About Us

We are here to help our clients meet their financial goals. Whether you are a first home buyer, self-employed, work in a professional industry, have a complex business structure or retired - our team will work with you to find the right lending solution for your needs.

Our success is based on our client's success

Values

Balaton Financial was built on the values of efficiency, precision, innovation, reliability and discretion. 15 years later, we are proud to say that these values remain and are at the core of everything we do.

Service

We believe that the lending process should not be arduous nor does the journey stop at settlement. Our team are here to listen to your needs, help complete application processes, act as the conduit between stakeholders and support our clients in their on-going financial journey.

Team

Matt Pongrass

Matt Pongrass

Managing Director |
Finance Broker

Matt has built his reputation as a Finance Broker that secures optimal lending solutions for clients. A financial services specialist, Matt was previously a Business Banker at Macquarie Bank where he advised corporations and individuals on debt structuring, debt management, and property acquisition. During his 15 years at Balaton Financial (previously Certe Finance), Matt has been able to leverage his strong network of lenders and banking expertise to specialise in cost-effective, tax-efficient loans. He collaborates closely with all advisers, including Agents, Accountants, Financial Advisers and Lawyers, to ensure clients have a frictionless experience.

Ollie Lum

Ollie Lum

Director |
Finance Broker

Oliver brings a unique perspective to Balaton Financial with a diverse background in product sales and financial services. He is focussed on building relationships with clients and oversees the loan process from end-to-end. Oliver specialises in self-employed, tech and property developer clients with complex structures. Over the last ten years, he has built a track-record of using lending products in non-traditional ways to ensure the best outcome.

Piyush Handa

Piyush Handa

Head of Credit

Piyush is a qualified CA and CPA with over 15 years of experience in leading finance functions for multinational organisations, including Optus and Fiat Motors. After transitioning into commercial and mortgage broking in 2021, he specialises in complex lending scenarios spread across commercial lending, sophisticated investors, SMSF and multi entity self-employed structures. Piyush brings an accounting and tax lens, excelling at dissecting intricate financials to identify the ideal lender‑product fit and strategy. He has swiftly developed a strong track record for out of the box, seamless lending solutions within a fast turnaround that keeps the client experience in focus.

Kathleen Forrester

Kathleen Forrester

Relationship Manager |
Finance Broker

Kathleen has over ten years of experience in the brokerage sector. She provides a strategic, outcome driven approach to help clients achieve their financial and property goals. Kathleen brings diverse experience in adjacent industries, including property management, trust accounts, and funding management, which facilitates seamless transactions for clients.

Adam Humoudi

Adam Humoudi

Relationship Manager |
Finance Broker

Adam is a financial services native with over 10 years experience across Bank West, Lendi and Westpac. His background spans roles as a Home Loan Specialist, Broker, Credit Analyst and KYC/Risk Remediation Analyst. Adam brings his skills in customer service, financial analysis, risk management, and regulatory compliance to Balaton Financial with a focus on finding the right credit solution for his clients.

Lending solutions from a trusted brokerage and debt advisory team