Heavy Machinery Finance vs Leasing: What’s Best for Your Business?
- brock88315
- Jul 22
- 4 min read

When you’re running a business that relies on heavy-duty gear—whether in construction, mining, agriculture, or transport—getting the right equipment is essential. But how you pay for that equipment is just as critical. If you’re unsure whether heavy machinery finance or leasing is the better option for your operation in the Gold Coast or South East Queensland, this guide is for you.
At Millard Financial, we specialise in tailored equipment finance solutions for a wide range of industries. Whether you’re after excavator finance, truck loans, or need to upgrade your manufacturing machinery, we help businesses access the gear they need—quickly and competitively.
What’s the Difference Between Financing and Leasing Heavy Equipment?
Let’s break it down.
Heavy Machinery Finance
When you finance heavy equipment, you’re essentially taking out a loan to purchase it outright. The equipment becomes an asset of your business, and you repay the loan over an agreed term.
Benefits of heavy machinery financing include:
Ownership at the end of the term
Potential tax deductions (check ATO asset depreciation)
Flexible repayment options
Useful for businesses looking to build equity
At Millard Financial, our heavy equipment finance options are designed to support growth. Whether you’re upgrading your fleet or investing in mining equipment finance, we can structure terms that work with your cash flow.
Popular machinery finance services:
Heavy Machinery Loans
Plant and Equipment Financing
Heavy Machinery Leasing
On the flip side, machinery leasing allows you to use equipment without owning it. You make monthly payments to a lender or supplier for the use of the machinery, often with the option to upgrade or buy it at the end.
Benefits of leasing include:
Lower upfront costs
Easier access to newer equipment
Predictable monthly expenses
Ideal for short-term or project-based needs
Common leasing scenarios in Queensland:
Machinery leasing in Queensland for seasonal agricultural work
Fleet equipment leasing for construction projects
Short-term crane hire or earthmoving equipment on job sites
How to Choose: Lease or Finance?
Your decision depends on your industry, the type of equipment, and your financial goals.
Here’s a quick guide:
Business Need | Best Option |
Long-term investment | Finance |
Short-term project use | Lease |
Tax deduction via depreciation | Finance |
Lower monthly payments | Lease |
Equipment upgrades every few years | Lease |
Asset ownership and resale value | Finance |
For example, construction companies on the Gold Coast often prefer financing for core gear like excavators, while mining firms in South East QLD may lease specialist equipment to meet seasonal demand.
Why Businesses in Gold Coast & SE Queensland Choose Millard
From Burleigh Heads to Bundaberg, business owners trust Millard Financial for fast, flexible equipment finance solutions tailored to their needs. We cut through the red tape, saving you time, money, and stress.
We provide:
Fast approvals with minimal paperwork
Access to Australia’s top-tier lenders
Equipment finance for new and used machinery
Transparent terms with no hidden fees
Customised loans for sole traders to large enterprises
Whether you're applying for a heavy equipment loan, fleet equipment financing, or bus finance, we’ve got you covered.
What Qualifies for Heavy Equipment Finance?
If you’re wondering what qualifies for machinery finance, the good news is: most business-critical gear does.
Equipment we regularly finance:
Buses & Coaches
CNC Machines and Factory Tools
Agricultural Tractors and Harvesters
Mining Drills and Rock Crushers
Need to finance used heavy equipment? We do that too.
For more guidance, the Australian Government’s Business website has a guide to equipment finance that outlines what lenders typically assess.
FAQs About Heavy Equipment Finance
What are typical terms for heavy equipment loans?
Most terms range from 2 to 7 years, depending on the asset’s lifespan and your financial profile.
Is leasing or financing better for equipment?
Financing is great for ownership; leasing is better if you want flexibility and lower upfront costs.
How do I apply for heavy equipment finance?
You can apply online or speak to our experts directly. We assess your needs, income, and goals to find a custom solution.
Are heavy equipment financing rates competitive?
Yes. Millard Financial partners with leading heavy machinery finance companies to offer the most competitive rates available.
Can I finance machinery as a small business?
Absolutely. We assist small operators, tradies, and sole traders right across the Gold Coast and South East Queensland.
Ready to Upgrade Your Equipment?
Millard Financial is here to support your business with equipment finance for businesses across Gold Coast and South East Queensland.
Whether you need new machinery or want to compare heavy equipment financing rates, our team is ready to help.
Helpful Resources:
Let Millard Financial help you make the smart move—on the ground or in the air.
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