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The Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA)’s National Forums – the National Aggregators Forum, National Compliance and Regulatory Forum, National Equipment and Commercial Finance Forum, and National Lenders Forum – bring together senior representatives from across the mortgage and finance broking industry to share knowledge, identify emerging issues, and contribute to the association’s policy and advocacy work.
MFAA CEO Anja Pannek said the forums play a critical role in ensuring the association remains closely connected to industry experience and emerging trends.
“The forums bring together senior leaders from across the industry to provide practical insights that directly inform our advocacy and member support,” Pannek said.
“The depth of expertise and commitment from forum members is instrumental in ensuring we continue to represent the interests of our members and the clients they serve.”
Recent work from the forums includes the National Compliance and Regulatory Forum contributing to member resources.
The National Equipment and Commercial Finance Forum has examined the rapid growth of private lending, producing guidance to help brokers understand both the opportunities and risks in the sector.
Meanwhile, collaboration between the National Lenders Forum and National Aggregators Forum was central to the development of the Aggregator Assurance Program, enabling lenders to undertake a single co-ordinated audit of aggregators.
National Aggregators Forum
Mortgage Choice CEO Anthony Waldron has been re-elected as president of the National Aggregators Forum, with Lendi Group chief distribution officer Brad Cramb newly elected as deputy president.
Waldron said the forum plays a vital role in ensuring the industry remains a competitive and trusted force for Australian consumers.
“I look forward to continuing our collaboration with the MFAA and fellow aggregators to advocate for our industry and the brokers who do such incredible work helping tens of thousands of borrowers each year,” Waldron said.
Cramb said it was a privilege to take on the deputy role.
“I look forward to working with the MFAA and fellow industry leaders to support brokers and ensure their voice continues to shape the future of our industry,” Cramb said.
Outgoing deputy president Gerald Foley, managing director of nMB, will continue as a member of the forum.
National Lenders Forum
Beyond Bank head of third party, Darren McLeod, has been re-elected as president of the National Lenders Forum, alongside Pepper Money CEO, mortgages and commercial lending, Barry Saoud, as deputy president.
McLeod said he was proud to be re-elected.
“It’s a great opportunity to continue working alongside passionate industry leaders to support brokers and drive positive outcomes across the lending sector,” McLeod said.
Saoud said he was grateful for the trust placed in him.
“After more than 20 years in lending, it’s a responsibility I take seriously. My focus is simple – back brokers, strengthen the industry and ensure Australians continue to have real choice when it comes to finance,” Saoud said.
National Equipment and Commercial Finance Forum
Judo Bank chief third-party officer George Obeid has been re-elected as president of the National Equipment and Commercial Finance Forum, with Astute Ability Finance Group principal Mhairi MacLeod re-elected as deputy president.
Obeid said he was honoured to continue in the role.
“Our focus remains on strengthening collaboration, sharing knowledge, and supporting members through the challenges and opportunities ahead,” Obeid said.
MacLeod thanked members for their support.
“I look forward to collaborating with colleagues, tackling shared challenges, and finding new opportunities to strengthen and grow Australia’s finance sector together,” MacLeod said.
National Compliance and Regulatory Forum
AFG head of compliance, Shirley Elliot, has been re-elected as president of the National Compliance and Regulatory Forum, with Finsure head of compliance and risk Samantha Wills re-elected as deputy president.
Elliot said she was looking ahead to upcoming regulatory developments.
“With ASIC’s observations of its review of best interests duty expected in 2026, being part of this forum and the MFAA’s broader advocacy work with regulators is critical,” Elliot said.
Wills said she was pleased to continue in the role.
“This next term is an opportunity to build on the progress already underway as the regulatory and lending landscape continues to evolve,” Wills said.
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