Paddison posted an eight-under-par 62 to finish the third round today at 12-under 196 at Toowoomba, two ahead of a quartet tied for second, including Craig Scott, Kieran Pratt, Terry Pilkadaris and Nevin Basic.
The 30-year-old left-hander made his intentions clear early when he eagled the par four second hole and from there the momentum grew before Paddison eventually finished his round with a brace of birdies.
"I played fantastic, it's my lowest round ever in tournament golf even as an amateur," Paddison said.
His last four round win was in 2007 at the Allianz Open des Volcans - Challenge de France on Europe's secondary Challenge Tour, and he is confident he can add another tomorrow.
"All day today I was pretty relaxed and played some great golf, I mean I had six birdies and an eagle so there's nothing to complain about.
"I'm confident I can do much more of the same tomorrow. I just feel like I'm playing that well."
Paddison's compatriot Michael Hendry was prominent as well after he signed for a 65 which left him sharing sixth place just three shots behind the leader.
Of the other New Zealanders, Doug Holloway shot 71 to be tied for 30th at 205 and Hamish Robertson was another six shots back after scoring a 72.
