Mortgage broker requirements

Understanding the necessary qualifications and legal steps is crucial if you want to use or become a mortgage broker in Australia. Learn the key mortgage broker requirements to ensure clarity and confidence.

Mortgage broker requirements

Understanding the necessary qualifications and legal steps is crucial if you want to use or become a mortgage broker in Australia. Learn the key mortgage broker requirements to ensure clarity and confidence.

MORTGAGE BROKER

11/5/20254 min read

What qualifications do Australian mortgage brokers need?

To give credit advice in Australia, mortgage brokers must meet education standards set by regulators and industry bodies. This ensures they act in your best interest and understand complex lending rules.

  • Minimum qualification: The entry-level requirement is the Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking (FNS40821), covering compliance, the NCCP Act, and loan processes.

  • Industry standard: Many brokers also complete the Diploma of Finance and Mortgage Broking Management, often required for MFAA membership and brokerage ownership.

  • Continuous professional development (CPD): Accredited brokers complete around 30 CPD hours annually to stay current with legislation, lender updates, and best practices.

With HeyNest, you’re matched only with qualified, compliant and independent brokers.

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Licensing and legal requirements

Beyond education, brokers must meet strict licensing and compliance standards set by ASIC.

  • Australian Credit Licence (ACL) or Representative: Brokers either hold an ACL or act as an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR) under an aggregator’s licence, as required by the NCCP Act.

  • External Dispute Resolution (EDR): Membership with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) ensures clients can access free, independent dispute resolution.

  • Best Interests Duty (BID): Since 2021, brokers are legally bound to prioritise clients’ needs over commissions or lender preferences.

All HeyNest brokers meet these legal and ethical standards, giving you confidence from first click to settlement.

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Non-educational professional requirements

Great brokers pair qualifications with strong ethical and professional safeguards.

  • Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance: Mandatory coverage protects both broker and client against losses from professional errors.

  • Character and probity checks: Police and credit checks ensure brokers are “fit and proper” to manage financial transactions.

  • Mentorship and experience: New brokers typically complete two years of supervised mentorship before operating independently.

HeyNest connects you only with vetted, local brokers who meet every professional benchmark across Australia.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a diploma to use a mortgage broker?

No, the qualification requirements are for the broker. As a client, you only need to ensure your chosen broker is licensed and accredited.

Are all mortgage brokers legally required to act in my best interest?

Yes, all licensed Australian mortgage brokers are legally bound by the Best Interests Duty (BID) to act in your best financial interest.

How can I check a mortgage broker's qualifications and licence?

You can search ASIC's Professional Registers using their name or company details to verify their Australian Credit Licence (ACL) or credit representative status.