Diversified non-bank lender, consumer finance provider.
Diversified non-bank lender: Latitude operates outside the traditional banking sector and offers a wide mix of lending solutions, spanning personal loans, credit cards, and other consumer finance products.
Non-bank consumer finance provider: Latitude provides credit and lending services directly to consumers without being a licensed bank, focusing on products such as personal loans, installment plans, and retail finance options.
Latitude is a diversified non-bank lender, offering personal loans, credit cards, interest-free payment plans, and insurance across Australia and New Zealand. With partnerships spanning top retailers like Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys, Samsung, and Apple, and a network of over 5,500 brokers, Latitude helps customers access finance when it matters most — from everyday purchases to major life events.
With more than 100 years of history, Latitude evolved from its roots in the Australian Guarantee Corporation and General Electric's finance businesses to become an independent brand in 2015. Listed on the Australian Stock Exchange in 2021, Latitude continues to provide consumers and partners with choice, competition, and innovative finance solutions beyond the traditional banks.
Latitude Financial Services is one of Australia and New Zealand's largest non-bank lenders, with a history that stretches back more than a century. Once part of General Electric's finance arm, it now operates independently and offers a wide mix of products including personal loans, car loans, credit cards, and retail finance. Its scale, brand familiarity, and strong retail partnerships have made it a common name for borrowers who want accessible finance without going through a major bank.
One of Latitude's biggest advantages is flexibility. Borrowers can choose between fixed and variable loans, secured or unsecured, with amounts ranging from $3,000 to $100,000 and terms of two to seven years. Latitude also stands out for financing older vehicles, allowing loans on cars up to 20 years old — something many traditional banks and fintech lenders won't do. It can also be more accommodating for borrowers with less-than-perfect credit histories, provided any issues don't involve existing Latitude facilities.
That said, the cost of borrowing through Latitude can be higher than with other lenders. Interest rates vary widely depending on your profile, starting from 9.49% p.a. but climbing to as high as 29.99% p.a., with comparison rates reaching above 31% p.a. On top of that, borrowers face a $395 establishment fee and a $13 monthly service fee. Fixed loans also carry an early repayment penalty of up to $500, which reduces only in the final months of the term. These costs mean Latitude is rarely the cheapest option in the market.
Overall, Latitude is best suited to borrowers who value an established, mainstream lender that offers flexibility, larger loan amounts, and access to retail finance. It may appeal to customers looking to finance an older car or those who want interest-free shopping options through big-name retailers. However, for borrowers focused on securing the lowest rates, minimal fees, or a frictionless digital experience, fintech competitors like Plenti, NOW Finance, or MoneyMe may be a better fit.
Latitude is a diversified non-bank lender operating across Australia and New Zealand, offering personal loans, car finance, credit cards, and interest-free retail payment plans. With roots tracing back more than 100 years and formerly part of General Electric's finance arm, it has grown into one of the region's largest consumer finance providers. Today, Latitude is best known for its partnerships with major retailers like Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi, and Apple, providing customers with flexible ways to borrow, spend, and manage big-ticket purchases outside of the traditional banking system.
Latitude offers personal loans that can be tailored to different borrowing needs, with amounts starting from $5,000 and terms ranging from two to seven years. Borrowers can choose between fixed or variable rates, secured or unsecured loans, giving some flexibility depending on whether stability or repayment freedom is the priority. Fixed loans provide predictable repayments but carry a $500 early termination fee if paid out before the last three months of the loan term, while variable loans offer redraw facilities and no early payout penalties.
Interest rates are broad, starting as low as 9.49% p.a. but reaching up to 29.99% p.a., with comparison rates ranging between 10.93% and 31.38% depending on the applicant's profile. Fees are a notable factor, with a $395 establishment fee and a $13 monthly service charge adding to the cost of borrowing. A typical example illustrates this clearly: borrowing $20,000 over seven years at 16% p.a. would mean weekly repayments of around $105 and a total repayment of more than $32,800, including over $11,000 in interest and fees.
The application process is straightforward, with customers able to check their personalised rate online in just a few minutes without affecting their credit score. Once approved, funds are typically released within 24 hours of signing the loan contract. Latitude also provides tools such as repayment calculators and budget planners to help customers understand their commitments before applying.
Customer feedback on Latitude personal loans is mixed. In Finder's 2024 and 2025 Customer Satisfaction Awards, Latitude scored 3.77 out of 5 overall, lower than the industry average, with customers noting ease of application and repayment flexibility as positives, but raising concerns about high rates, fees, and inconsistent customer service.
Latitude offers car loans that cater to a wide range of borrowers, including those financing older vehicles or with slightly imperfect credit histories. Unlike many banks and digital lenders that restrict vehicle eligibility, Latitude will consider cars up to 20 years old at the end of the loan term. This flexibility makes it a useful option for drivers looking at second-hand cars, motorcycles, or even other vehicles like boats and caravans.
Borrowers can choose between fixed and variable rate options, with interest rates ranging from 9.49% p.a. to 29.99% p.a. (comparison rates from 10.93% to 31.38% p.a.). Fixed loans offer stable, predictable repayments but carry a $500 early repayment fee if closed within the first half of the loan term. Variable loans, on the other hand, allow redraws on extra repayments and don't penalise early payout, though rates may change over time.
Fees are an important factor to keep in mind. A $395 establishment fee applies to most loans, alongside a $13 monthly service fee that adds $156 each year. Late payment fees of $40 and early termination fees of up to $750 (on some contracts) can further increase costs. For example, a $20,000 car loan over seven years at 16% p.a. would mean weekly repayments of around $105, with a total of over $32,800 repaid once interest and fees are included.
The application process is straightforward: customers can check their personalised rate online in just a few minutes without affecting their credit score, then apply digitally by submitting ID and proof of income. Once approved, funds are typically released within 24–48 hours. This makes the process relatively fast compared to some traditional lenders.
However, Latitude's customer satisfaction scores tell a mixed story. In Finder's 2024–25 Customer Satisfaction Awards, Latitude scored 3.63 out of 5 overall for car loans, below the industry average. Borrowers praised its broad eligibility criteria and repayment flexibility, but reviews often flagged slow account management, higher fees, and inconsistent customer service.
In summary, Latitude car loans may suit borrowers who value flexibility on vehicle age, want the option of secured or unsecured loans, and prefer the backing of a large, established lender. But for rate-sensitive customers or those prioritising streamlined service, newer fintech competitors may provide better value.
Customer experience is another mixed area. Finder's 2024 and 2025 Customer Satisfaction Awards show Latitude scoring below the industry average for trust and service, with many reviewers citing frustration with customer support, account fees, and repayment processes. While some customers report smooth approvals and convenience, others highlight delays in funding, confusing charges, and difficulty closing accounts.
In short, Latitude is a solid but not standout choice. It offers breadth, brand recognition, and flexibility, but comes with higher costs and customer service concerns that prospective borrowers should weigh carefully.
Before applying for a personal or car loan, it's reassuring to understand what you might be eligible for. With Latitude, you can get a personalised rate estimate in just two minutes without leaving a mark on your credit file.
Latitude's digital application process makes it simple: enter your details online, and your profile is securely assessed against Latitude's lending criteria. You'll see indicative rates and repayment options upfront, so you can make an informed decision before committing to a full application.
This approach means you can compare loan types, weigh up fixed or variable options, and plan your repayments with greater confidence. Whether you're looking to finance a new or used car, consolidate debts, or cover a major life expense, Latitude gives you clarity and choice without the worry of unnecessary credit enquiries.
Chantelle is amazing to deal with, nothing was too much trouble, she was thorough and extremely helpful and accommodating to my requests. Chantelle worked out the best solution for my personal needs to move forward with my life and she ensured I was informed every step of the way.? I cannot recommend Chantelle highly enough. A huge thank you Chantelle ?
Pan Bhandge was very efficient and professional. The transaction was seamless and fast I never have to worry about anything. I'm very very busy so that matters. Not only did I get a good fair deal, it saves me from looking around.
Thank you Pan. You deserve the five star
Pan was a great help in finding me the right personal loan. He always kept me up to date with the process and was alway available should I have any questions. I really recommend Loan Options. Excellent service thanks again Pan ?
Great service quick and easy so much better than a big bank ???
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