THE GIG ECONOMY IS CALLING

Your 2025 Infographic Guide to Mastering Self-Employed Mortgages

A Vast, Underserved Market

The self-employed sector isn't a niche; it's a foundational pillar of the Australian economy. The data reveals a massive opportunity for brokers who specialize in this space.

2.6M
Small Businesses

Comprising 97% of all businesses in Australia.

$590B
Economic Contribution

Representing nearly a third of the nation's GDP.

1.1M
Indep. Contractors

The "gig economy" makes up 7.5% of all employed individuals.

42%
Private Workforce

Employed by the small business sector.

The Core of Your Opportunity

Non-employing businesses, primarily sole traders, form the largest single group within this landscape. These are the clients most likely to be misunderstood by traditional PAYG-focused lending systems, creating a service gap you can fill.

Navigating the Lender Policy Maze

Major banks are adapting, but their policies are a complex matrix. Your value lies in knowing the nuances to find the best outcome for your client.

Westpac

1-Year Game-Changer

Allows assessment on the most recent single financial year. A powerful tool for new or rapidly growing businesses.

CBA

Simple Income Stream

Ideal for established company directors paying themselves a consistent salary for at least 6 months.

ANZ

The Shading Nuance

Accepts 1 year of financials, but applies a 20% shading on NPBT for LMI deals, impacting borrowing power.

NAB

Holistic Assessment

Uses latest year's income, but may average or cap it if growth is exceptionally high (>20%).

Your Specialist Toolkit

When standard financials aren't available, non-bank lenders provide crucial flexibility through alternative documentation. Mastering these pathways is key.

📄

Business Activity Statements (BAS)

Use 6-12 months of lodged BAS to prove consistent business turnover.

✍️

Accountant's Letter

A factual letter from a client's accountant verifying income from business records.

🏦

Business Bank Statements

3-6 months of statements showing real-time cash flow and deposit consistency.

The 3-Step Playbook for Approval

Success is about preparation and storytelling. Follow this simple process to build a bulletproof application.

1

Pre-Submission Deep Dive

Go beyond the form. Understand the client's business structure, seasonality, and the story behind their numbers. This context is crucial for your submission narrative.

2

Master Documentation

Provide clients with a comprehensive checklist upfront. Incomplete applications are the #1 cause of delays. Ensure you have everything needed for a "one-touch" submission.

3

Tell the Story & Justify Add-Backs

Write a compelling submission summary. Pre-empt assessor concerns and clearly explain income fluctuations. Meticulously verify every add-back (depreciation, one-off expenses, etc.) to maximize borrowing power.