Mortgage advisers are sending a clear message to their aggregators: the relationship needs to deliver more than access to lenders and competitive commission structures. As the industry looks ahead to 2026, brokers across Australia are speaking out about the kind of support that genuinely moves the needle for their businesses — and where many aggregators are falling short.

The conversation, highlighted by industry publication MPA Magazine, centres on a fundamental question facing every broker in the country: is your aggregator actually helping your business grow?

Beyond the Commission Split

For years, the aggregator value proposition was built largely around lender panel access and remuneration. But advisers say that model no longer reflects the realities of running a modern broking business. With regulatory demands intensifying, technology evolving rapidly, and competition for clients fiercer than ever, brokers want partners that invest in their long-term success.

Advisers point to business development support as one of the most valued — and often most lacking — services. Rather than generic training modules, brokers are seeking tailored coaching, lead generation assistance, and practical strategies to scale their operations. Many say aggregators that take a genuine interest in their growth trajectory stand out in an increasingly crowded market.

Technology and Compliance Take Centre Stage

Technology has become another decisive factor in how advisers evaluate their aggregator relationships. Brokers want streamlined CRM systems, efficient loan processing platforms, and tools that reduce administrative burden so they can spend more time with clients. Aggregators that fail to keep pace with digital innovation risk losing members to more forward-thinking competitors.

Compliance support is equally critical heading into 2026. With best interests duty obligations and ongoing regulatory scrutiny, advisers say they need proactive guidance rather than reactive box-ticking. The most valued aggregators are those that make compliance manageable, offering clear frameworks, responsive support teams, and practical resources that protect brokers without slowing them down.

What Advisers Want in 2026

Looking ahead, advisers identify several priorities they expect aggregators to address:

  • Meaningful business coaching and growth planning tailored to individual brokerages
  • Modern, integrated technology that simplifies workflows and client management
  • Responsive compliance guidance that keeps pace with regulatory change
  • Marketing and lead generation support to help brokers build their brands
  • A genuine partnership approach rather than a transactional relationship

The underlying theme is partnership. Advisers want aggregators that understand their goals, communicate openly, and provide resources that translate into measurable business outcomes.

A Defining Moment for Aggregators

As 2026 approaches, the pressure is on aggregators to prove their value. Brokers have more choice than ever, and loyalty can no longer be taken for granted. Those that invest in technology, compliance expertise, and authentic business development support are likely to attract and retain the industry's top performers.

For advisers weighing their options, the message from peers is simple: ask the hard questions about what your aggregator delivers beyond the basics. In a market where margins are tight and expectations are rising, the right partnership could be the difference between stagnation and sustainable growth.