The power list

This edition of The Adviser is dedicated to the cream of the crop of the broking industry – celebrating the brokers who are at the top of their game.

Our cover story, which reveals the Elite Broker Ranking – Residential (page 18), shines a spotlight on Australia’s most prolific mortgage brokers. From record settlement volumes and eye-watering numbers of loans being written, these top performers are setting the benchmark for excellence in broking.

But, of course, being an excellent broker isn’t just about the volume of business you settle – it’s also about the service and care you give to borrowers. Earlier this year, we championed brokers delighting Australian borrowers in our 15th annual Australian Broking Awards 2025. Alongside the principal partner of the awards, NAB, we’re showcasing the individuals and businesses whose hard work, innovation, and dedication are shaping the future of the industry (page 38).

Do make sure to check out some top tips and insights from leading brokers, including the Elite Broker profile (page 12) with Darren Little from the Major Independent Brokerage of the Year, Smartmove, who reveals how he leads a 100-strong broking team, while continuing to drive growth and client outcomes.

Words of advice for new brokers looking to succeed can also be found in the New Broker profile with the recently crowned New Broker of the Year 2025, Mortgage Choice broker Richard Brown (page 16), and more tips for new brokers can also be found in The Word (page 4). Elsewhere in this edition, Ben Squires explores the new and emerging trends in mortgage broking. In Turning the key (page 26), sponsored by Household Capital, we look at the rising demand for reverse mortgages and how brokers can unlock this growing segment. Meanwhile, in Clearing the deposit hurdle (page 32), run in partnership with Deposit Power, he unpacks the innovative solutions helping clients achieve home ownership faster – and what brokers need to know to guide them effectively.

In addition, this issue features a special reflection from Pepper Money CEO Mario Rehayem (page 36) as he shares his perspective on 25 years of non-bank lending – and what’s next for the sector.

I hope you enjoy this edition of The Adviser, and as always, I’d love to hear your thoughts on what you’d like to see in future issues: [email protected].