Government 0% Interest Business Loans Are Open Right Now!

The Government Just Opened Applications for 0% Business Loans. Are You Eligible?

If you're running a business in freight, logistics, fuel supply, manufacturing or agriculture and the past few months have felt financially suffocating, this one's for you.

As of 20 April 2026, the Australian Government has opened applications for zero-interest business loans under the Economic Resilience Program, funded through the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRF). It's a $1 billion scheme, and the loans are genuinely interest-free — the government wears the interest cost so you don't have to.

Here's what that means in plain terms: you borrow the money, you pay it back, but you're not charged a single dollar in interest. Not a discounted rate. Not a honeymoon period. Zero.

Why Does This Program Exist?

Australia is in the middle of a significant fuel supply shock that's pushing up costs across critical supply chains, such as freight, fertiliser, fuel, plastics manufacturing. The government's position is that these sectors are too important to let buckle under the pressure, so rather than waiting to see who survives, they're stepping in as a buffer.

This is part of a broader $2.55 billion fuel relief package, alongside measures like a temporary excise cut. The zero-interest loans are specifically designed to keep critical businesses operating while the disruption plays out.

Who Can Apply?

The scheme targets businesses operating in the sectors most exposed to the current crisis:

• Freight and logistics operators
• Fuel supply businesses
• Fertiliser companies
• Plastics manufacturers
• Other critical supply chain businesses

To qualify through a participating bank (the faster, simpler pathway), your business needs to have an annual turnover under $100 million. Larger businesses or those seeking higher amounts can apply directly to the NRF for tailored financing.

Your business also needs to meet the NRF's existing criteria of being solely or mainly Australian-based.

How Much Can You Borrow?

Through a participating bank: up to $5 million.

Loan terms are expected to run approximately seven years, giving you a manageable repayment structure without the pressure of short-term debt.

Unlike a grant, this money must be repaid in full, but the government covers the interest. Think of it as the cheapest possible business finance you'll ever access.

How Do You Apply?

Applications are now open through participating banks. ANZ has confirmed it is one of the delivery partners, with other major banks rolling out their processes now.

Your first step is to contact your bank directly and ask about the Economic Resilience Program. If you're unsure which banks are participating or want to understand how this loan interacts with your existing finance structure, that's exactly the kind of conversation worth having with a broker first.

This Window Is Only Open for Six Months

That's the part most people will miss. This isn't an ongoing program, the small business stream (turnover under $100 million) is only open for six months from the date applications launched.

If your business is in an eligible sector and you're feeling the squeeze, now is not the time to sit on it.

Not Sure If You Qualify? Let's Talk.

At Ferns Finance, I work with business owners who are navigating real financial pressures. If you're wondering whether this program applies to you, or how a zero-interest loan would sit alongside your existing debt, I'm happy to have that conversation.

[Book a free discovery call →]

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