Can You Buy a House with Bad Credit in Australia?

Can You Buy a House with Bad Credit in Australia? Buying a home is a dream for many Australians — but if you have a bad credit score, it might feel out of reach. The good news? You might still qualify for a home loan, even in 2025. Here’s what you need to know. What Is Considered Bad Credit? In Australia, a credit score below 600 is often considered “subprime” by lenders. Missed payments, defaults, bankruptcies, or too many credit applications can all drag your score down. Can You Still Get a Loan? Yes, but it’s not easy. Some lenders, especially non-conforming or specialist lenders, offer “bad credit home loans” — often with stricter terms and higher interest. What Lenders Look For Stable employment and income Larger deposit (at least 20% preferred) Explanation of your credit history (e.g. illness, divorce) Improved recent repayment behavior Tips to Increase Your Chances Pay off existing debts and clean up your credit file Save a higher deposit — it sh...