Australia
How Credit Scores Work in Australia: What Lenders See and How to Check Yours
Comprehensive credit reporting means lenders now see repayment history, not just defaults.
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- Scale
- 0-1,200 (varies by bureau)
- Bureaus
- Equifax, illion, Experian
- Free report
- Required by law
- New factor
- Repayment history since 2014
Repayment history is now visible
Since comprehensive credit reporting, monthly on-time payments are shared. That helps a clean file and hurts a careless one.
One missed payment is disproportionate
A 14-day late payment can cut a score by 100 points or more. Automate minimums on every account.
Get your free report
Each bureau must supply one free every 12 months. Check all three - a wrong default at one bureau is invisible at the others.
Utilisation still matters
Under 30% of each limit, ideally under 10%. It is the fastest lever you control.
VerdictAutomate payments, keep utilisation low, and pull all three free reports. Repayment history is the score now.
FAQ
What is a good score?▾
About 700+ is strong; 850+ gets the best pricing.
Does a credit enquiry hurt?▾
A little, for around 12 months.
Can I dispute an error?▾
Yes, free, through the bureau.
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