Deal brings insurer on board to help develop the next generation of women in broking
Mortgage Choice has named Allianz Australia as the exclusive partner of its Aspire program under a two-year agreement.
Aspire, a talent initiative focused on women within the Mortgage Choice broker network, was established in 2020 amid a decline in female participation across the broking industry. According to the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia (MFAA), women currently make up roughly 27% of all brokers — a figure that has held steady even as total broker numbers have reached a record high.
Mortgage Choice reports that women account for 33% of its own broker base, above the industry average, though the company has indicated it intends to continue improving that proportion.
"We believe the broking industry should reflect the diverse Australian communities we serve," said Sally Chadwick (pictured top), executive manager of corporate communications, events and franchise marketing at Mortgage Choice. "When borrowers can access advice from professionals who understand their lived experience, everyone benefits. It's no secret that gender imbalance remains one of the biggest opportunities facing the broking industry.
"While we are proud that Mortgage Choice exceeds the industry average with women representing 33% of our brokers, we know there is more to do. We firmly believe programs like Aspire that foster community and support and develop women in the industry are as important as ever.
"Allianz shares this vision, and we look forward to working with the team at Allianz to continue to provide a platform that genuinely supports and inspires the next generation of women in broking."
Allianz framed the partnership within a broader organisational focus on gender equity. The insurer is a founding member of the Champions of Change Coalition for the Insurance Industry and participates in the Insurance Council of Australia's DEI and Talent Working Group.
"We're strong advocates for gender equity and committed to supporting a culture of inclusion for all," said Christie Paton, head of partnerships at Allianz Australia. "We are thrilled to be partnering with Mortgage Choice on the Aspire program and look forward to working closely with the aggregator and their brokers on creating a more equitable and inclusive broking industry."
Aspire is delivered through national roadshows, state-based gatherings and virtual masterclasses covering topics including professional branding, leadership, and wellbeing. The first Aspire event under the new partnership will be a national roadshow later this month, taking place in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.
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