The Finance Brokers Association of Australia (FBAA) has unveiled REAL BROKER 27, a bold industry initiative designed to help brokers harness AI and technology, deepen client relationships, and build stronger, more sustainable businesses.
Launched at the FBAA National Industry Conference in Sydney, REAL BROKER 27 transforms the association’s STILL HUMAN philosophy into a practical action plan for 2027, ensuring brokers remain indispensable as technology rapidly reshapes financial services.
FBAA CEO Leo Gagic said the initiative recognises the reality facing today’s brokers: increasing compliance demands, evolving client expectations, and the rapid emergence of AI-driven tools.
“Technology will change the way finance is delivered, but it won’t replace the value of a great broker.
“REAL BROKER 27 is about helping brokers use technology to their advantage while strengthening the skills that matter most: trust, judgement, relationships, and the ability to solve complex problem – ‘The Human element’,” said Mr Gagic.
“We’re moving beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re a new entrant, growing your business, scaling a team or planning your legacy, REAL BROKER 27 will provide practical support tailored to where you are in your journey.”
REAL BROKER 27 will provide support across four distinct stages of a broker’s career:
- New Broker: Building strong foundations.
- Grow Broker: Developing capability, a client base and momentum.
- Scale Broker: Strengthening systems, teams, and leadership.
- Legacy Broker: Building long-term value, planning succession, and sharing knowledge.
FBAA members will have access to shorter learning opportunities built around real business challenges, targeted events, weekly webinars, guidance on responsible AI use and tools to strengthen communication and client relationships.
Mr Gagic said the initiative would help brokers respond to changing client expectations.
“Clients will increasingly arrive having already researched rates, compared products and used technology to explore their options,” he said.
“A REAL BROKER goes beyond providing information or processing a transaction. They understand complexity, explore different scenarios, structure finance around the client’s wider circumstances and bring clarity when the answer is not obvious.”
Brokers across the profession will be invited to make and share their own REAL BROKER 27 commitment.
“FBAA will help you make the most of technology, build on what makes you stand out, and prepare your business for what’s ahead,” Mr Gagic said.
