The Role of Credit Scores in Loan Applications in Australia Credit scores are a key factor in loan applications in Australia, influencing both your ability to secure a loan and the terms (such as interest rates) you are offered. Lenders use credit scores to assess the risk of lending money to an individual, helping them determine whether you are likely to repay the loan on time. Here’s what you need to know about how credit scores impact loan applications in Australia. 1. What Is a Credit Score? A credit score is a numerical representation of a person’s creditworthiness, based on their credit history and behavior. It ranges from 0 to 1,200, with higher scores indicating better creditworthiness. In Australia, the three main credit reporting agencies— Equifax , Experian , and illion —generate these scores. A higher credit score means a lower perceived risk for lenders, while a lower score suggests a higher risk, which could make it more difficult to secure a loan or result in highe...