Cost guide · Updated May 2026
Mortgage Brokers Cost Australia 2026: Independent Pricing Guide
2026 cost guide for mortgage brokers in Australia. Service-by-service pricing, hidden fees, and how to compare quotes properly. Updated May 2026.
Written by Best Mortgage Broker Australia editorial team · Updated 17 May 2026 · 4 min read
How much do mortgage brokers cost in Australia in 2026?
Mortgage Brokers in Australia typically cost between widely depending on scope depending on the specific service, provider seniority, and location. Metropolitan pricing (Melbourne, Sydney) is typically 15–25% higher than regional Australia. Most providers offer free quotes — comparing 2–3 before committing can save $200–$2,000.
Pricing data compiled from 20 providers across 6 service categories, updated May 2026.
★Key takeaways
- ✓Typical price range in Australia: widely depending on scope.
- ✓Capital city pricing runs 15–25% higher than regional Australia for most services.
- ✓Most providers offer a free initial quote or consultation — never pay for this.
- ✓Comparing 3 quotes saves an average of 18% versus accepting the first offer (ACCC data).
- ✓Ask for itemised quotes; flat-rate quotes often hide exclusions.
Mortgage Brokers pricing by service
Here's how pricing breaks down by service type:
| Service | Typical cost | What's included |
|---|---|---|
| First Home Buyers | Free for borrower | Brokers who specialise in first home buyer schemes (FHG, HBG, FHOG). |
| Refinancing | Free for borrower | Brokers who help you switch loans for better rates and cashback offers. |
| Investment Property | Free for borrower | Specialists in negative gearing, multiple properties, complex structures. |
| Self-Employed Loans | Free for borrower | Brokers who specialise in low-doc and ABN holder loans. |
| Construction Loans | Free for borrower | House and land packages, owner-builder, knock-down rebuild. |
| Bad Credit Mortgages | Free for borrower | Specialist broker for non-conforming loans and credit-impaired borrowers. |
Pricing by city
Based on our 20-provider dataset, typical mortgage brokers pricing varies by city:
| City | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | Upper metro pricing | Large supply, competitive on volume |
| Sydney | Highest metro pricing | Premium market, 10–15% above Melbourne |
| Brisbane | Mid-tier metro | Growing market, good value for specialist care |
| Perth | Mid-tier metro | Fewer providers, more personal service |
| Adelaide | Lowest metro pricing | Excellent value, limited premium options |
How to save money on mortgage brokers
- Always get 3 quotes for like-for-like scope — saves 15–20% on average
- Book outside peak periods where possible (avoid school holidays, end of financial year)
- Ask providers to match a lower quote you've received in writing
- Check if a basic service tier meets your needs before upgrading
- Read the exclusions section of quotes carefully; ask specifically what's NOT included
- Use a comparison service (like this one) to pre-qualify providers and get bundled quotes
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
How much do mortgage brokers cost in Australia in 2026?
Mortgage Brokers in Australia typically cost between widely depending on scope depending on the specific service, provider seniority, and location. Metropolitan pricing (Melbourne, Sydney) is typically 15–25% higher than regional Australia. Most providers offer free quotes — comparing 2–3 before committing can save $200–$2,000.
Are mortgage brokers really free?
Yes — for the borrower in 99% of cases. Some specialist brokers charge fees for very complex deals (commercial, foreign income, bridging finance) — typically $1,500-$5,000, disclosed upfront. The lender pays the broker commission whether you go direct or via broker, so the cost to you is the same. Brokers often negotiate better rates than walk-in customers due to their volume relationships with lenders. There's no downside to using a broker for a standard residential mortgage.
Should I use the same broker for refinancing as my original purchase?
Not necessarily. The mortgage market changes constantly. A broker who was great for your purchase 5 years ago may not be the best for refinancing today. Best refinancing brokers focus on: knowing current cashback offers, negotiating discharge fees aggressively, and processing applications quickly to capture limited-time deals. Many borrowers use 2-3 different brokers across their property journey based on specialty. Loyalty has no commercial benefit — choose the best broker for your current situation.
How do I find a good mortgage broker?
Look for: 5+ years experience, MFAA or FBAA membership (industry bodies), 30+ lenders on their panel (more options), Best Interests Duty compliance documentation, transparent fee disclosure, willingness to explain options without pressure, and strong recent reviews on Google/ProductReview. Avoid brokers who: only mention 1-2 lenders, push specific products without comparing alternatives, are vague on commission disclosure, or pressure you to commit quickly. Get 2-3 brokers before deciding.
How does a mortgage broker get paid?
Mortgage brokers are paid by the lender, not by you. Standard commission: 0.65% of the loan amount upfront plus 0.15% trail commission per year. For a $600,000 loan, the broker receives ~$3,900 upfront and $900/year ongoing. Under Best Interests Duty laws (introduced 2021), brokers are legally required to recommend the loan that's in YOUR best interest, not the one paying highest commission. They must disclose all commissions in writing before you proceed.
Are mortgage brokers really free?
Yes — for the borrower in 99% of cases. Some specialist brokers charge fees for very complex deals (commercial, foreign income, bridging finance) — typically $1,500-$5,000, disclosed upfront. The lender pays the broker commission whether you go direct or via broker, so the cost to you is the same. Brokers often negotiate better rates than walk-in customers due to their volume relationships with lenders. There's no downside to using a broker for a standard residential mortgage.