Report Explores Global Mortgage Industry Trends
The Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia compares national mortgage practices with five international markets.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Residential
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The Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia has published its Global Insights Report 2026. This study assesses the Australian mortgage sector alongside models used in the US, Canada, the UK, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Why it matters
The report aims to identify international practices that could benefit the Australian mortgage industry. It specifically explores how different compensation models, such as Australia's trail commissions versus the Netherlands' client-paid advice, influence long-term client relationships.
Australia currently hosts more than 24,000 mortgage brokers who facilitate significant home loan volume. In 2025 alone, these professionals settled 838,815 residential loans with a total value of $496 billion.
The players
Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia
This is the primary industry body representing mortgage and finance brokers across the country.
The details
The report draws on data and interviews with over 30 stakeholders from 15 different organisations. It highlights that while the Netherlands banned mortgage commissions in 2013 and utilizes the Hypotheken Data Network for digital services, Australia continues to operate under the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009.
Timeline
2013: The Netherlands officially banned mortgage commissions.
2025: Mortgage brokers settled a total of 838,815 residential loans.
June 2026 quarter: Brokers facilitated 81.6% of new residential home loans.
21 October 2026: The Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia began a three-part video series.
Culture Shift
The report reflects a broader global movement toward transparency in financial advisory services. It positions the Australian trail commission model against the shift toward client-paid advice seen in markets like the Netherlands.
The reliance on broker services remains high, with 81.6% of new home loans facilitated by brokers in the June 2026 quarter. Homeowners can expect these findings to influence future discussions regarding mortgage advice models and fee structures.
The takeaway
Understanding international comparisons helps Australian borrowers recognise the global context of their local mortgage services. Staying informed about these industry shifts can assist homeowners in evaluating the value of the advice and services provided by their brokers.
What happens next
The Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia will release the remaining two instalments of its three-part video series on a fortnightly schedule following the initial launch on 21 October 2026.
Further reading
For more information on housing market trends, visit the Australia Residential section.
Live Poll
Do you believe ongoing trail commissions for mortgage brokers provide better service for your home loan?
