Pepper Money named Non-Bank of the Year 2026

Pepper Money has been named Non-Bank of the Year at the 2026 Australian Mortgage Awards, capping a record period of growth for the lender as it continues to expand the range of customers and scenarios it can support through the broker channel.

The prestigious award recognises excellence in business performance, service innovation, broker support, product development and community impact across Australia's non-bank lending sector. 

More than growth. A reflection of trust.

The recognition follows a standout year for Pepper Money, with the business achieving record total originations of $10.3 billion in 2025 and sustained that momentum into 2026 with 1H26 originations up 40% to $6.3 billion. Despite challenging market conditions, Pepper’s mortgage originations grew strongly, broker engagement reached new highs and the lender continued investing in the products, technology, and service enhancements designed to help brokers support more customers.

During the year, Pepper Money broadened its residential, commercial, and SMSF lending solutions, introduced market first digital enhancements including Alt Doc Xpress and App Tracker, and improved service performance to make it easier and faster for brokers to do business. This includes enhancements to its specialist lending solutions for self-employed borrowers, property investors, and SMSF customers, alongside the expansion of its white label partnerships and the introduction of new lending options to help brokers support a broader range of customer circumstances.

Chief Executive Officer Mario Rehayem said the award reflected Pepper Money's unwavering commitment to customers, brokers, and partners.

Being named Non-Bank of the Year is an incredible honour because it recognises far more than business performance. It recognises purpose. It recognises the trust brokers place in us every day and the passion our people bring to our mission.

"For over 26 years, Pepper Money has been focused on helping more Australians succeed. Whether that's helping a family buy a home, supporting someone rebuilding financially, or giving a self-employed customer access to a solution that works for them, our purpose has always been to create opportunities.

"This award belongs to our people, our broker partners and our customers. Together, we've built a business that challenges convention, embraces innovation and delivers real outcomes for Australians every day.

"It's important to take a moment to celebrate achievements like this, but they also inspire us to keep pushing forward and finding new ways to help brokers and their customers succeed."

Turning broker insight into broker opportunity

Brokers remain at the centre of Pepper Money's success, with the business continuing to invest heavily in tools, technology and lending solutions informed by broker feedback and customer needs.

Chief Executive, Mortgages and Commercial Lending, Barry Saoud said the award reflected the strength of Pepper Money's broker relationships and its commitment to continually evolving.

"Everything we do starts with listening.

"Our brokers tell us where customers are facing challenges, where lending gaps exist and where processes can be improved. Those insights drive our innovation and help shape the products, policies and technology we bring to market.

"Whether it's simplifying documentation for self-employed customers, improving visibility through the application process, or expanding the scenarios we can support, our focus is always on helping brokers deliver better outcomes for their customers.

This recognition is particularly meaningful because it reflects the trust brokers place in Pepper Money every day. We're incredibly grateful for that trust and committed to continuing to earn it.

Adding to the night's success, Pepper Money's Susan George was also named Best Non-Bank Business Development Manager (BDM), recognising her outstanding contribution to broker relationships and service.

Looking ahead

While the award celebrates a significant achievement, Pepper Money remains firmly focused on the future.

As customer needs continue to evolve, the business will continue investing in technology, service, broker support and lending innovation to create more opportunities for Australians and deliver on its mission of helping more people succeed.

"This recognition is a milestone, not a destination," said Rehayem.

"Our ambition remains the same as it was 26 years ago: to help more Australians succeed and to be the lender brokers turn to when their customers need really helpful options.

As we look ahead, we'll continue challenging ourselves to innovate, improve and create even more opportunities for the people and communities we serve.