Best Mortgage Brokers Australia (2026) — Major Groups Compared
Australia has tens of thousands of licensed mortgage brokers — from large national franchise networks to independent local practitioners. This page provides an overview of the major broker groups in Australia, how they operate, and what to consider when choosing one.
Note: This article provides general, factual information about broker groups and how they operate. It is not a personal recommendation of any broker or group. The right broker for you depends on your individual situation, location and needs. Always verify credentials and seek multiple opinions.
Types of Mortgage Brokers in Australia
Before looking at specific groups, it helps to understand the different models:
| Type | How it works | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Franchise network | Independently owned branches operating under a national brand | Mortgage Choice, Aussie Home Loans |
| Independent broker | Individual or small business, often under an aggregator | Thousands across Australia |
| Online/digital broker | Technology-driven, digital-first application process | Lendi, eChoice |
| Aggregator-owned broker | Broker is employed directly by the aggregator | Some AFG and Connective models |
Major Broker Groups
Mortgage Choice
Type: Franchise network (owned by REA Group / realestate.com.au) Lender panel: 25+ lenders How it works: Individual franchise owners operate Mortgage Choice businesses across Australia. Each franchisee is an independent business owner operating under the Mortgage Choice brand and accreditation. Notable: One of Australia’s largest broker networks. REA Group acquisition (2021) has integrated digital tools. Find a broker: mortgagechoice.com.au
Aussie Home Loans
Type: Franchise/corporate hybrid (owned by CBA) Lender panel: Multiple lenders including Commonwealth Bank How it works: Aussie operates through a mix of owned stores and franchise brokers. As a CBA subsidiary, there may be a commercial relationship with CommBank products — your broker must still act in your best interest and should consider all panel lenders. Notable: One of the most recognised mortgage brands in Australia. Wide geographic coverage. Find a broker: aussie.com.au
Lendi
Type: Digital/online mortgage broker Lender panel: 35+ lenders How it works: Online application platform that matches borrowers to loans using technology. Human mortgage specialists are available via phone and video. Application process is largely digital. Notable: Technology-forward approach. Suitable for borrowers who prefer a self-directed, online experience. Lendi Group also owns Aussie Home Loans. Find a broker: lendi.com.au
eChoice
Type: Online broker/comparison service Lender panel: Multiple lenders How it works: Online mortgage comparison tool connected to a network of accredited brokers. Combines digital rate comparison with broker follow-up. Notable: Useful for initial research and comparison. Website: echoice.com.au
Tiimely (formerly Tic:Toc)
Type: Digital-first lender and broker How it works: Tiimely operates as both a lender and a broker service. Known for fast digital loan processing. Previously the broker arm operated under the Tic:Toc brand. Notable: Fast digital application and approval for eligible borrowers. Website: tiimely.com
Independent Mortgage Brokers
The majority of Australian mortgage brokers are independent practitioners — individuals or small teams operating under an aggregator’s licence. Many of the highest-rated brokers (based on Google reviews and client referrals) are independents with deep local and industry expertise.
Advantages of independent brokers:
- Direct access to the broker who works your file (not a large call centre)
- Local market knowledge
- Long-term relationship focus
- Often highly reviewed in their local market
Finding independent brokers: MFAA member search (mfaa.com.au/find-a-member), FBAA member search, or Google search with local suburb.
What the Major Aggregators Are (Not Brokers Themselves)
Australia’s aggregators are often confused with broker groups. Aggregators are the licence holders and technology providers that sit behind many brokers — they are not consumer-facing businesses.
| Aggregator | Estimated broker network size |
|---|---|
| AFG (Australian Finance Group) | ~3,800+ brokers |
| Connective | ~3,600+ brokers |
| FAST | ~1,000+ brokers |
| Vow Financial | ~600+ brokers |
| PLAN Australia | ~600+ brokers |
| Choice Aggregation | ~600+ brokers |
Most individual mortgage brokers you deal with will be operating under one of these aggregators — but you do not deal with the aggregator directly.
How to Choose Between Broker Groups
Rather than choosing a group or brand, focus on the individual broker you will be working with. Key factors:
- Credentials: ASIC licence verified, MFAA or FBAA membership
- Lender panel size: Access to the lenders relevant to your situation
- Experience: In your specific loan type (first home, investor, self-employed, etc.)
- Communication: Responsive, explains clearly, provides written disclosures
- Reviews: Verified Google reviews or referrals from trusted contacts
A Mortgage Choice franchisee and an independent broker operating from a local suburb office may provide equally excellent service — or not. The brand matters less than the individual broker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a broker from a major group better than an independent?
Not necessarily. Major group brokers have brand support, technology and training — but independent brokers often provide more personalised service and have deep experience in their niche. The individual broker’s qualifications, panel access and service quality matter more than the group name.
Does it matter who owns the broker group?
It matters in the sense of understanding any ownership conflicts. For example, Aussie Home Loans is owned by CBA, and Lendi Group owns Aussie — this does not mean your broker will favour CommBank products, as the best interests duty requires them to recommend the most suitable option. But you should ask your broker how their panel is structured and whether any ownership relationships exist.
What if I have a bad experience with a broker?
You can complain first to the broker, then to the broker’s internal dispute resolution team. If unresolved, lodge a complaint with AFCA (Australian Financial Complaints Authority) at afca.org.au. AFCA is free for consumers and can order remedies including compensation.
Related Guides
- How to Find a Good Mortgage Broker
- How Mortgage Brokers Work
- Online Mortgage Brokers Australia
- Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Broker
- Mortgage Brokers Hub
Peakifi may receive compensation if you access financial products through links on this site. This article provides factual information about major mortgage broker groups in Australia and is not a personal recommendation of any broker. Always verify credentials via ASIC Connect and seek at least two broker opinions before committing to a loan application. For advice tailored to your situation, speak with a licensed mortgage broker. Find one through MoneySmart.