For Walton, it's not just about winning – it's about building relationships, meeting other brokers, and sharing experiences in a fast-paced industry
When Maddie Walton (pictured, accepting award from Bankwest's Ian Rakhit) and her team at Money Lounge walked away with the Bankwest New Brokerage of the Year award at the 2025 Australian Mortgage Awards, it represented a validation of the hard work they have put into the Gold Coast brokerage.
As nominations for the 2026 Australian Mortgage Awards officially come online, MPA caught up with Walton to reflect on Money Lounge’s win.
"Winning the Bankwest New Brokerage of the Year award was such a special moment for our whole team at Money Lounge," Walton said. "We've poured so much energy, passion, and hard work into building the business, so to be recognised on a national level was incredibly rewarding."
Money Lounge operates across the full residential spectrum – first-home buyers, next home buyers, investors, refinances, and SMSF and trust lending – from its base on the Gold Coast in Queensland.
As a newer entrant to the market, the brokerage has moved quickly to establish itself, and Walton says industry awards have played a meaningful role in that process.
"Being recognised as a finalist or winner also creates credibility and trust with our current and prospective clients," she said. "It's not just about winning awards – it's about building relationships, meeting other brokers, and sharing ideas and experiences."
That credibility has translated into tangible business growth. The majority of Money Lounge's new business now arrives through client referrals – a metric Walton points to as among the most meaningful markers of progress.
A celebration of the broking community
Beyond individual recognition, Walton sees events like the AMAs as an important part of the broking community's culture.
"The AMAs are important because they bring the broking community together and shine a light on all the amazing work brokers do for their clients every day," she said. "It creates a really positive atmosphere and reminds everyone why they love being part of the industry in the first place."
For Walton, the atmosphere of the night itself is as important as the award. "There's a lot of excitement in the room, and it's great catching up with people across the industry and celebrating everyone's achievements together," she said. "It's also a fun excuse for everyone to switch off for a night and enjoy themselves after a busy year."
Telling a story
With a winning submission behind her, Walton is well placed to offer guidance to brokerages considering entering for the first time.
"One of the biggest tips is to be genuine and tell your story," she said. "Of course numbers matter, but people also want to understand who you are, what your business stands for, and the impact you're having on clients."
She also flagged the practical reality of the process. "Don't leave it until the last minute – it's a big process. Give yourself enough time so the submission really reflects your business and everything you've achieved over the year."
A year of growth behind the scenes
The award was the headline moment, but Walton stressed that 2025 involved substantial development well beyond the AMAs. Money Lounge expanded its client base, rebuilt backend processes using automation and artificial intelligence, and continued to develop the skills of its team.
"Seeing more people connect with the brand and trust us with such important financial decisions has honestly been the most rewarding part," Walton said.
With referrals now driving a significant share of new business and a growing team behind her, Walton's outlook for the year ahead is confident. "We have lots in store for the next 12 months," she teased.
