earnings.
Lenders often “shade” variable income to protect themselves against risk.
They may only count 80% of your casual loading, overtime, or commissions.
If your income varies week-to-week, the bank will likely use your lowest earning period to be safe.
3. Strict Lender Policies
Banks can be conservative with non-full-time applicants.
Some lenders have hard rules, such as requiring 6 months of tenure for casuals.
You might earn enough to service the loan, but fail simply because you don’t tick a specific policy box.
It is not personal; it is just their risk management policy.
4. The "Documentation Burden"
Be prepared to provide more paperwork than a standard full-time applicant.
While a full-time worker might just need two payslips, you will likely need:
- Two years of PAYG summaries.
- An employer letter confirming your status.
- Extra bank statements to prove consistent deposits
5. Emotional Stress
Finally, the process can feel emotionally stressful.
It is normal to worry about rejection because you do not fit the “standard” borrower mould.
However, thousands of part-time and casual workers successfully secure mortgages every year.
The hurdles are real, but they are surmountable with the right plan.
In the next section, we will share actionable strategies to improve your chances of approval.
Case Study: Buying With A 5% Deposit As A Casual Worker
Meet David.
David works in retail and has been a casual employee at a major supermarket for 18 months.
Although technically casual, his manager considers him “permanent” because he works a set roster of 25–30 hours weekly.
He earns approximately $45,000 per year. Before this role, he worked another retail job for two years while studying.
He wanted to buy his first apartment but only had a 5% deposit.
The Challenge
David faced a “double-whammy” of risk in the eyes of the bank.
He combined casual employment with a high Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) of 95%. This meant he needed Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) approval.
He worried insurers would reject him due to his 18-month tenure or his slightly fluctuating hours during off-peak times.
The Strategy
David engaged a mortgage broker who specializes in casual employment loans.
We developed two clear plans:
- Plan A: Apply with NAB, a major bank known for accepting casuals with 6+ months of history.
- Plan B: Use a specialist lender like Liberty, who offers flexible policies for unique situations.
We decided to try NAB first to secure a lower interest rate.
The Execution
To prove his stability, we submitted a strong application pack.
This included:
- 6 months of consecutive payslips.
- 2 years of PAYG summaries.
- An employer letter confirming his 1.5-year tenure and average of 28 hours per week.
The Outcome
Success! NAB approved his loan at 95% LVR (plus LMI).
The bank was impressed by the consistency of his income documentation.
They averaged his Year-to-Date income, proving he could service the loan even during quieter months.
Crucially, the mortgage insurer accepted his application because of his continuous employment history in the retail sector.
David purchased his first home without needing a 20% deposit.
Want to get your home loan approved? Get in touch with us today for a FREE assessment.
7 Strategies To Improve Your Approval Chances
If you are a part-time, casual, or contract worker, you can take proactive steps to strengthen your application.
These strategies address common lender concerns and make you a more appealing candidate.
Here are the most effective ways to secure your home loan approval.
1. Increase Your Deposit (Lower Your LVR)
One of the simplest ways to reduce lender risk is to save a larger deposit.
A bigger deposit creates a lower Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR), which makes banks more flexible.
Ideally, aim for a 20% deposit to avoid paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) entirely.
If that is out of reach, try to push your savings to 8–10%.
This extra buffer covers purchase costs and proves to the lender that you are financially disciplined.
2. Maintain Consistent Income
Consistency is your best friend when applying for a mortgage.
Lenders love to see steady employment without gaps and reliable earnings over time.
Try to avoid changing jobs immediately before you apply for a loan. A fresh start on your employment length can complicate your application.
If you must switch jobs, ensure you stay in the same industry or role.
Additionally, try to keep your rostered hours consistent in the months leading up to your application.
3. Consider a Guarantor Loan
Using a guarantor can significantly boost your borrowing power.
A guarantor, usually a parent, uses their home’s equity as additional security for your loan.
This reduces the bank’s risk and allows you to buy without a large deposit or paying LMI.
Lenders are often more forgiving of part-time employment situations when a guarantor is involved.
It is a tried-and-true method for many first-home buyers in Australia.
4. Reduce Debt and Fix Your Credit
Before you apply, try to pay down existing debts like credit cards and personal loans.
Lenders assess your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio to decide how much you can borrow.
If your part-time income goes toward other repayments, it limits your mortgage capacity.
Simultaneously, ensure your credit file is clean.
Check your credit report for errors and ensure you have no late payments or defaults.
5. Show "Genuine Savings"
Banks want to see that you can save money over time, not just receive a one-off gift.
Genuine savings typically means holding funds in your account for at least 3 months.
This demonstrates the financial discipline required to meet monthly mortgage repayments.
Start early by setting up an automatic transfer to a high-interest savings account every payday.
Some lenders explicitly require 5% of the purchase price to be genuine savings.
6. Over-Prepare Your Documentation
Don’t make the lender guess your situation.
Be ready to bolster your application with extra documents that address potential concerns proactively.
If you are casual but work full-time hours, get a letter from your employer confirming this.
If you have a gap in employment due to maternity leave, provide a brief written explanation.
Lenders appreciate clarity and transparency.
7. Apply with Flexible Lenders
This is the most game-changing tip of all.
Not all lenders treat part-time or casual workers the same way.
Some major banks have strict policies, while others are far more accommodating.
- Some lenders accept casual income with just 3 months’ history.
- Others require you to be in the job for 12 months.
The difference between approval and decline often comes down to choosing the right institution.
Expert Tip: Consult a broker who knows lender policies inside out to find the perfect match for you.
Best Lenders For Part-Time Workers in Australia
Finding the right lender is just as important as your deposit size.
Some banks are rigid, while others are surprisingly flexible with part-time and casual employment.
Below, we compare the major banks and specialist lenders to help you narrow your search.
Note: Policies change frequently. Always check with a broker for the latest criteria.
CBA is one of the most friendly banks for new employees.
They are known to accept casual income with as little as 3 months’ history in some cases.
For permanent part-time staff, they can even consider you on Day 1 of your new job.
They typically count 100% of your income, provided it is consistent.
If you have a strong overall profile, CBA is often a top pick.
National Australia Bank (NAB)
NAB is famous for its flexibility regarding probation periods.
They often approve loans based on your tenure with the employer, rather than your specific employment contract.
Generally, they prefer 6 months in a current casual role.
However, they allow you to average your income over multiple jobs if you have a continuous 6-month history.
NAB is a great option for first-home buyers looking for competitive rates.
Westpac & St. George Group
Westpac sits in the middle of the pack for flexibility.
They typically require 6 months of history for casual workers.
For permanent roles, they generally prefer you to have passed probation unless you have a strong prior history.
However, they can be flexible if you have a good credit score and stable income.
They may annualise your income from a shorter period (e.g., 4 months) if your earnings are consistent.
ANZ
ANZ is historically more conservative with employment tenure.
They usually require probation to be completed for permanent roles.
For casuals, they prefer 6 to 12 months of continuous employment in the same industry.
If you have a high LVR (small deposit), ANZ can be tough to qualify for.
They also tend to “shade” overtime and secondary income more heavily than other banks
Other Banks (Macquarie, ING, HSBC)
- Macquarie Bank: Popular for fast service. They generally want 6 months in a job but can be flexible if you have prior industry experience. They are great at annualising Year-to-Date income.
- ING: Tends to be stricter. They often prefer 12 months in your current job, especially for high LVR loans.
- HSBC: Usually requires 6 months and often wants probation completed.
Non-Bank & Specialist Lenders
If the major banks say no, specialist lenders can be a lifesaver. They cater to borrowers who don’t fit the standard “tick-box” criteria.
Pepper Money
Pepper takes a “real life” approach to lending.They will assess 100% of your casual income, overtime, and commissions.
This can significantly boost your borrowing power compared to a major bank. The trade-off is often a slightly higher interest rate.
Liberty Financial
Liberty is aggressive and highly flexible. They can sometimes lend up to 95% LVR for casual workers with just 3 months on the job.
They don’t always require a long work history if your income is strong. Expect rates to be 1–2% higher than the majors for these specialist policies.
Interest Rates vs. Approval Chances
Getting approved is critical, but you also want a competitive interest rate.
Sometimes, the lender who approves your part-time income may charge a slightly higher rate. This rate can be 0.50% to 1.00% higher than the lowest offer in the market.
This creates a strategic balancing act for borrowers.
The "Buy Now" vs. "Wait" Dilemma
You generally have two options:
- Buy Now: Accept a slightly higher rate to secure a property immediately.
- Wait: Delay your purchase for 6 months to qualify with a cheaper, traditional lender.
There is no “wrong” answer.
It depends on your urgency and current market conditions.
If property prices are rising fast, waiting six months could cost you more than the higher interest rate.
Major Banks vs. Non-Banks
Always compare the specific offers you qualify for.
- Major Banks: Often provide special cash rebates to offset setup costs.
- Non-Bank Lenders: Typically do not offer cashback but may waive application fees.
Expert Tip: Use A Mortgage Broker
Finding the sweet spot between a good rate and a sure approval is difficult on your own. Engage a mortgage broker who knows these lenders intimately.
We use up-to-date policy matrices to see exactly which banks accept your specific employment situation.
We can match you to the best lender and negotiate a better rate on your behalf.
Since using a broker costs you nothing, there is no downside to getting professional advice.
What Documents Do I Need For A Part-Time Home Loan?
Being prepared with the right paperwork is the fastest way to get approved.
Part-time and casual workers need to provide a few extra documents to prove income stability.
Here is your essential checklist to get “approval ready.”
1. Proof of Income (Payslips)
Most lenders require your two most recent payslips. If you are paid weekly, they may ask for three or four to cover a full month.
Ensure your payslips clearly show your hourly rate and employment status (e.g., Permanent Part-Time).
For Casual Workers:
Provide consecutive payslips covering at least 3 months Year-to-Date (YTD).
This allows the lender to “annualise” your income and calculate a fair average.
2. Employment Contract or Letter
If you are new to a job, this document is critical.
It confirms your specific terms, such as:
- Permanent or casual status.
- Probation period details.
- Minimum guaranteed hours.
If you don’t have a contract, ask your employer for a Letter of Employment. It should state your start date and current roster stability.
3. Tax Returns & PAYG Summaries
Lenders love consistency. If you are casual or have multiple jobs, lenders will want to see the “big picture.”
Be prepared to supply your ATO Notice of Assessment or PAYG Payment Summaries for the last 1 to 2 years.
This proves your annual income is stable, not just a recent spike.
4. Bank Statements
You typically need 3 to 6 months of statements for your everyday accounts and savings. Lenders analyze these to verify your income deposits and daily living expenses.
Warning: Cash-in-hand payments generally do not count as income unless declared on your tax return.
Bank all your wages to ensure they are counted.
5. Liability Statements
Do you have other debts?
Provide the last 3 months of statements for any:
- Credit cards.
- Personal loans.
- Car loans.
Transparency is key—lenders will see these on your credit file anyway.
6. Rental Ledger (For Renters)
If you are renting, ask your property manager for a rental ledger. Showing 12 months of on-time rent payments is a powerful trust signal.
It proves you can manage a regular financial commitment similar to a mortgage repayment.
7. Additional Income Evidence
Do not forget your other income sources.
These can significantly boost your borrowing power.
- Centrelink: Current Income Statement.
- Child Support: Child Support Agency letter and bank proof.
- Investments: Dividend statements or tax schedules.
Expert Tip: Don’t Skip the Blank Pages
It sounds simple, but it causes weeks of delays. When scanning bank statements, include every page, even the blank ones.
If a statement says “Page 1 of 4,” the bank must see all 4 pages.
Pro Strategy: Write a brief cover letter (or ask us to) explaining any anomalies.
Did your income drop in July due to a holiday? Explain it upfront to stop the bank guessing.
In summary: Thorough documentation is your best weapon against lender hesitation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Home Loans Part Time Employment
Can I use Family Tax Benefits to help get a home loan?
Yes. Many major lenders (such as CBA and NAB) accept Family Tax Benefit Part A and B as assessable income, which can significantly boost the borrowing capacity of part-time working parents.
Do part-time workers pay higher interest rates?
No. As long as you meet the lender’s servicing criteria and deposit requirements, you qualify for the same standard interest rates and packages as full-time employees.
Does Uber or DoorDash income count towards my home loan?
It can, but it is treated as self-employed income. Most banks require you to have an ABN and two years of tax returns showing this income before they will include it in your borrowing capacity.
How much can I borrow with a $50,000 part-time salary?
Borrowing capacity varies by lender and debts, but a single applicant earning $50,000 with no other debts could typically borrow between $250,000 and $320,000. Adding a partner’s income or reducing credit card limits will increase this amount.
I am on maternity leave. Do I have to wait until I return to work to apply?
No. Many lenders allow you to apply while on leave if you provide a letter from your employer confirming your return-to-work date and your future part-time salary.
Can I get a home loan with a 5% deposit if I work part-time?
Yes. Part-time workers are fully eligible for the First Home Guarantee (FHBG), which allows you to buy with a 5% deposit and pay no Lenders Mortgage Insurance, provided you earn under the income caps ($90k for singles).
How long do I need to be in my second job for it to count?
Generally, lenders want to see that a second job is sustainable. Most require a history of at least 6 to 12 months in the second role to prove you can handle the workload of two jobs over the long term.
Will overtime or penalty rates be counted at 100%?
Not always. While your base part-time salary is usually used at 100%, many lenders “shade” overtime or shift allowances, using only 80% of that income to account for potential fluctuations.
Next Steps And Getting Your Home Loan Approved
Are you ready to get a home loan as a part-time employee? Our team at Hunter Galloway is here to help you buy a home in Australia. Unlike other mortgage brokers who are just one-person operations, we have an entire team of experts dedicated to helping make your home loan journey as simple as possible.
If you want to get started, please give us a call on 1300 088 065 or book a free assessment online to see how we can help.
Start again
