As Melbourne surges into the final quarter of 2025, the city’s broker business landscape is undergoing a dynamic transformation. From strategic consolidations in the insurance sector to a resurgence in commercial property and a renewed appetite for business acquisitions, brokers are finding themselves at the heart of a high-stakes, high-opportunity environment.

1. Consolidation and Expansion: CBN’s Strategic Play

One of the most significant moves in the broker space this year is the integration of Coverforce Partners into the Community Broker Network (CBN). This merger, part of Steadfast Group’s broader restructuring, is set to enhance operational efficiency and expand CBN’s footprint across Australasia. With over 340 Authorised Representative (AR) businesses under its wing, CBN is doubling down on technology and support services to empower brokers in both Australia and New Zealand. [insuranceb…essmag.com]

This consolidation signals a broader trend: broker networks are scaling up, not just in size but in sophistication, to meet evolving client expectations and regulatory demands.

2. Leadership Shakeups and Industry Reflection

The recent stepping down of Steadfast CEO Robert Kelly amid a workplace complaint has sent ripples through the industry. While the investigation is ongoing, the development has prompted brokers to reflect on leadership standards and workplace culture. Despite the controversy, Steadfast reported a record 17% increase in net profit after tax, underscoring the group’s financial resilience. [insuranceb…essmag.com]

3. Commercial Property: From Slump to Surge

After years of pandemic-induced stagnation, Melbourne’s commercial property market is showing strong signs of recovery. NAB’s latest Commercial Property Index revealed a 21-point jump in office space demand in Q2 2025—the first major uptick since 2022. Retail and industrial sectors are also gaining traction, buoyed by population growth, improved business sentiment, and strategic infrastructure investments. [brokernews.com.au], [smartbusin…ans.com.au]

For brokers, this rebound presents a prime opportunity to diversify into commercial lending and property advisory, especially as small business owners look to transition from leasing to ownership.

4. Education and Professionalisation: A New Era for Brokers

In a landmark move, the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA) has launched the Mortgage Finance Professional Australia (MFPA) designation. The program, developed in partnership with RMIT Online, equips brokers with advanced skills in financial analysis, business management, and strategic planning. Melbourne-based broker Mark Guglielmino became the first to complete the financial analysis elective, calling it “an opportunity not to be missed”. [brokernews.com.au]

This initiative reflects a broader push to elevate the broker profession to the same level of recognition as accountants and lawyers.

5. Events Economy and Broker Momentum

Melbourne’s blockbuster events season—featuring the Melbourne Cup Carnival, Oasis, and Metallica—has injected over $110 million into the local economy. This surge in hospitality, retail, and accommodation spending is not only boosting business confidence but also driving demand for business loans and commercial finance, especially among SMEs looking to capitalise on the momentum. [brokernews.com.au]

6. The Road Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

Looking forward, brokers in Melbourne are well-positioned to thrive—if they can adapt. Key strategies for success in 2025 include:

  • Embracing digital tools for client engagement and loan processing.
  • Expanding into non-prime and commercial lending, as traditional banks tighten criteria.
  • Leveraging professional development to stand out in a competitive market.
  • Tapping into the commercial property rebound to offer holistic financial solutions.

As the city’s economic engine revs up, brokers are not just intermediaries—they’re becoming strategic advisors, educators, and growth enablers for Melbourne’s evolving business community.