The Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) has revealed the 10 successful applicants for its She Means Business pilot program, a new initiative backed by the federal government and developed in partnership with the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA).
With female participation in the broking sector still hovering below 27% – a figure that has seen little change in the past decade – the program aims to drive gender diversity in small businesses, particularly among leadership roles.
The She Means Business program aims to help shift those dynamics by creating direct pathways to development and visibility.
The pilot program was open to MFAA member mortgage and finance broking businesses in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland with fewer than 20 employees and a commitment to improving gender diversity.
Following strong interest and a high number of applications, 10 businesses were chosen to participate. These brokers will receive government funding and customised training to help grow their businesses, develop leadership skills, and support innovation and diversity within the industry.
Between now and March 2026, participants will take part in a range of activities including one-on-one mentoring, interviews, in-person training, and feedback sessions.
Pannek congratulated the selected businesses and highlighted the industry-wide impact the program could have.
“I’m delighted with the strong interest members have shown in this wonderful initiative,” Pannek said. “I’m sure the participants who have been selected will gain a lot from this experience, including crucial insights and skills that they can implement in their businesses.
“The MFAA has a firm commitment to promoting inclusivity – it drives innovation and enhances organisational performance.”
She added that supporting future women leaders is key to strengthening the broking profession.
“It’s also important to inspire the next generation of women broker business leaders and promote broking as a rewarding career option,” Pannek said.
Nicole Walsh, head of programs at COSBOA, said the She Means Business initiative is designed to create opportunities for women in sectors where they remain underrepresented.
“COSBOA is proud to partner with the MFAA for this exciting initiative and we’ve been blown away by the response,” Walsh said.
“She Means Business will provide us with the insights we need to ensure women can enjoy rewarding and sustainable careers in all sectors, including mortgage broking.”
Tripti Goyal, associate director of Trusted Financial Choice in Melbourne, said she was "speechless" when she learned her business had been selected.
“Thank you, the MFAA and COSBOA, for this incredible opportunity,” Goyal said. “I feel very honoured to be part of the program – to learn, upskill and find ways to give back through this experience.”
Another successful applicant, MoneyQuest Penrith & Blue Mountains, also expressed excitement about being selected.
“I am so thrilled about this opportunity, having worked in the industry for many years I see this as a way to give back,” said managing director Peita Davies.
Insights gained from the pilot will help shape national recommendations for supporting gender diversity in businesses across a range of industries.
Queensland:
New South Wales:
Victoria:
