ANZ Woman of Distinction Melanie Smith does it her way

Aussie Windsor franchise owner Melanie Smith is still reeling from receiving one of the most prestigious trophies at the 2025 Australian Mortgage Awards, held at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney on Friday, 17 October.

As voted by her peers, Smith was crowned ANZ Woman of Distinction; no small feat when you’re up against some of the most impressive women leaders the industry has going for it.

“Honestly, I had to double check it was my name before I leapt up and raced down there,” said Smith. “I was so excited I hugged people along the way, and even Hughsie got one. Probably a bit over-the-top in hindsight, but in the moment, I was just buzzing.”

"Hughsie," of course, referring to MC extraordinaire Dave Hughes, who kept the 850-plus guests in high spirits for the entire evening.

State manager Jon Angelucci of award sponsor ANZ (left) with Smith (right)

Smith has well and truly pushed herself out of her comfort zone this year. She’s stepped up her social media game, taken part in TV and radio opportunities, and found new ways to stand out by doing things a little differently. 

“I’ve also looked for opportunities to improve our processes, to make things more consistent, more efficient, and ultimately more profitable.

“On top of that, I’ve really honed how we use AI so I can spend more time having real conversations with people, the part I love most, and I've looked for ways to keep the office fun and a genuinely nice place to work.”

Ticking all the boxes

There is plenty more in store for Aussie Windsor. Smith is looking to grow the team, although finding the right person is going to take time.

“It’s not just about skills, it’s about that ‘hell yeah’ attitude,” said Smith. “I’m also working on launching my podcast, which I’m really excited about.”

Smith is also planning to team up with more local agents to create cross-promotional content. “My following might be small, but it’s growing, and it’s all helping to build stronger local connections.”

Smith started out in broking 15 years ago as a mother of two seeking a career that gave her flexibility and purpose.

“Mortgage broking ticked both boxes. I joined Aussie for the strength of the brand but quickly built my own identity within it, focusing on being a trusted resource for families like mine.

“Over time, that approach really paid off. I grew from a one-woman show to a team of amazing brokers and support staff, many of them mums like me, who share the same values and drive.”

Two years ago, Smith took the leap and opened her first store, which in her words “has been a steep but incredibly rewarding learning curve”.

“Running a retail business is a whole new world, but it’s helped me develop more resilience and really find new ways to do more,” she added.

Tale of two Windsors

Smith’s local beat of Windsor has simultaneously provided the biggest challenges and greatest successes in her career.

“Launching in a brand-new territory, even with the Aussie name behind us, was no small feat,” she said. “You can’t just open the doors and expect people to walk in wanting to refinance their loans. You have to create the buzz, build trust, and make people want to be part of what you’re building.”

But when the hard graft, tears, long days and endless bouts of trial and error began to pay off, it made every late night and the leap of faith worth it.

The one constant has been doing it my way,” said Smith. “It hasn’t always been the easiest or the fastest route, but it’s been authentic, and that’s what’s built the kind of business, and team, I’m proud of.”

Supporting women in broking

Smith believes awards nights like the AMAs provide a great opportunity to support women brokers, as “recognition really matters”.

“Women make incredible brokers. We’re relationship-driven, we listen, we are great problem solvers, and we understand that people remember how you make them feel, not just what you do for them.”

However, the path into mortgage broking can be a daunting and intimidating one. Smith would like to see clearer information on how to get started, while shining a light on real examples of women who’ve built successful careers in broking space. 

“Mentoring programs should be more accessible, affordable or even subsidised, and focused on real guidance, not fluff or one size fits all.

“We also need more genuine support networks where women can connect, share openly, and get practical help. And finally, we should rethink how success is measured. It can’t just be about volume, it should be more holistic, recognising leadership, client impact, and contribution to the industry.”

Letting loose on the field

When Smith is not being a successful broker, you can find her on the footy field, where she plays and coaches AFL.

“I love it, the training, the competition, and being part of a team of young women who bring so much drive and energy every week.”

Smith has a particular passion for coaching the under-13s team. “They’re fearless, funny and completely all in, their energy is infectious, it's great to be around.”

Ask Smith mid-season though, and she might tell you “what free time?”

“Between footy, running a business, and my two kids requiring my elite taxi business services, life’s full on, and chaos seems to be my natural state.”