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About Black Pen Lending

Since 2013, Black Pen Lending has been helping Australians navigate the home loan process — finding the right finance solution for their unique circumstances, goals, and lifestyle.

With offices in Orange and Forbes, NSW, we serve clients across regional and metropolitan NSW, Sydney, Melbourne, the Northern Territory, and beyond. Geography is no barrier — our expert mortgage brokers can help you wherever you are in Australia.

By the numbers

  • 145+ combined years of industry experience
  • 40+ lenders compared to find your best deal
  • Two convenient locations: Orange & Forbes NSW
  • Clients assisted across regional and metropolitan NSW, Sydney, Melbourne, and the Northern Territory
  • 2024 Australian Mortgage Awards Finalist — Regional Broker Office of the Year
  • Matt Derham nominated for 2025 Australian Mortgage Awards Finalist – Regional Broker of the Year
About Black Pen Lending
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Our Mission

We believe every Australian deserves straightforward, honest advice when it comes to one of the biggest financial decisions of their life. Whether you’re a first home buyer, an investor looking at SMSF lending, a self-employed borrower, or someone refinancing — we’re here to make the process simple, transparent, and stress-free.

Why Choose Black Pen Lending?

Access to 40+ lenders - not just one bank

Unlike going directly to your bank, working with a mortgage broker gives you access to a wide panel of lenders. That means we can compare home loan products, interest rates, features, and fees across 40+ lenders to find the most competitive option for your situation.

145+ years of combined mortgage broker experience

Our team brings over 145 years of combined lending experience to the table. From first home buyer loans and investment property finance to SMSF lending, refinancing, and debt restructuring — we’ve seen it all and know how to get results.

We serve clients across Australia - not just Orange NSW

Headquartered in Orange and Forbes, we regularly assist clients in Wagga Wagga, Port Macquarie, the Northern Territory, Sydney, Melbourne, and throughout regional NSW.

Specialists in SMSF lending and investment finance

We’re seeing strong demand in the SMSF lending space and have a growing number of clients using their self-managed super funds for property purchases and refinancing. If you’re exploring this as a strategy, our brokers can walk you through what’s possible.

Free consultations - no obligation, no cost to you

Using a mortgage broker doesn’t cost you a cent, in most cases. We’re paid by the lender when your loan settles — which means you get expert advice, access to a wide range of lenders, and a dedicated broker in your corner, completely free of charge. However, in some situations, such as complex lending scenarios including SMSF or company and trust lending, or where a loan is expected to be repaid within the first 1–2 years, a service fee may apply.

Proudly Part of the Community

We’re not just a mortgage brokerage — we’re locals. Black Pen Lending is actively involved in the Central West NSW community and beyond, because we believe businesses should give back to the regions they serve.

  • Ronald McDonald House Charities – helping families close to home
  • Major Sponsorship Partner for the RMHC Ball
  • Glenn Atkinson is part of the RMHC Ball Committee
  • Matt Derham was a participant in the 2024 CEO Walk in my Shoes
  • Forbes Rugby Club sponsors — proud backers of local sport
  • Forbes Rugby Club & Presidents Lunch Major Sponsorship Partner (2025 & 2026)
  • Hosts of free First Home Buyer Seminars in Orange and Forbes
  • Forbes Junior Netball Association Sponsor 2026
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Who We Help

Our mortgage brokers work with clients at every stage of the property journey, including:

  • First home buyers — including Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme recipients
  • Owner-occupiers looking to upsize, downsize, or relocate
  • Property investors — residential and SMSF
  • Self-employed borrowers with non-standard income structures
  • Clients refinancing their existing home loan to a better rate
  • Those looking to restructure or consolidate debt
  • Guarantor loan applicants

Frequently asked questions

Why should I use a mortgage broker instead of going straight to my bank?

When you go directly to a bank, you’re only seeing one set of products. A mortgage broker works across a panel of 40+ lenders to find the loan that actually suits your situation — whether you’re a first home buyer, an investor, self-employed, or somewhere in between. We do the legwork, compare the options, and guide you through the whole process. That’s why around 75% of all home loans in Australia are now written through a mortgage broker.

What does it cost to work with Black Pen Lending?

Nothing. Our service is completely free for the majority of our clients. We don’t charge a fee for our service, but there are occasions where we do need to charge. We’re paid by the lender once your loan settles, which means you get access to our experience and our full lender panel at no cost to you. What you will get is a straight conversation about your borrowing capacity and the right product for your goals. No catch, no fee.

Can you help me work out how much I can borrow?

Absolutely. Sit down with us, whether that’s in person or over the phone, and we’ll walk you through exactly what you can afford to borrow based on your income, expenses, and goals. It’s free, there’s no obligation, and it’s one of the most useful conversations you can have before you start looking at property.

Will using a mortgage broker get me a better interest rate than going to the bank directly?

In most cases, yes. Because we work with a wide range of lenders and submit a high volume of loans, we’re often able to access rates and products that aren’t available to walk-in customers. And because the lenders are competing for your business, it keeps things competitive.

Do you only help clients in Orange and Forbes?

Not at all. While we’re based in Central West NSW with offices in Orange and Forbes, we help clients right across Australia, from Sydney and Melbourne to regional centres like Wagga Wagga, Port Macquarie, and the Northern Territory. There are no geographic restrictions. If you can pick up the phone, we can help.

What types of loans do you specialise in?

We work across the full range, first home buyers, owner-occupiers, investors, refinancers, guarantor loans, debt restructuring, and self-managed super fund (SMSF) lending. Whatever stage of the property journey you’re at, we’ve likely helped someone in exactly your situation.

I'm self-employed, can you still help me?

Yes, and it’s one of the areas we have a lot of experience in. Self-employed borrowers often find banks tricky to deal with directly, but there are lenders on our panel who are well set up for that. We’ll find the right fit for your circumstances.

Do you run any free events or education sessions?

We do! We believe in giving back to the communities we work in, and that means more than just writing loans. We host free first home buyer seminars and investor information nights across the region — no product push, just practical advice to help people take their next step with confidence. Keep an eye on our social media or get in touch to find out what’s coming up near you.

So what happens after our loan settles?

The relationship doesn’t stop there. We understand that you’ll likely be going to have a loan for a number of years, so it’s important that we ensure the loan you have is still the best option for you! We complete annual reviews for all of our clients and work with you to understand what your ‘Next Steps’ might look like.

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Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re buying your first home in Orange, refinancing in Forbes, or exploring investment property options anywhere in Australia — our team is ready to help. Book a free consultation today.

Orange: 02 6362 1178Forbes: 02 6850 1242

Meet Our Team!

Matt Derham
Mortgage Broker

Matt Derham

Matt built Black Pen Lending from the ground up with one goal in mind: the best possible outcome for every client.

ACL #395977
Matt built Black Pen Lending from the ground up with one goal in mind: the best possible outcome for every client. His approach is straightforward — understand the client’s situation, match them with the right lender, and keep everyone in the loop from start to finish. Matt believes in service beyond the sale, working

Glenn Atkinson
Mortgage Broker

Glenn Atkinson

With over 10 years in the industry and a background at a Big 4 Bank, Glenn brings real insight to every client conversation.

With over 10 years in the industry and a background at a Big 4 Bank, Glenn brings real insight to every client conversation. He’s known for doing the groundwork upfront — thorough research, clear communication, and keeping all parties informed so approvals happen without the stress. Whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing, or investing, Glenn’s got the experience to guide you through it. Away from work, he’s out on his small acreage near Millthorpe with his wife Renee and twin daughters Zoe and Ellie.

Amanda Stibbard
Mortgage Broker & Finance Support Manager

Amanda Stibbard

Amanda brings nearly two decades of finance experience to Black Pen Lending, including a standout career at ANZ

Amanda brings nearly two decades of finance experience to Black Pen Lending, including a standout career at ANZ where she was named National Business Banker of the Year in 2016. Since joining the team in 2021, she’s become a trusted specialist across all areas of the business — from first home buyers to seasoned investors. Amanda’s broad expertise in both personal and business lending means clients are always in capable hands. When she’s not working, she’s enjoying time with her husband and three kids.

Kayla Russell
Finance Support Manager

Kayla Russell

Kayla joined Black Pen Lending in 2023, bringing a sharp eye for organisation and a strong customer service

Kayla joined Black Pen Lending in 2023, bringing a sharp eye for organisation and a strong customer service background from her time in medical administration. She’s the kind of person who gets systems running smoothly and makes sure nothing falls through the cracks. When she’s not in the office, you’ll find her on the hockey field or out camping with the people she loves.

Katrina

Katrina

Supported by a recognised career (18 years +) in finance and small business, Katrina joined the team at Black Pen Lending in 2025.

Supported by a recognised career (18 years +) in finance and small business, Katrina joined the team at Black Pen Lending in 2025. With her excellent attention to detail, customer and community service focus and can-do attitude – clients are in great hands! Katrina works directly with the whole team and always strives to ensure our client’s experience is second to none! You’ll never know where you might see Katrina – if not at Black Pen she’s a busy bee managing time with family (and their own business) and helping a junior sporting club (or two)!

Janelle

Janelle

I've worked in banking and finance for nearly 44 years, mostly with ANZ, in varying roles, from customer service through to management.

I’ve worked in banking and finance for nearly 44 years, mostly with ANZ, in varying roles, from customer service through to management, building strong relationships with clients and colleagues alike.
I enjoy solving problems, keeping things organised and helping teams do their best work. I’m always up for a challenge and love working with people who care about what they do.
Rhian

Rhian

After gaining early work experience and balancing school and part-time work at a local gymnastics club and bowling centre.

After gaining early work experience and balancing school and part-time work at a local gymnastics club and bowling centre. Rhian quickly developed strong customer service skills and a reliable, hands-on work ethic. Alongside working with the team, she is currently completing her Certificate III in Business and Administration.
Friendly, outgoing, and always happy to lend a hand, Rhian brings positive energy to both the workplace and those around her.
Outside of work, she enjoys camping trips, spending time with friends and family, and thrives in social settings wherever she goes.
Sarah
Finance Support Manager

Sarah

Although new to the broker industry, Sarah brings a wealth of experience in client services, administration, and hospitality

Although new to the broker industry, Sarah brings a wealth of experience in client services, administration, and hospitality — along with a genuine love of working with great people. She takes a practical, people-focused approach to everything she does and thrives on creating organised, efficient environments where others feel supported and at ease.
Calm under pressure and always approachable, Sarah is the kind of person who quietly keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
Outside the office, you’ll usually find her chasing a new running goal, spending time on the family farm, or embracing the beautiful chaos of life with her husband and young kids.