Magnetic forces

If there’s one clear force shaping the mortgage landscape right now, it’s an undeniable magnetic pull. Lenders are competing harder than ever to attract broker flow, borrowers are drawn toward flexibility and speed, and brokers are seeking out partners that genuinely hold their business together rather than repelling it with operational friction.

In our cover story this month page 20, we examine what is attracting – and repelling – brokers to and from the mutual banks. Continuing our analysis of the findings of the Third-Party Lending Report, we’re focusing on what the broker experience is like at the customer-owned lenders, and where operational sticking points are threatening to push business away.

Meanwhile, over on page 26, we look at how eco-conscious solutions are acting as a powerful drawcard for modern borrowers. As efficiency and long-term savings take centre stage, green finance is giving brokers a fresh avenue to add value and build lasting client attraction beyond standard mortgage products.

Similarly, on page 32, we explore how bridging finance has transitioned from a niche backup plan into a main-stage strategic tool. In partnership with Bridgit, we break down the key use cases showing how bridging solutions are helping buyers secure their next property without getting stuck in market limbo.

We also tackle one of the most polarising issues in the third-party channel today: clawbacks (page 36). As the industry renews its push for reform and select lenders begin re-evaluating their policies, we investigate the forces driving this current flashpoint and ask whether momentum is finally pulling the sector toward meaningful change.

Don’t forget to check out the most recent broker profiles from our podcast guests too! On page 14, you can read the Elite Broker profile, which shines a spotlight on Bendigo-based broker Nathan Newlan, the recent winner of the Vic/Tas Better Business Award 2026, while our new broker profile page 11 is on Jay Nash from Empire Finance Mortgage Brokers.

I hope you enjoy this edition of The Adviser. As always, do reach out if there’s anything you’d like to see covered in future issues: [email protected].