The Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) is backing small businesses as the debate intensifies over proposed changes to capital gains tax (CGT) and trust taxation that would affect small business structures.
The industry body has endorsed the Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia's (COSBOA) Fair Go campaign, which is urging business owners to speak out on the proposed reforms to the 2026-27 federal budget. The MFAA has also lodged a submission with the Senate Economics Committee, which is reviewing the legislation.
Anja Pannek, chief executive officer of the MFAA, said brokers are small business owners who have spent years building their businesses and should have a voice in the policy debate.
She added to Australian Broker that: "The proposed changes are likely to further highlight the value of professional mortgage and finance brokers. As lending, investment, business finance and taxation considerations become more complex, Australian consumers and small business owners will increasingly seek trusted advisers who can help them understand their options and make informed decisions.
"While policy settings may influence borrower and investor behaviour, the need for trusted advice remains constant," Pannek continued. "Mortgage and finance brokers are uniquely positioned to guide clients through changing market conditions, helping them achieve their property, business and financial goals with confidence."
As a result, the MFAA, as a COSBOA member, has put together a series of online guidance materials and frequently asked questions to help members interpret the proposed changes and what they could mean in practice. The association is also urging brokers and their small business clients to share their stories, including any concerns about the potential impact of the reforms, by contacting their local member of Parliament and senators.
"Since the budget announcement, mortgage and finance brokers have seen a noticeable increase in enquiries from investor and small business clients seeking to better understand the proposed changes and what they may mean for borrowing, investment decisions, business planning and long term financial goals," Pannek explained. "The focus from brokers has largely been on gaining clarity so they can continue to provide clients with informed, timely and professional guidance. Clients are looking for trusted advice on how the changes could affect their individual circumstances, and brokers are playing an important role in helping them navigate what remains a developing policy discussion."
The COSBOA campaign comes as debate over the proposed tax changes intensifies. The MFAA said many brokers operate as small business owners and rely on discretionary trusts and business asset sales as part of their long-term financial and retirement planning, leaving them exposed to the potential impact of the reforms.
COSBOA Chief Executive Officer Skye Cappuccio pointed out that small businesses represent more than 97% of all Australian businesses, employing more than five million Australians, and contributing more than $500 billion to the economy each year.
"Small business owners need confidence and certainty to make decisions that support their businesses, employees and local communities,” she said. "Before any changes are implemented, it is important that policymakers hear directly from the people who could be affected."
