Yes. Real estate agents in Australia can receive referral fees for introducing clients to a licensed mortgage broker, provided the arrangement meets disclosure and compliance requirements.
Real estate agents interact with buyers at the point of purchase — the exact moment a lending need arises. This positioning makes agents a natural source of mortgage referrals. When a buyer is identified as needing finance, the agent can introduce them to a broker under a written referral arrangement.
Licence and disclosure. The referral fee must be disclosed to the client. Most state real estate legislation requires agents to disclose any third-party payments associated with a transaction. The arrangement should not compromise the agent’s obligation to their principal (the seller) in a sales context.
Real estate institute rules. Some state real estate institutes have specific guidance on referral fee arrangements. Agents should review their state’s requirements. In most jurisdictions, referral arrangements are permitted with appropriate disclosure.
No credit licence required. The agent is making an introduction only — not providing credit advice or comparing loan products. This means no Australian Credit Licence is needed.
For property managers and leasing agents, the same principles apply: clients who are landlords or prospective investors frequently need finance, and a referral arrangement with a broker provides a genuine service to the client while generating additional income for the agent.
