ZEP Finance:
Our Role as Finance Educators

Empowering Everyday Australians

At ZEP Finance, we believe the whole point of being a mortgage broker is to help people. This not only involves sourcing loan structures that support a client’s long-term goals, but it’s also about educating everyday Australians to make wise financial decisions.

That’s why ZEP Finance is actively involved in a range of community initiatives designed to empower people to take control of their finances. In addition to hosting free seminars and sharing video content explaining various finance topics, our Director, Zain Peart, is also happy to participate in radio interviews.

Zain takes his role as a finance educator seriously, so he uses these opportunities to share relevant and practical advice that can help a wide range of Australian borrowers secure lending finance. 

Zain Peart Photo

New Banking Code of Practice: What It Means for Customers

With banks making record profits, a new code of practice aims to hold them accountable for unfair treatment of customers. Zain joined 9News to break down how this code will improve financial hardship support, protect small businesses and introduce stricter rules for guarantors. Watch the full interview to learn what these changes mean for you and how to ensure your bank is doing the right thing.

Tackling Mortgage Debt in Retirement

Zain shared his insights with 9News about why more Australians are retiring with mortgage debt and what they can do about it. From downsizing to strategic budgeting, Zain offers expert advice on managing finances to achieve a more secure retirement.

Fixed vs. Variable: Making the Right Mortgage Rate Choice

Navigating the complex world of mortgage rates can be overwhelming for Aussie homeowners, especially when banks start lowering fixed rates after a sustained period of rising interest rates across the board.

In this interview with 9 News, Zain breaks down the key differences between fixed and variable rates with an overview of the current market and the potential for future rate drops.

Financial Scams in Australia: How to Stay Safe and Protect Your Money

Financial scams are costing Australians millions every year, and no one is immune. In this interview, Zain breaks down the most common scams, who’s being targeted, and how you can protect yourself. Discover why younger generations are at greater risk, how banks are fighting fraud, and what to do if you’ve been scammed. Plus, find out why stronger laws and tech regulations are crucial in the battle against cyber fraud. Don’t miss these essential insights—watch now!

ZEP Ad Hoc Radio Thumbnail Australia Overnight Weekends

Federal Budget Housing Reforms: What Could They Mean for Australians?

Zain joined Pat Panetta on Australia Overnight to discuss the Federal Budget’s proposed housing reforms and their potential impact on property investors, renters, and homebuyers. While the changes are designed to improve housing affordability, Zain explains why some measures could reduce rental supply and place additional pressure on everyday Australians.

During the interview, Zain also shares his views on inflation, housing supply challenges, construction costs, and the role private investors play in the Australian property market. Listen to the full interview to hear his insights on how these reforms could shape the future of housing affordability in Australia.

Rethinking the Housing Crisis: Incentives, Investors & Smarter Policy

With Australia facing ongoing rental pressure and housing affordability challenges, governments continue introducing reforms aimed at protecting tenants and improving access. But what happens when well-intentioned policy creates unintended consequences? How do changes to capital gains tax and investor regulations affect supply? Could reducing incentives discourage everyday investors and ultimately push rents higher? And are there smarter ways to encourage sustainable growth, such as supporting first home buyers to invest or expanding modular construction?

In this interview on Australia Overnight, Zain explores the broader impact of current housing policy and outlines practical alternatives for long-term stability.

3AW Melbourne Australia Overnight Radio logo interview
2 CC talking canberra DAB radio logo interview

Can You Use Your Rental History to Help You Buy Your First Home?

For many first home buyers, the dream of owning your own home seems to be getting further away. But it’s not all doom and gloom. In this discussion with Radio 2CC Canberra, Zain explains how first home buyers can use their rental history to their advantage when applying for a mortgage. He also outlines how a rental ledger can be used instead of “genuine savings” when applying for a loan with a reduced deposit.

How Can a Mortgage Broker Help You Succeed?

Borrowers are facing more challenges than ever, thanks to inflation, rising interest rates, reduced borrowing capacity and lending criteria that are constantly evolving. How can borrowers successfully navigate today’s finance landscape?

In this discussion with Australia Overnight Radio, Zain discusses how borrowers can use the industry expertise of a broker to their advantage. Whether you’re a first home buyer, an existing homeowner or a borrower in an older age bracket, Zain shows how having a broker on your side could make all the difference.

3AW Melbourne Australia Overnight Radio logo interview
3AW Melbourne Australia Overnight Radio logo interview

Will the Government’s Plan for Affordable Housing Succeed?

In the recent budget, the federal government committed to building 1.2 million affordable homes over the next five years. However, with an uncoordinated housing policy, increasing investor costs and the current strain on the construction sector, many are questioning whether this proposed plan will be able to deliver more affordable housing for everyday Australians.

In discussing this with Australia Overnight Radio, Zain outlines why he believes more needs to be done for this housing policy to succeed.

What are the Benefits and Potential Risks of Guarantor Loans?

With the increasing pressures on first home buyers, more young Australians are turning to the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ for help.
  • How can parents assist their children with securing finance?
  • What are the benefits of having a guarantor on a home loan?
  • What are the potential risks of acting as a guarantor?
  • What other options are available for first home buyers?

In this interview with Radio 2CC Canberra, Zain answers some of the biggest questions first home buyers (and their parents) have about guarantor loans.

2 CC talking canberra DAB radio logo interview
2GB Sydney Radio Interview

Bank in hot water over not helping hardship customers

NAB is facing legal action from ASIC in the Federal Court, claiming they didn’t respond to hundreds of customers facing financial hardship fast enough.

Zain spoke on 2GB Sydney and 4BC Brisbane to Clinton Maynard saying governments should tighten up the regulations so banks are forced to respond faster during tough times.

Zain explained he is seeing numerous customers facing hardship that is worsened by banks taking too long to respond and help – banks currently have a 21-day timeframe to respond to customers.

Calls for Stricter Bank Regulations to Help Customers Facing Hardship

Zain spoke to Curtain FM to discuss the ongoing issue of banks taking too long to assist struggling customers. The bank’s current 21-day timeframe can exacerbate financial difficulties for many who need support much faster.

With ASIC taking legal action against NAB for its slow response to hardship applications, Zain believes it’s crucial to strengthen regulations to protect consumers during tough economic times.

Zain is urging for tighter regulations on banks to ensure faster response times for customers facing financial hardship.

Curtin Radio FM
ZEP Ad Hoc Radio Thumbnail Australia Overnight Weekends

What the Interest Rate Cut Means for Australian Homeowners

Zain joined Pat Panetta on Australia Overnight to discuss the latest interest rate cut and what it means for mortgage holders. While a 0.25% reduction is a step in the right direction, Zain explains why homeowners should stay focused on budgeting and financial stability rather than celebrating too soon. Even with a small rate cut, Zain reveals many Australians will still feel the pinch of higher costs. Listen to the full interview to hear his insights on managing repayments, keeping financial buffers and making smart property decisions in today’s market.

Are Interest Rate Cuts Enough to Ease Mortgage Stress?

Zain joined Ron Wilson on 2SM Breakfast to discuss the latest interest rate cut and its impact on mortgage holders. While a 0.25% reduction is a welcome step forward, Zain explains why budgeting, financial buffers and proactive planning will still be essential in managing mortgage stress this year. One rate cut will not be a magic pill for many homeowners right now. Listen to the full interview for Zain’s expert insights on home loan strategies, seeking hardship assistance and preparing for future rate changes.

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180+ Google Reviews And Counting

finance google reviews
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Anthony Lang
2 days ago
We had a fantastic experience! Zain and his team provided exceptional service with a very easy to navigate system! Thanks !
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hollie jarrett
2 days ago
This team is exceptional. Prompt, accommodating and tireless in their work. Highly recommended
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Blake Johnson
6 days ago
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James Swain
6 days ago
Jasmine was incredible. She made the process so smooth & easy for our home loan. Her communication & knowledge was great. Jasmine kept us updated from start to finish. Couldn’t recommend her enough! Thank you!
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Brianna Edmunds
1 week ago
Myself and my husband felt supported and secure in the biggest financial decision we've ever made. Zain, Karina, Trudy and Melissa are a fantastic team who help you through each stage of the process and are always checking in. A great team who helped us so much, thankyou ZEP team 💓
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Michael Pride
2 weeks ago
Always been a great experience dealing with Zep, a very friendly and proficient team. Highly recommend.
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Scott Zurvas
3 weeks ago
Amazing service, highly recommended to anyone seeking a mortgage broker
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Sarah Amery
3 weeks ago
We have been working with ZEP finance for over 4 years now and they have not missed a beat. Excellent service and advice that is always up to date with current economic climates.
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Lynda&Alan
3 weeks ago
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Nathan Anson
3 weeks ago
Zep Finance are really great to work with .Zane runs through everything and doesn’t rush the process . Definitely recommend