The Finance Brokers Association of Australia (FBAA) has officially launched its new certified finance broker (CFB) designation for commercial and asset finance brokers, following its announcement at last year’s national conference.
The initiative, which follows FBAA research showing that cutting the serviceability buffer to 2.5% could unlock $276 billion in national borrowing capacity, aims to support brokers looking to diversify into commercial and asset finance, offering structured training and a clear pathway to professional certification.
“This is the best opportunity any finance or mortgage broker will have to learn the technical skills behind success in this field, as becoming a CFB will be the industry standard,” said Steve Ragany (pictured left), FBAA’s national commercial and asset manager.
Ragany confirmed that the new qualification has been ratified by ACCC and is exclusively available through FBAA.
He emphasised the importance of understanding the distinct differences between commercial broking and asset finance.
“Being a CFB is now the gold standard in this area of broking and the program will include three prerequisites, with the first available at our upcoming 2025 Commercial and Asset Finance Masterclass National Tour,” Ragany said.
The national masterclass tour—beginning May 13—will visit Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, and Sydney, and is open to all brokers, not just those enrolled in the CFB program.
Attendees will gain insights into both commercial and asset finance, with sessions designed to help brokers expand their service offerings, discover new funding channels, and build stronger relationships with lenders.
The tour will also offer the first prerequisite course, titled “Mastering Cashflow,” delivered by Accendo—one of three education partners delivering the CFB program alongside CFMIA and AAMC.
Peter White (pictured right), managing director of FBAA, said the initiative reflects the association’s commitment to developing the commercial and asset finance sector.
“As the industry association that represents the largest number of commercial and asset brokers, I am proud to equip these brokers with the skills and knowledge to succeed,” White said.
As of March 2024, there were 22,031 mortgage and finance brokers operating across Australia, with 6,755 actively writing commercial loans and an increasing number also engaging in asset finance, MFAA reported.
Brokers can access details about the Commercial and Asset Finance Masterclass National Tour on the FBAA website.
Information on CFB prerequisites is also available online. Interested brokers are encouraged to contact the FBAA for guidance on enrolment and certification.
