DARRYL JOHNSON
YOUR PARTNER IN
EQUIPMENT FINANCE
The true cost of downtime: How one breakdown can impact a business
Most businesses don’t realise how fragile their operations can be — until something stops working.
A vehicle doesn’t start.
A machine goes down.
A critical piece of equipment fails at the worst possible time.
At first, it feels like a short-term issue.
A repair, a delay, an inconvenience, a cost.
But in reality, downtime rarely ends when the equipment is fixed. For many businesses, one breakdown can trigger a chain reaction that lasts much longer.
Why 2026 will be the year of asset replacement for small businesses
For many Australian small businesses, equipment, vehicles, and machinery are the backbone of daily operations. And while businesses have spent the past few years navigating rising costs, interest rate changes, supply shortages, and unpredictable markets, 2026 is shaping up to be the year where asset replacement becomes not just beneficial – but essential.
Here’s why thousands of SMEs across Australia are planning major upgrades in 2026, and how smart finance strategies can help businesses stay competitive without straining cash flow.
Full-Doc vs Low-Doc Finance: Which is right for your business in 2026?
In 2026, Australian businesses are moving faster than ever. Opportunities don’t always wait for perfectly prepared financials — which is why choosing between full-doc and low-doc finance matters.
Both options can help fund vehicles, equipment, and machinery, but the right choice depends on your business structure, trading history, cash flow, and timing — not just how much paperwork you can produce.
What Affects Your Credit Score?
Your credit score plays a major role in your financial life — influencing your loan approvals, the interest rates you receive, and the finance options available to you. Whether you’re applying for a car loan, equipment finance, personal lending or business credit, your score matters.
Mid-Year Reminder: Instant asset write-off approved for 2026 — Is your business ready?
Australia’s small businesses are starting the new year with welcome certainty as the Instant Asset Write-Off has been locked in early for 2025–26 — bringing clarity, savings, and planning power to your 2026 strategy.
The Federal Government has officially passed the Instant Asset Write-Off for the 2025–26 financial year, allowing eligible businesses to immediately deduct the full cost of certain assets under $20,000.
Unlocking opportunity: How Aussie businesses are setting up for a big 2026
As 2025 draws to a close, it’s a fitting time to pause and appreciate the journey. This year, Australian businesses across every sector continued to show remarkable determination — navigating evolving market conditions, taking opportunities to invest in growth, and backing themselves to keep moving forward.
From small family operators to expanding fleets and regional enterprises, we’ve seen a shared mindset: keep building, keep improving, keep going.
Insurance Embargoes: what they mean for your equipment finance
What if your business-critical equipment is ready, but your insurance provider suddenly says “no” to cover? That’s the reality many face during insurance embargoes — and it could bring your equipment finance to an unexpected halt.
Year-end equipment finance strategies: Position your business for 2026
As 2025 winds down, many businesses are focused on holiday demand, reduced trading days, and tying up loose ends before the new year. But this period also presents a unique opportunity: the chance to review your equipment needs, refresh your finance strategy, and start 2026 in a stronger position.
Bundled equipment & technology finance: A smarter way to grow
When most businesses think about equipment finance, they picture the physical asset—like a truck, excavator, or tractor. But in today’s digital economy, the technology that supports your operations is just as important.
Many lenders now offer solutions for bundling equipment and technology into one integrated finance package or bundled finance solution. This can give your business a competitive edge.
Understanding your PPSR obligations: Key timing rules every business must know
When it comes to managing security interests through the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR), compliance isn’t optional — it’s a legal requirement. One area often overlooked by businesses is the strict timing rules that apply when ending a registration. Missing these deadlines can expose your business to penalties and reputational risk.
How pre-approval can give the upper hand in equipment purchases
When it comes to buying equipment, timing is everything. Whether it’s a truck, excavator, or specialist machinery, the best deals don’t hang around for long — and neither do auction lots. That’s where an equipment finance pre-approval can put you ahead of the competition.
At PMG Finance, we’ve seen time and time again how pre-approved clients secure their dream assets faster, negotiate better prices, and avoid missing out.
Bundled equipment & technology finance: A smarter way to grow
When most businesses think about equipment finance, they picture the physical asset—like a truck, excavator, or tractor. But in today’s digital economy, the technology that supports your operations is just as important.
Many lenders now offer solutions for bundling equipment and technology into one integrated finance package or bundled finance solution. This can give your business a competitive edge.
Top factors lenders assess in equipment loan applications
Ever wondered why some equipment finance applications are approved within a day, while others get delayed—or declined altogether?
The truth is that lenders aren’t just looking at one thing. They’re assessing your business from multiple angles—cash flow, asset type, ABN activity, and more. At PMG Finance, we’ve helped hundreds of Australian businesses—from tradies and contractors to farmers and fleet owners—get approved by presenting strong, well-prepared applications that tell your full story.
Can you get equipment finance with bad credit? What business owners should know.
If your credit history is less than perfect, don’t assume that equipment finance is out of reach. Many Australian business owners have had financial hiccups — whether due to the pandemic, supply chain disruptions, or personal circumstances. At PMG Finance, we believe those moments shouldn’t stop you from getting the tools you need to keep your business running.
The Importance of Preparing for a Cyber Attack: Protecting Your Business from Digital Threats
In today’s digital age, cyber threats are one of the biggest risks facing businesses of all sizes. Cybercriminals are constantly developing new ways to infiltrate systems, steal sensitive data, and disrupt operations. From ransomware attacks to phishing scams and data breaches, the consequences of a cyber-attack can be devastating—resulting in financial losses, reputational damage, and operational downtime.
What can be financed? More than you might think
When most people think of equipment finance, they picture big-ticket items like trucks, tractors, or excavators.
But at PMG Finance, we know today’s business needs are far more diverse — and so are your funding requirements. Whether you’re operating a farm, launching a retail store, upgrading a clinic, or expanding a construction site, the range of financeable assets is broader than you think.
Think equipment finance only covers heavy machinery? Think again. From drones and diagnostic tools to coffee machines and solar batteries — here’s what we can finance to help your business grow.
Why early communication with your Equipment Finance partner matters
Life is full of unexpected challenges, and financial difficulties can arise when we least expect them. Are you struggling with loan repayments or facing financial uncertainty? If so, one of the most effective steps you can take is early communication with your equipment finance partner.
Brokers are not just there to help you secure a loan—they’re also valuable partners in navigating financial hardships. Whether it’s due to personal circumstances, business struggles, or unforeseen expenses, staying proactive can prevent unnecessary stress and open up better financial solutions.
New Year, New Opportunities: Improve your position in the 2026 Financial Year
Think your past missed or deferred payments are holding you back? Here’s how to take control and start strong in the new financial year—with the right strategy and support.
At PMG Finance, we understand that securing finance isn’t always straightforward—especially when previous payment history may raise red flags for lenders. As we enter the 2025/2026 financial year, now is the ideal time to plan ahead, strengthen your financial position, and ensure you are ready when funding opportunities arise.
Beware of Equipment Finance Scams: How to Protect Your Business
Have you ever paid an invoice that looked real – only to find it was a scam and emptied your business account? Equipment finance scams are rising fast in Australia – and small errors can lead to massive losses. In today’s digital business environment, scammers are targeting Australian businesses with increasingly sophisticated equipment finance scams. For businesses that depend on high-value equipment, these scams can cause serious financial setbacks, impacting both cash flow and operations.
How to secure Finance for Reconditioned Equipment while ensuring Compliance in Australia
Looking to save money on equipment without compromising safety or legal compliance? Reconditioned equipment might be your golden opportunity – but only if you know how to secure finance the right way.
ATO Releases Updated Small Business Benchmarks: How Does Your Business Stack Up?
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has just rolled out its latest set of Small Business Benchmarks, offering valuable insights into performance standards across more than 100 industries. Whether you run a local café, manage a team of electricians, or own a hair salon, these benchmarks can provide a quick, informative snapshot of how your business compares to others in your field.
How to Protect Your Business from ATO Tax Debt Crackdowns in 2025
Get ahead of the ATO business tax debt crackdown. Ensure compliance to avoid penalties and support your business growth.
Insurance Embargoes Are Happening Right Now – Here’s How They’re Impacting Equipment Finance
Insurance embargoes are delaying equipment finance approvals. Learn how these restrictions impact funding and what steps to take to secure finance now.
Clever Ways to Cut Costs In Your Business
Cutting costs can often be the simplest way to improve your businesses profitability. Not only that, but cost-cutting strategies may assist safeguard the business’s long-term competitiveness. We’ve compiled a list of innovative ideas to start cutting costs in your business today.
Calculating Gross Profit & Net Profit for Business
Gross profit and net profit are important financial metrics in any small business, and knowing the difference between them is vital in understanding the performance of your business. Here’s what you need to know
Cyber Security – Practical Ways
The recent cyber-attacks on Optus and then Medibank have been good reminders to be vigilant when it comes to the security of your personal information. The Australian Government has established the Australian Cyber Security Centre, which includes some tips on how to keep your data safe online. Some of these are listed below:
Three assets you may not realise can help boost your cash flow
One of the biggest obstacles that prevents small and medium-sized businesses from growing and flourishing is cash flow shortages. Managing cash flow is a critical aspect of running a successful business. While many business owners focus on revenue streams and cost-cutting measures, there are often overlooked assets that can significantly contribute to boosting cash flow. One way small and medium-sized businesses can bridge the cash flow gap is to utilise key assets to obtain capital, some of which business owners may not even realise there are options.
Here are three hidden assets you can potentially tap into.
Debtor Days: What are they and why are they important?
If you’re a business owner, nobody has to tell you about the importance of cash flow. But many business owners overlook debtor days until working capital becomes stretched due to a late payment or unexpected cost.
Limiting the number of debtor days is vital for maintaining a healthy cash flow. It shows you how long you need to wait for the money owed that your business is counting on for its operations.
In this guide, we’ll outline what debtor days are and why they’re important. We’ll also reveal how to calculate debtor days and the steps you can take to get your customers to pay on time.
Benefits of Financing your Insurance Premium Funding
No doubt you’ve seen your business insurance premiums rising in recent years, However, are you aware of premium funding and how it might assist you in paying for these premiums?
The types of insurance your business may need vary from property, vehicles, workers’ compensation, public liability and product liability to professional indemnity, business interruption, cyber and possibly credit insurance.
Premium funding presents a valuable strategy for effectively managing your various annual insurance premiums and thereby optimising your cash flow. Managing cashflow is an important part of running any business. This can be particularly challenging when your insurance bill arrives.
One approach to resolving this issue is Insurance Premium Funding (IPF).
What is a balloon payment?
A balloon payment is an amount due in full to the lender at the end of the loan period, after all scheduled monthly loan repayments have been completed. This enables you to repay your loan over its term, at reduced monthly installments.
$20,000 Small Business Instant Asset Write-Off
In the 2023–24 Budget announced on 9 May 2023, the Australian Government introduced a temporary increase in the instant asset write-off threshold for small businesses. From 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024, small businesses with an aggregated turnover of less than $10 million will be able to write off the full cost of eligible assets that are valued at less than $20,000.
Preparing your cash flow for the End of the Financial Year (EOFY)
It’s crucial to begin the new financial year with a strong cash position to ensure your business’s ongoing success. This is especially important given the current economic environment, which includes high interest rates, inflation, and volatile operating conditions. To optimize your tax position, consider pre-paying some expenses from the next financial year in this current financial year or ensuring unpaid invoices from customers are settled before EOFY.
PMG Finance turns 40!
We are thrilled to share an incredible milestone with you – PMG Finance has just turned 40 years old! For four decades, we have had the honour and privilege of supporting businesses across Australia with their equipment finance needs. This achievement would not have been possible without the trust and loyalty of customers like you.
Boost Productivity: Innovate With Equipment Financing Solutions
In today’s competitive business landscape, innovation isn’t just a strategy but is becoming crucial for long-term success by embracing the latest in cutting-edge technology. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), accessing the latest technology and equipment can be a significant challenge if financial barriers stand in the way. However, with the right equipment finance solutions, businesses can leverage innovative tools and technologies to enhance productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness.
Let’s uncover how financing your equipment can propel your business forward:
Navigating Equipment Purchases from an Independent Seller: What You Need to Know
When it comes to acquiring new equipment for your business, purchasing from a non-registered dealer can sometimes be a practical and cost-effective option. However, this route comes with additional requirements to ensure that lenders have peace of mind and your financing process proceeds smoothly. At PMG Finance, we want to educate our customers on what to expect and how to prepare when buying equipment from a non-registered dealer.
Key To Growth: Develop A Strong Bond With Your Equipment Finance Broker
In the fast-paced world of business, having the right equipment can make all the difference. However, acquiring the necessary tools and machinery often requires a significant financial investment. This is where an equipment finance broker comes into play. At PMG Finance, we believe that building a strong relationship with your finance broker is not just beneficial but crucial for your business’s success.
Here’s why this relationship is so important yet often understated.
The Role of Credit History in Equipment Financing:
When it comes to securing equipment financing for your small or medium-sized business in Australia, one of the key factors lenders consider is your credit history. Understanding how your credit history impacts your financing options can help you better prepare and improve your chances of approval. Conversely, poor credit could result in a higher interest rate and/or the need to select a lower tier lender.
In this post, we’ll explore why credit history is important, how it affects your financing options, and steps you can take to build and improve your business credit.
Managing Risk in Business Finance
Business finance encompasses everything from daily operations to strategic investments, each vulnerable to various risks that can impact stability and growth. Understanding how to effectively manage risk in business finance is crucial for sustaining a business’s financial health amidst uncertainties.
Identifying Business Risks Business risks span across many factors such as market volatility, economic downturns, regulatory changes, operational inefficiencies, and unforeseen events like natural disasters and pandemics. While not all risks can be eliminated, they can be managed through proactive strategies
Maximizing Growth: Choosing the Best Loan for Your Small Business
In Australia’s dynamic economic landscape, securing the right funding is crucial for small enterprise owners aiming to sustain and expand their operations. While navigating the myriad of financing options can be complex, having the right insights will enable you to make well-informed decisions that drive your growth.
Equipment Finance Loans offer a lending solution designed to help businesses purchase or lease equipment, vehicles, or machinery. This blog post aims to provide comprehensive insights into business loans, guiding you to find the best fit for your needs.
Key Reimbursement Insights for Equipment Finance
When it comes to financing equipment for your business, reimbursement options can be a valuable tool. These options allow you to recoup costs for equipment you’ve already purchased, effectively turning a cash purchase into a financed asset. By freeing up capital and improving cash flow, reimbursement can provide greater flexibility and potential tax benefits. In this blog, we’ll explain how reimbursement works in equipment finance and how leveraging these options can enhance your business’s financial health and investment potential.
In this blog, we’ll explore what reimbursement means in the context of equipment finance and how your business can benefit from it.
Unlock Your Business Potential with Flexible Loan Options
Running a business comes with its share of challenges, but with the right financial solutions, you can turn those challenges into opportunities. Whether you’re expanding operations, upgrading your equipment, or managing cash flow, securing the right funding is key.
Facing a Large Balloon Payment? Act Fast with These Equipment Refinancing Tips
When financing equipment, many businesses choose to include a balloon or residual payment option in their credit arrangements, such as a Chattel Mortgage, Commercial Hire Purchase (CHP), or Lease. This allows for lower monthly repayments and flexibility throughout the loan term. However, at the end of the term, the balloon payment is due. At this stage, businesses need to determine the best approach to manage this payment.
Maximize your Bids: Loan Options for Purchasing Used Machinery at Auctions
With the rising costs of doing business. many operators are looking for cost-effective ways to manage expenses in 2024. Purchasing second-hand machinery at auctions can be a smart way to save money. Arranging financing for auction buys can be more complex than buying through a dealer.
The Value of Prompt Payments: Safeguarding Your Business Future
Paying your creditors on time is essential for maintaining strong business relationships and ensuring your company’s growth. Your primary creditors include the Australian Tax Office (ATO), financial institutions, and other creditors to whom you owe money.
Here’s why timely payments matter and some tips to help you manage them effectively.
From Country Roots to Statewide Success: Miles local Darryl Johnson Honoured as Westpac’s Broker of the Year
Darryl Johnson’s journey from a sheep farm at Columboola to the top of Queensland’s finance industry has been anything but ordinary. Born and raised in Miles, Darryl’s early years on the family farm instilled in him a deep respect for hard work and the resilience required to build a life on the land. Those lessons, coupled with his natural grit, have propelled him to become a leading figure in finance, recently recognised as Westpac’s 2024 Broker of the Year for Queensland.
ATO Interest Charge Deductions to Be Eliminated in 2025
Starting 1 July 2025, the Australian Government plans to eliminate tax deductions for interest charges from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), a move that could significantly impact taxpayers with outstanding debts.
With rising interest rates making General Interest Charges (GIC) and Shortfall Interest Charges (SIC) increasingly costly, businesses and individuals alike will face higher financial burdens—up to 47% for high-income earners. This change aims to encourage timely tax payments and discourage the use of ATO debts as short-term financing solutions. As taxpayers navigate this shifting landscape, it’s crucial to explore alternative debt options and understand the implications of these upcoming changes.
How to Protect Yourself from Bank Impersonation and Payment Redirection Scams
How to Protect Yourself from Bank Impersonation and Payment Redirection Scams
In today’s digital age, scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, exploiting technology and human psychology to deceive even the most vigilant among us. Criminals are using advanced tactics, such as impersonating trusted institutions or intercepting communications, to steal personal information and hard-earned money.
At PMG Finance, we are dedicated to educating our clients about these growing threats and providing actionable tips to safeguard their finances. In this blog, we’ll explore the rise of bank impersonation and payment redirection scams, and share practical steps to protect yourself and your business from falling victim.
Smart Financing Solutions: Purchase Used Machinery at Auctions with Confidence
With rising costs for Businesses, finding cost-effective solutions is being highlighted more than ever. One savvy strategy is purchasing second-hand machinery at auctions. While this approach can save significant money, financing auction purchases often requires a different approach compared to buying through traditional dealers. At PMG Finance, we simplify the process with flexible loan options tailored to your needs.
Sustainable Equipment Finance for Australian Businesses
As businesses across Australia focus on sustainability, transitioning to eco-friendly equipment has become a powerful way to reduce environmental impact while lowering long-term costs. By switching to eco-friendly machinery—like electric vehicles, fuel-efficient tractors, or solar-powered equipment—companies can save on fuel and reduce maintenance expenses. However, the upfront costs for these greener options can be expensive. By leveraging equipment finance, businesses can obtain vital tools while preserving their working capital.
For businesses in transport, agriculture, and construction, equipment financing provides a practical way to invest in eco-friendly upgrades. Discover how this type of sustainable equipment can enhance operations and how financing can support the transition to greener solutions.
Debunking Common Misconceptions About Equipment Finance
When it comes to equipment finance, many business owners hesitate due to misconceptions about equipment finance that simply aren’t true. At PMG Finance, we want to set the record straight so you can make confident, informed decisions for your business. Don’t let Myths hold your business back.
Let’s debunk three of the most common myths about equipment finance: