Aussie brokers benefit from lasting partnerships

When Max Direen joined Aussie as a mobile broker back in early 2007, he was looking for fresh challenges. He had no way of knowing that he would still be with Aussie close to 14 years later. But as Max describes it, “It’s the best business decision I’ve ever made – Aussie’s been very good to me”.

As the franchisee of Aussie Mackay, Max is one of hundreds of Aussie brokers who have built a successful, long term business with the support of the Aussie brand.

Over half the leading brokerage’s 950-plus brokers have been with Aussie for more than five years. A remarkable one in four have been part of the Aussie family for over a decade.

Aussie has supported my journey

For Max Direen, the decision to join Aussie was based on considerable due diligence. And as a newcomer to the industry, he admits he faced an initial learning curve coupled with the demands of building his broking business from scratch. But Max always knew he was never alone.

“Aussie has supported my journey at every stage,” says Max. “From the outset, there was an atmosphere of family, and that has always flowed through to everything Aussie does.”

Starting as a mobile broker based in a home office, it wasn’t long before Max expanded to a retail store. Today, Aussie Mackay employs a total of six brokers and one admin/marketing staffer, with more brokers planned for the future. The entire team are Mackay locals, and it’s become quite a family affair, with Max’s daughter and wife also involved in the business.

Looking back, Max says, “I’ve grown with Aussie – and the iconic brand isn’t the only aspect that has helped me grow my business. The marketing support Aussie provides is second to none, and the company has invested in IT support, helping franchisees improve and take advantage of new technology.”

BID has always been part of Aussie’s DNA

As he prepares to celebrate 14 years with Aussie, Max is still brimming with confidence for the future. He says, “I’ve never been afraid of change – and Aussie has always been ahead of the game in keeping franchisees informed and helping us adapt.”

As the broking industry continues to evolve, Max feels completely prepared for the introduction of Best Interest Duty (BID)in January 2021.

“BID is not something that’s new to Aussie,” he notes. “Working in the customer’s best interests has always been part of Aussie’s DNA. In addition, franchisees have been kept up to date with regular information and advice over the past six months, and formal training is now underway.”

Today, Max is seeing the finishing touches made to his newly refurbished – and expanded, Aussie Mackay store. He has reinvested in the Aussie brand, having signed on for another five plus five years, and looks forward to seeing his daughter thrive in her new role as a broker as well as expanding his team.

Brand matters in uncertain times

Max’s story, and the experience of many other long term Aussie franchisees, highlights the opportunities that Aussie offers to build a rewarding, sustainable business – with diverse options from operating as a mobile broker to store broker, or investing in a retail store.

Brad Cramb, General Manager Sales and Distribution explains, “The Aussie point of difference has always been our broker partnership philosophy. Our training and development programs are developed for brokers by brokers, so they remain relevant to our brokers’ needs at all times.”

During uncertain times, Australians gravitate towards strong and reliable brands. And Aussie Brokers are reaping the rewards of this in today’s market.

“October 2020 was Aussie’s best October settlement and lodgment month on record” explains Brad. “This is testimony to the trust that consumers place in the Aussie brand, and proof of our continued success in a year that has seen other businesses experience significant disruption.”

Start-up incentives offer a head start

Aussie can help build your team with a Store Broker start-up incentive for the first six months* plus other valuable incentives including:

• $45,000 franchise fee reduced to $22,500*
• $30,000 fit out contribution*
• Your own exclusive franchise territory, and
• Funding options available to help you setup your new store

To find out more call Aussie on 1300 361 397 or visit aussie.com.au/business-opportunities.

*Offers available until 31^st December. Terms and conditions apply.
Aussie is a trade mark of AHL Investments Pty Ltd. Aussie is a subsidiary of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124. © 2020 AHL Investments Pty Ltd ABN 27 105 265 861 Australian Credit Licence 246786.

Written by Aussie

Last Updated: 14 March 2022

Published: 10 November 2020