Non-bank lender enters strategic partnerships with AFG, Mortgage Choice
Pepper Money is strengthening its white-label partnerships with two of Australia's largest aggregator groups, adding commercial and eligible self-managed super fund (SMSF) lending to the AFG Options and Mortgage Choice Ignite platforms from 9 July 2026.
The non-bank lender said the move gives brokers at AFG and Mortgage Choice access to specialist lending through white-label brands they already use, as the SMSF lending market undergoes its biggest shift in almost two decades.
Move lands as SMSF borrowing rules tighten
The expansion follows the federal government's move to ban SMSFs from entering new limited recourse borrowing arrangements (LRBAs) for residential property. The relevant bill received Royal Assent on 26 June, with the ban expected to commence around 10 August. However, existing LRBAs and commercial SMSF lending are unaffected.
Pepper Money head of white label and strategic partnerships, Mathew Rehayem (pictured, right), said the timing reflects where broker opportunities now sit. "While the proposed changes are reshaping residential SMSF lending, brokers will continue to support customers with existing residential SMSF lending and commercial SMSF opportunities. Our role is to provide our aggregator partners and their brokers with the practical lending solutions and confidence they need as the market evolves.”
What's changing for AFG and Mortgage Choice brokers
The offering is live now through AFG Options and Mortgage Choice Ignite, alongside each aggregator's existing residential white-label products.
AFG general manager of white label Hayden Cush (pictured, centre) said the expanded offering reflects the changing needs of brokers and their clients. “SMSF and commercial lending are becoming a much bigger part of broker conversations. Expanding AFG Options in partnership with Pepper Money gives brokers more ways to support clients as those opportunities continue to grow.”
Mortgage Choice general manager distribution, Aaron Slater (pictured, left), said diversification had become essential for brokers. "Consumers aren't just expecting brokers to support their residential lending needs. The expanded Mortgage Choice Ignite offering ensures that our brokers have even more lender and product options to meet market demand.”
Pepper Money noted that white-label loans already account for more than half of its mortgage distribution, with close to 60% year-on-year growth across commercial and SMSF lending combined.
