The Shift in Trust: Australians Are Choosing Brokers in Record Numbers
The Australian lending landscape has changed — dramatically.
Once dominated by the big banks, the mortgage market is now led by independent brokers who are writing the vast majority of new home loans.
According to the Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA), brokers settled a record 77.6 % of all new residential home loans in the June 2025 quarter, the highest share ever recorded.
In total, brokers arranged more than $121 billion in new home loans that quarter alone — a record result that highlights how Australians are voting with their feet.
This surge reflects a simple truth: Australians trust mortgage brokers more than ever before — and that trust is reshaping how home finance works nationwide.
The Numbers Behind the Shift
77.6 % of all new home loans written by brokers in June 2025.
$203.8 billion in settlements in the six months to September 2024 — up significantly year-on-year.
Broker market share has risen 18 percentage points since 2017, with the MFAA’s 2025 report showing brokers now responsible for over three-quarters of all new residential loans.
This isn’t a temporary spike — it’s a long-term trend. More borrowers are moving away from single-bank relationships and toward brokers who provide choice, clarity and confidence.
Why Australians Are Turning Away from Banks
1. Brokers Offer True Choice
Banks can only recommend their own products — brokers can compare dozens.
This gives borrowers the power to find a loan that fits their goals, not just what one lender is willing to offer.
2. The Lending Process Is More Complex
Since tighter regulations were introduced, assessing income, expenses and loan structures has become more technical.
Brokers simplify it — guiding you through, managing paperwork and explaining lender jargon.
3. The Best Interests Duty Builds Confidence
The Best Interests Duty (BID) — introduced in 2021 — legally requires brokers to act in the client’s best interest.
That law alone has shifted perception: borrowers know their broker must recommend what benefits them, not the lender.
4. Brokers Provide Ongoing Guidance
While most banks focus on loan settlement, brokers continue to support clients long-term — reviewing rates, checking equity and advising when refinancing makes sense.
5. Regional Knowledge Matters
In areas like the Central Coast, where postcodes, property types and lender appetite vary, a broker with local expertise can save borrowers time, money and stress.
What This Means for Central Coast Homeowners
For homeowners and buyers across Bateau Bay, Tumbi Umbi, Noraville and Toukley, this shift toward brokers is a win.
It means:
More competition and sharper rates
Personalised service from someone who understands both your goals and your market
Whether you’re upgrading, renovating or investing, a broker ensures you see the full range of options — not just one bank’s offer.
How to Find the Right Mortgage Broker in 2025
Not all brokers are created equal. The right broker should feel like a partner in your financial journey, not just a salesperson.
Look for:
Proven experience across first-home, investor and refinance clients.
Transparency about lender panels, commission and recommendations.
Local insight into Central Coast property trends and lender appetite.
Strategic mindset — someone who thinks beyond today’s rate.
Ongoing support — annual reviews and check-ins, not one-off contact.
At Shoreline Lending, we combine these qualities with over 10 years of banking experience and a relaxed, client-focused approach that simplifies the process while delivering expert strategy.
Quick Borrower Checklist for Central Coast Homeowners
| Step | What to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gather income, asset and credit documents | Clean files speed approvals. |
| 2 | Define your property purpose | Lender policy differs for home, investment or refinance. |
| 3 | Decide on structure (fixed, variable, split, offset) | Impacts flexibility and savings. |
| 4 | Understand borrowing limits | Serviceability buffers remain tight in 2025. |
| 5 | Schedule annual loan reviews | Regular reviews help reduce rates or unlock equity. |
We Can Help You Make the Right Move
If you’re considering whether to renovate or relocate, we’re here to help you navigate the financial side with confidence.
We can guide you through eligibility, renovation loans, property options, and help you decide what’s best for your family.
Book your free home loan strategy session — no pressure, just expert advice.
Not ready to book? Contact us and we’ll answer your questions and guide you through the decision-making process.