Future of Sustainable Business Loans: Financing Green Equipment

Explore the future of sustainable business loans and how financing green equipment can drive your business towards a sustainable and eco-friendly future with Metro Finance.

Why Sustainability Matters in Business Finance

Sustainability is a key consideration for both business and consumers. Now more than ever, looking at business operations through the lens of being more environmentally conscious and sustainable has become paramount, but the impacts of this can be felt beyond shifting consumer preferences and public reputation: sustainability also has the power to drive efficiency and even put money back into the pockets of business owners. 

The world is moving towards a greener economy, placing greater importance on businesses’ environmental and societal impacts than ever before. New technologies, systems and processes are helping businesses drive their own sustainable outcomes, with financing playing an important role in enabling this transition. 

In this blog we’ll take-a-look at sustainable business loans, and what they could mean for securing a range of sustainable assets.      

What Are Sustainable Business Loans?

In a nutshell, as the name suggest, a sustainable business loan is a form of financial product designed to support the acquisition of a range of sustainable assets to help businesses on their journey to reduce their environmental impact. This can include assets such as electric vehicles (EVs), chargers, solar panels and batteries, and even agricultural equipment and forklifts. 

Sustainable business loans often offer discounted rates, and sometimes even more flexible terms than other business loan products. Thanks to a variety of State and Federal Government incentive programs, businesses may be able to purchase sustainable assets at a reduced rate or have things like stamp duty or fringe benefit tax (FBT) waived, making them more attractive than other assets. 

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Benefits of Financing Green Equipment

Aside from the immediate cost savings often attributed to sustainable assets, there are several other key advantages when it comes to financing green equipment, including:

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Many sustainable assets either consume less energy overall, or are powered by cheaper renewable fuel sources, such as electricity when compared to fossil fuels – this helps businesses save money. 
Having the ability to recharge assets like electric vehicles on-site is also a benefit in reducing downtime, as they can recharge while the driver is at work or overnight when not in use during cheaper off-peak periods.  

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Many of today’s consumers are conscious of their own environmental footprint and will align themselves with businesses that are doing their part to tackle sustainability too. In a recent Metro business survey 35.7 percent of respondents believed their business was well-respected in the community because of its sustainability efforts, while 26.4 per cent cited customers seeing sustainable business as industry leaders.

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State and Federal Government, along with various industry and sector bodies, are implementing a range of regulations to bring down Australia’s carbon emissions and encourage the uptake or greener technologies. Sustainable assets can help businesses meet their sustainability obligations and adhere to any current or future regulations that may come into force, potentially also avoiding future fines or additional charges incurred on less-sustainable technologies.

How Sustainable Business Loans Work

Let’s now take-a-look at the ins and outs of how to apply for a sustainable business loan with Metro’s MetroEco product:

Eligibility Criteria for Green Financing

Aside from applying to a relevant sustainable asset such as an electric vehicle, there may be specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet in order to secure a loan from a lender. Lenders may have different eligibility requirements depending on the finance product you choose. Eligibility requirements usually apply for both the asset whether it’s new or used, as well as the person or business applying. To find out more about eligibility with MetroEco, head here.

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Application Process: What Businesses Need to Know

Once you meet the eligibility requirements, it’s time to apply for a business loan. Here are some things you need to know before making an application:

Credit History: Your credit history plays a significant role in the loan evaluation process. For example, when applying for finance with Metro, we consider factors such as credit score, payment history, and credit utilisation.

Loan Amount and Term: Metro assesses the loan amount being requested and the proposed loan term. The loan term is evaluated to ensure that it is reasonable and feasible for the borrower to repay the loan within the given timeframe.

Repayment Ability: When assessing a loan application, most lenders will also look at the applicant’s financial capability to make regular payments for the duration of the loan term.

To find out more, head to the MetroEco page or talk with one of our friendly brokers. 

Future Trends in Sustainable Business Finance

Growing Demand for Eco-Friendly Business Models

Make no mistake, sustainability is fast becoming a major consideration for all types of businesses, both in Australia and around the world. New technology is playing a large part in making businesses more efficient and in some instances, saving them money. There is growing demand with consumers and business partners for eco-friendly business models, representing environmental and societal benefits.

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Innovative Financing Solutions for Green Investments

Just as sustainability is introducing new ways of doing business, so too is it creating new financing solutions. Tapping into a range of government incentives and discounts, financiers like Metro are able to access government funds to help consumers and businesses finance green equipment, offering them attractive finance rates and flexible loan terms.  

Why Choose Metro Finance for Sustainable Business Loans?

There are lots of reasons to consider Metro Finance for its sustainability-linked loans, with a range of innovative products and offers to suit your needs. Some of the main benefits of a Metro business loan include:

Tailored Financing Solutions

At Metro, we understand that every business is unique, and their requirements from an asset finance offer are just as diverse. We pride ourselves on offering individual tailored solutions for our customers, and our broker partners go the extra mile to ensure that Metro customers get the best deal possible. 

Expertise in Green Equipment Funding

As an award-winning non-bank lender, we constantly strive to do things differently. Our MetroEco product, designed to support the purchase of a range of sustainable assets, is the first of its kind in Australia, and we are very proud to be leading the charge (pun-intended) with the Australian Government to support Australia’s transition to a more sustainable future.

Get Started with Sustainable Financing Today

Just as there are a range of sustainable technologies on offer to suit your business, there are lots of finance options to choose from as well.  To find out more about sustainable business finance at Metro, start a conversation with one of our friendly brokers who will be able to provide advice and support.

Getting the Most out of a Novated Lease

A bit of careful consideration now can get better returns later…

A novated lease is a great way to get into the vehicle of your choice, while at the same time taking advantage of a range of money-saving benefits as part of your lease.

As we’ve talked about before, a novated lease is offered through your employer via a service provider, with the lease paid from your salary before tax; thereby potentially reducing the amount of tax you have to pay. Another financial benefit of novating leasing is you don’t pay GST on the car you purchase, or its running costs – once again, potentially putting more money in your pocket.

However, there is another major benefit of a novated lease over other means of acquiring a vehicle, and the answer lies in residual value. 

What is a residual value?

In the case of a novated lease, the residual value of a vehicle is what the vehicle is worth at the end of a lease term, which is set by the Australian Tax Office (ATO). This is calculated by a number of factors, including: 

  • Market desire for that particular vehicle (e.g. Toyota RAV4), based on previous sales in your city and state 
  • Assumed wear and tear on the vehicle over the term of the loan

Knowing your vehicle’s expected residual value at the end of its lease term, which will then inform how much money you need to pay to your lease provider if you decide to keep your vehicle. This is known as a balloon payment. 

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About ATO residual value percentages

The ATO has guidelines on residual values based on a minimum percentage of the vehicle cost over the lease term. 

These percentages can be lower if the value of the vehicle is likely to be less at the end of the lease term – usually because you intend to add a lot of mileage to the vehicle. This is typically discussed and agreed to by all parties at the time of starting a new lease. 

A few things to remember

You don’t have to keep your vehicle at the end of its lease term. The great thing about a novated lease is the flexibility it can offer – you can also choose to start a new lease with a new vehicle; it’s completely up to you.

If you do choose to keep your vehicle (having formed an unbreakable bond with it over your time together – we get it…) you can opt to pay the previously agreed balloon payment to your lease provider, or even apply to re-finance the amount owing.

Typically, novated leases cost less than a standard car loan or purchasing a vehicle outright; but many use novated leasing as a way to recoup even more money by selling their vehicle privately or to a dealer at current market value – which is often higher than the agreed residual value set at the beginning of a lease. 

Here are some ways that you can ensure the highest possible return for your vehicle at the end of a novated lease:

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Do your research before you buy

By choosing a popular vehicle from a well-known brand you’re already setting yourself up for future resale success.

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Think about the resale value

Just because you like lurid green cars with purple interiors doesn’t mean that many others will. If you intend on selling your vehicle at the end of its lease, specifying it with options and features that have universal appeal is the best strategy. 

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Take good care of your vehicle


Remember, it’s not just age and kilometres that determine residual and resale values. Having a regularly, and correctly, maintained vehicle free from damage dramatically improves its value.

What to do next

Interested to know more about how a novated lease might work for you? It’s important to consider all your options when deciding on whether a novated lease is right for you. Talk to your employer and your accountant first to understand the pros and cons that relate specifically to your financial position before making any decisions. 

EV Novated Leasing Guide

Discover the benefits of an EV novated lease. Compare leasing vs. buying to find the best option for you. Learn more now!

Novated Lease for EVs: A Smarter Way to Drive

The automotive industry is undergoing a technological revolution, with a range of new vehicle types and energy sources to choose from. Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as the most popular and readily-available of these new forms of mobility, using batteries to power electric motors, either partially (known as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, or PHEV) in combination with a traditional internal combustion engine, or fully using electricity to charge its batteries. 

Just as there are a bunch of options to choose from when it comes to EVs, there are a number of ways to get into an electric vehicle of your own. In this blog we’ll take a look at novated leasing for electric vehicles and talk about some of things you should know if you’re considering one. 

What is an EV Novated Lease?

A novated lease, arranged through a salary packaging provider, allows employees to drive the car they want while maximizing their tax savings. The salary packager facilitates a seamless three-way agreement between the employee, their employer, and a financier like Metro Finance. With lease payments deducted from pre-tax income, employees can enjoy the benefits of a new or used vehicle while reducing taxable income—making salary packaging a smart and cost-effective way to drive.

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How Does Novated Leasing for EVs Work?

Much like a novated lease for any other type of car, a novated lease for an EV will typically include all of the vehicle’s running costs in the monthly lease payments, including things like registration, insurance, maintenance, and even charging costs. 

Benefits of Choosing a Novated Lease for an Electric Vehicle

Let’s take a look at some of the key benefits when it comes to leasing an EV:

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Tax Savings

There are lots of benefits to novated leasing – including consistency of payments to improve cashflow – but the main benefits employees enjoy with novated leasing is the reduction to their pre-tax income via lease repayments, which could reduce their tax liabilities while also taking advantage of additional benefits when leasing an EV over a petrol or diesel-powered car. 

In recent years, State and Federal governments have offered motorists a range of financial incentives to promote the uptake of electric vehicles, making them more affordable than ever to buy or lease. Metro has its own financial product, MetroEco, which offers a range of discounts and flexible terms for sustainable technologies, including EVs. Through a broker, you can explore how MetroEco can help you save on an EV with a loan or lease tailored to suit your needs.

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Bundling EV Running Costs

A popular feature of a novated lease electric vehicle is the bundling of the running costs into one regularly monthly pre-tax payment. All the associated costs of keeping an EV on the road are usually factored in: registration, insurance, servicing and maintenance, and even charging at public-facing charging stations. 

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Reduced Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT)

A recent initiative of the Federal Government is the waiving of fringe benefits tax (FBT) for zero or low-emission vehicles, including any associated running costs. This makes EVs a popular option for employers to offer their employees under salary packaging. If you are interested in salary packaging solutions, you can also explore our commercial finance packages.

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Fixed, Predictable Payments

For many, the predictability of payments is a standout feature of novated leasing, which can help with household budgets and cashflow management. Depending on the type/s of salary packaging offered by your employer, you might also have the option to lease additional vehicles for your immediate family – which once again would contribute to one, monthly bundled pre-tax payment also covering all major vehicle expenses.

Novated Lease vs Buying Electric Cars

Ownership and Flexibility

Put simply, the biggest difference between EV ownership and novated leasing is all in the name: by purchasing a vehicle, either outright or via a loan, you own the vehicle and are responsible for covering all of its expenses; whereas with a novated lease you don’t own the vehicle at the end of the lease term, unless you choose to purchase it.

For many, leasing a vehicle – which is a depreciating asset – is preferable to owning a vehicle that requires constant upkeep and on-road costs. At the end of the lease term, you also have the option to choose a new vehicle and start another lease, meaning that you could be in a new car sooner and more regularly than owning one outright.

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Tax Benefits and Salary Packaging

If you’re comparing EV buy vs lease options, understanding the tax savings and bundled costs of a novated lease is key. Because lease payments are made by your employer from your pre-tax income, it can reduce your taxable income and net you additional tax savings, more than if you had purchased the vehicle.

Out-of-Pocket vs Pre-Tax Costs

Bundling an EV’s running costs into your pre-tax income also helps keep more money in your pocket while enabling predictable cashflow management; meaning you’re not up for more expenses that need to be paid from your income after-tax. 

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Is an Electric Vehicle Novated Lease Right for You?

Just as there are a multitude of car brands to choose from, there are just as many vehicle financial options available when it comes to getting into the EV of your dreams. A novated lease EV is a popular option for many as they bundle the lease and running cost payments into one monthly pre-tax transaction, netting a range of benefits and providing greater transparency when it comes to managing a budget. 

A novated lease EV could be your most cost-effective path to electric driving. So If you’re thinking of getting behind the wheel of an EV through a novated lease, talking to your employer is a great place to start. One of Metro’s friendly brokers will also be able to answer any questions you may have about Metro’s novated leases and other financial products, as well as filling you in on any current government incentives and savings to promote EV uptake. 

Start a conversation with a Metro broker by clicking the link here

Novated Leases Explained

Need a car? 

For many of us, having access to our own vehicle is more than a nice-to-have, it’s an essential part of our lives and the jobs we do.

However, there is more than just one way to get into a vehicle of your choice – aside from purchasing outright, getting a loan or entering a guaranteed future value (GFV) programme offered by a manufacturer, a novated lease may be just the ticket to getting you into the car you want, and benefiting from potential tax savings in the process. 

So, what is a novated lease?

With a salary packaging provider, your vehicle costs are bundled into your pre-tax income. They work with your employer to deduct payments and make car repayments to a financier like Metro Finance on your behalf. This setup, known as novated leasing, can help reduce your tax liability and save you money.

Both car loans and novated leases can help you get into a new or used vehicle. However, with a novated lease, your employer makes payments directly to the leasing company, streamlining the process for you. Plus, unlike a standard car loan, a novated lease allows you to bundle running costs—like fuel, maintenance, and insurance—into one convenient, tax-effective package.

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Sounds great, how do I get one? 

First things first, you need to talk to your employer about novated leasing and what options they may have available for employees – in most instances, new employees would need to complete their probation period before being able to access novated leasing if its offered. It’s also a good idea to talk to your accountant about how the potential lease may affect your future tax payments. 

From there, if your employer offers novated leasing as an employee benefit, the leasing provider takes care of the heavy lifting. They work with your employer to gather relevant details—such as your income, expenses, and living circumstances—and guide you through the process, including a credit check, to get you on the road faster.

Once approved, your lease agreement between you, your employer and the finance provider is set-up before you buy a car (or have one purchased for you by the financier). The agreement will include things like lease duration, how many kilometres you intend to drive each year and, of course, the type of car you’re keen on buying.

What are the benefits of novated leasing?

In short: saving you money. Because your novated lease would be paid from your salary before tax, it could potentially reduce the amount of tax you have to pay. Another financial benefit is you don’t pay GST on the car you purchase, or its running costs – once again, potentially putting more money in your pocket. 

The other big benefit is the flexibility of not owning the car outright (which you can still do by paying any agreed amount owing at the end of the lease term), and knowing how much it will cost you month-to-month with set payments.

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Anything else I should know?

It’s important to consider all your options when deciding on whether a novated lease is right for you. Start a conversation with your colleagues and find out more about the leasing company your employer uses.

Career Growth & Wellbeing: A Day in the Life of Hannah from Metro Finance

At Metro Finance, we believe in fostering a culture that supports both professional success and personal well-being. 

Our team members bring their own unique approaches to maintaining a balanced lifestyle, and today, we’re stepping into the daily routine of Hannah from Finance. Having recently transitioned from Credit to Finance, Hannah embraces a growth mindset—both in her career and in the habits, she’s built outside of work, which help her stay focused and productive in the office.

Early Mornings and Setting the Tone for Success

For Hannah, mornings are sacred. “I love waking up early to exercise; it is my own uninterrupted time,” she shares. “Once I’ve done some training and had a coffee, my brain is switched on for a productive morning.” Whether it’s an intense workout or a mindful start to the day, establishing a routine that energises her is key to her success.

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Staying Active Throughout the Day

Hannah has built movement into her daily routine, ensuring she never goes too long without some form of physical activity. “I usually train early in the morning before work. If I haven’t had the opportunity to, it isn’t too difficult to find something close by.” Fortunately, Metro Finance’s culture makes it easy to stay active. “I’m lucky to work within a team that is quite health-conscious – so I’ll convince someone to join me for a run during lunch. Metro has a weekly run club and a mixed netball team. In addition, our building offers free Pilates classes, and there are some great gyms nearby.”

The Joy of Movement

Over time, Hannah’s exercise preferences have evolved. “I used to really love CrossFit and weightlifting, but over the last few months, I’ve become a fan of running. It’s nice to enjoy the sunrise and be outside before getting into work, and you can work it into your own schedule.” No matter the activity, the key is enjoying the movement and the benefits it brings.

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Unwinding and Recharging

After a busy workday, Hannah values simple pleasures. “Eating good food and hanging out with my dog is my way to unwind.” Finding time to relax and recharge is just as important as staying active.

Fitness Challenges and Team Activities

Metro Finance encourages participation in health-focused events, and Hannah is always up for the challenge. “There are a couple of events each year at Metro that are fun to work towards. There’s the JP Morgan Corporate Challenge in October, which becomes quite competitive. My favourite to date was the Bloomberg Square Mile Relay, where we competed as a team of 10. It’s great to have team-building activities that are wholesome based.”

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Work-Life Balance: A Key to Wellbeing

For Hannah, maintaining balance isn’t just about scheduling workouts—it’s about setting meaningful goals in and outside of work. “I think it’s important to have goals both in and outside of work to give purpose to your day and contribute to your overall mental health. It’s good to have a mix of fun and achievement.”

Advice for a Balanced Lifestyle

Hannah’s best advice for anyone looking to improve their fitness routine while juggling a busy schedule? “Find something you enjoy and stick to it. People will always have opinions on what the best exercise and wellness routine is – but at the end of the day, if you find something you enjoy, you’ll keep making time for it.”

At Metro Finance, we celebrate the many ways our employees prioritise health and well-being in their daily lives. Whether it’s running, weightlifting, team sports, or simply stepping away for a walk, we’re committed to fostering an environment where our people can thrive—both inside and outside the office.

Stay tuned for more Day in the Life stories from the Metro Finance team!

Putting the human touch in AI

Metro’s new Head of Operations, Bernadette Leyva-Vorn, is utilising new technologies to streamline operations, enabling the Metro team to spend more time with customers

As one of Australia’s most innovative non-bank lenders, Metro Finance continues to be at the forefront of utilising new technologies, processes and systems, as part of its mission to deliver high-quality customer services and solutions; many of which have already been recognised by the finance industry with awards and accolades for both the Metro business and its amazing people. 

Leading Metro on its journey as a continued innovator in its customer-led approach is Head of Operations, Bernadette Leyva-Vorn, who recently joined the Metro team.

Bernadette, or Bernie, as she is known by her colleagues, sees a world of opportunity for the Metro business and its customers when it comes to technology.

“Since joining Metro my key focus has been to gain a deeper understanding of the operations of the business, with the purpose to drive, support and deliver initiatives that will optimise efficiency levels helping our people and ultimately providing an optimum experience for our customers,” Bernie says.  

One area that Bernie and her team are focused on is utilising artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to streamline tasks and processes – ultimately leading to faster turnarounds for customer enquiries, and allowing the Metro team, and its network of brokers, to provide better service across the board. 

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It’s not just customers taking note, either: recently Metro was named ‘AI Rookie of the Year’ in the Talkdesk CX innovator of the Year Awards – an accolade that shines a light on the efforts of the Metro team, as it continues to integrate smart technologies to drive better customer outcomes. 

Tiago Paiva, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Talkdesk, spoke recently on the Awards, and pointed towards Metro’s Rookie of the Year recognition as a sign of big things to come. 

“The CX market has undergone tremendous transformation in the last year, driven by increasing consumer expectations and rapid pace of innovation. No one understands the impact of that change more than this year’s CX Innovators Award winners. The successes and outcomes of their CX journeys are inspirational; these companies are, in many ways, role models for their industry peers. It is an honour to recognise Metro Finance as AI Rookie of the Year, and a privilege to have Talkdesk be an integral part of its customer experience,” they commented. 

From a Metro perspective, Bernie believes awards such as this provide a platform for the industry to celebrate its combined achievements, as well as learn from one another. 

“It’s a fantastic recognition of efforts by the team, and means that we are on the pathway to become better equipped to optimise the customer experience,” Bernie says. 

“Talkdesk features such as Copilot helps our people enhance the customer experience by providing assistance on calls and after-call work, by transcribing and summarising conversations. Over time, as the modelling builds out, the assistance will only get smarter around each customer journey which will in turn enhance the assistance for our people and our customers,” Bernie continues. 

And as for AI in general? Bernie believes there is great potential for the technology, when used to support human interactions. 

“AI is clearly a very advanced technology, and will get more sophisticated over time.  It will expand opportunities for innovation that will transform the industry amplifying efficiency levels across the entire value chain.”

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While the temptation for some businesses when using AI is to over-utilise: automating seemingly every process and removing human interaction from customer experiences; Metro is focused on retaining its personal touch, using AI instead to enhance person-to-person interactions, rather than reducing or removing them. Bernie believes that Metro’s customer-centric approach is the lender’s superpower, and one that she and her team strive to ensure it remains at the forefront of everything the Metro business does. 

“AI provides a lot of opportunities to gain efficiencies, and at Metro it is a means to help and support our people, enabling them to spend more time with customers and providing a better experience.”

To experience the Metro difference for your yourself (and to have a conversation with a real person!), talk to your Metro broker about a financial solution that is right for you.  

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