What Documents Do I Need When Applying for a Mortgage in Australia?

When you’re applying for a home loan in Australia, being organised with your paperwork can make a big difference — both in how quickly your loan is approved and whether you’re seen as a strong borrower.

As a local mortgage broker and buyer’s agent, I guide my clients through both sides of the property journey — helping you find the right property and secure the finance to buy it. I take care of the strategy, structure, and paperwork so you can focus on the bigger picture.

Here’s a full list of what you’ll usually need when applying for a mortgage in Australia, whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or investing.

1. Proof of Identity

Lenders are required to verify your identity under Australian lending laws (KYC and AML regulations). You’ll need to provide:

• A valid Australian driver’s licence or passport
• Medicare card or birth certificate
• Visa or residency details (if you’re not an Australian citizen)

2. Proof of Income

Why? To show lenders you have the financial capacity to repay the loan.

Depending on how you earn your income, documents can include:

If you’re employed (PAYG):

• Recent 2–3 payslips
• Income statement or group certificate
• Bank statements showing salary deposits

If you’re self-employed:

• Personal and business tax returns (last 2 years)
• ATO Notices of Assessment
• BAS (if requested)
• Your accountant’s contact details

If you receive other income (e.g. rent, super, Centrelink):

• Rental income statements or lease agreement
• Centrelink benefit summary
• Superannuation income documentation
• Evidence of dividends, investments, or trust income

3. Proof of Expenses and Liabilities

Why? So lenders can calculate your actual borrowing power after regular commitments.

You may need to provide:

• Credit card statements (typically last 3 months)
• Loan statements for car loans, personal loans, or other debts
• Buy Now Pay Later accounts like Afterpay, Zip, etc.
• Details of any HECS/HELP debt

4. Bank Statements

Why? Used to verify your savings habits, cash flow, and financial stability.

These help lenders see your real spending patterns and how well you manage your money:

• 3–6 months of main transaction account statements
• 3 months of savings account statements (if using savings as deposit)
• Offset account or redraw statements (if refinancing)

5. Proof of Deposit

Why? Lenders need to know where your deposit is coming from and if it meets their criteria.

Especially important if you’re borrowing more than 80% of the property value. You may need:

• Savings account history (to show genuine savings)
• Gift letter (if receiving financial help from family)
• Evidence from sale of another property
• Confirmation of First Home Owner Grant eligibility (if applicable)

6. Property Details (if already found one)

Why? Lenders assess the property to ensure it meets their lending policies and valuation standards.

If you’ve already chosen a property, provide:

• Signed Contract of Sale
• Property brochure or online listing
• Rental appraisal (if it’s an investment property)
• Building and pest reports (optional, but helpful)

Final Thoughts

Having these documents ready makes your home loan application smoother, faster, and stronger. As both your mortgage broker and your buyer’s agent, I’m here to take the pressure off every step of the way — from loan pre-approval to property shortlisting, negotiations, and settlement.

Whether you’re a first home buyer, investor, downsizer, or looking to grow your portfolio, I offer tailored support to help you buy smart and borrow well.

Ready to Move Forward?

Let’s make it easy. Book a quick call with me to discuss your goals. I’ll guide you through the mortgage paperwork, help you understand your borrowing capacity, and — if you’re still searching — help you find the right property too.