Newcastle Mortgage Brokerage Focus Finance Earns National Recognition as Small Business Award Finalist
Focus Finance Newcastle Pty Ltd, a mortgage brokerage firm headquartered at 1/161 King Street in Newcastle, has achieved significant national acclaim by being named a finalist in the prestigious 2026 Australian Small Business Champion Awards. This recognition comes just three years after the company was established in March 2023, with a mission to humanise the mortgage industry and provide exceptional service to clients across home loans, investment lending, refinancing, and long-term property portfolio strategies.
A Testament to People-First Philosophy and Operational Excellence
Managing director Katie Thomas, who brings 13 years of experience from Westpac to her role, attributes the firm's rapid success to a core philosophy of "people, then process." She emphasises that the award nomination shines a spotlight on the dedicated team of 31 staff members who consistently deliver exceptional work. "This recognition reinforces that you don't have to cut corners or compromise values to succeed in this industry," Ms Thomas stated. "We are so proud to represent Newcastle and the Hunter on a national stage."
The brokerage has prioritised strong systems and operational discipline over quick wins, fostering a culture described as "low ego, high standards, big heart." Ms Thomas noted that this combination is rare and more valuable than formal qualifications, with a hiring approach focused on bravery rather than perfection. This ethos has driven impressive milestones, including Ms Thomas being named the top broker in Australia in 2025, two brokers ranking in the national top 10 for female brokers, and a staff member winning a "Young Gun of the Year" title.
Significant Achievements and Community Impact
Beyond individual accolades, Focus Finance takes pride in its substantial community impact. In 2025 alone, the firm assisted nearly 1500 people in finding homes, demonstrating its commitment to serving both first home buyers and seasoned investors with equal care. "We have a saying at Focus: we don't hire perfect, we hire brave," Ms Thomas explained, highlighting how this approach has cultivated a high-performance team that achieves remarkable results.
Looking ahead, the brokerage plans to expand its team and deepen its roots in the Hunter Valley region. Ms Thomas envisions building a lasting legacy that outlasts any single individual, creating a business where ambitious brokers can reach their full potential. "I'm building toward the day one of my own brokers takes the top ranking off me," she said. "A business that creates people who are better than the person who built it is a business worth building."
This national award recognition not only celebrates Focus Finance's achievements but also underscores the importance of ethical practices and people-centric values in the competitive finance sector. As a finalist in the finance category, the firm stands as a beacon of excellence for small businesses across Australia, proving that integrity and dedication can lead to outstanding success.
