In Australia, a range of professionals can legally earn referral fees from mortgage brokers when they introduce clients with lending needs, provided the arrangement is disclosed and structured correctly. The key requirement is that the professional is making an introduction — not providing credit advice or acting as a credit representative.

Accountants and tax agents. Accountants are frequent mortgage referral sources. They see client financials and are often the first to identify an investment opportunity or refinancing need. No ASIC credit licence is required to make a referral.

Real estate agents. Agents interact with buyers and landlords at the point of transaction and frequently encounter clients who need finance.

Financial planners. Planners who incorporate property and lending into client wealth strategies can receive referral fees, subject to AFSL licensee approval and disclosure obligations.

Lawyers and conveyancers. Property lawyers manage transactions and frequently work with clients who need investment or purchase finance.

Insurance brokers. Commercial and personal lines insurance brokers work with property-owning clients who may need lending for acquisitions or portfolio management.

Employers and HR advisers. Employee benefit programs sometimes include mortgage broker referrals.

In all cases, the professional must: disclose the referral arrangement to the client, ensure a written agreement is in place with the broker, and confirm the referral does not compromise their primary professional obligations.