Chartered accountant and tax adviser finds mortgage broking a natural extension of his practice
Broker in Focus is a dedicated series that highlights the unique journeys of mortgage brokers, providing them with a platform to share their experiences, insights, and expertise. Through compelling personal stories and professional reflections, each featured broker recounts the key moments that have shaped their careers, delves into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today, and shares the valuable wisdom they have gained along the way.
This week’s featured broker is Sam Naragala (pictured top) of Mortgage Choice in Hobart, who brought a distinctly analytical edge to mortgage broking after a career in accounting and taxation. A chartered accountant and chartered tax adviser, Naragala founded his own accounting practice before entering the broking industry in 2022 — a move he describes as a natural extension of his professional services.
In four years, he has built a reputation for navigating complex lending scenarios, including arranging finance for a conservation land purchase that fell well outside standard residential lending policies. Named Young Chartered Accountant of the Year for Tasmania in 2025, Naragala brings the same rigour he applied in accounting to every client outcome.
- Full name: Givantha Sam Naragala
- Job title: Mortgage broker
- Company:Mortgage Choice in Hobart
- Number of years in the industry: 4
- Location: Hobart
How and when did you become a mortgage broker?
I became a mortgage broker in 2022 after building an established career in accounting and taxation and founding my own accounting practice. As a chartered accountant and chartered tax adviser, I regularly worked with clients who also required support with property finance, so mortgage broking was a natural extension of my professional services. My personal experience as a property investor also encouraged me to enter the industry.
In your opinion, what has been the most positive development in broking?
The most positive development has been the growing recognition of brokers as trusted advisers rather than simply loan intermediaries. Clients increasingly value having someone who can explain complex lending policies, compare options and guide them throughout the process. Technology has also improved efficiency, allowing brokers to spend more time supporting their clients.
What challenges do you see currently facing the industry?
Increasingly complex lender policies, compliance requirements and serviceability assessments are among the industry’s greatest challenges. Housing affordability and cost-of-living pressures are also making it more difficult for many borrowers. Better communication from lenders, more consistent assessment processes and continued investment in broker education and technology would help address these issues.
Can you share a memorable or challenging experience from your career as a broker and the lessons you gained from it?
One memorable case involved arranging finance for clients purchasing approximately 50 hectares of vacant land on Bruny Island for conservation purposes. As the property did not fit standard residential lending policies, many lenders were unwilling to consider it. Through detailed research and persistence, we identified a suitable solution. It reinforced the importance of understanding lender policies, thinking creatively and not giving up on a complex scenario.
Could you share any valuable advice for individuals aspiring to become brokers or those new to broking?
Develop strong technical knowledge, find an experienced mentor and always place the client’s interests first. I was honoured to be named Young Chartered Accountant of the Year for Tasmania in 2025 and Mentor of the Year at the Australian Accounting Awards. These recognitions reinforced my belief that professional success comes from continuous learning, strong relationships and helping others develop. New brokers should communicate clearly, act with integrity and focus on long-term client outcomes rather than individual transactions.
Broker in Focus is a weekly MPA feature spotlighting mortgage brokers from diverse firms and locations across Australia. Among those recently featured are Martin Robinson of The Mortgage People, Rachelle Kroon of Sphere Home Loans, Lawry Miller of Teachers and Nurses Mortgage & Finance, Stacey Straatsma of Mortgage Choice Nowra, Jerry O’Brien of Mortgage Station, Ashley Hooker of Mortgage Choice Woronora Heights, Ben Harris of In Financial Services, Bree Rollo of Tend Home Loans, Charlotte Rubbo of In Mortgage & Finance Services, Karen Le Comte of Mortgage Choice Cleveland, and Ditte Moller of Viking Mortgages.
Are you a mortgage broker interested in being featured? Email the author with your details.
