Founder and Managing Director

Mhairi Macleod

Awarded as Australia's 2022 Broker of the Year for specialist lending - our Founder and Director, Mhairi’s passion for excellence underpins the success and growth of Astute Ability Finance Group.

Committed to achieving results, Mhairi is passionate about supporting her clients to achieve their business and personal goals by finding a financial solution that is right for them. Her highly developed communication skills are key to the success of her long-standing customer, lender, and supply chain associations.

Mhairi is an expert in all areas of finance and utilises over two decades of industry experience to tailor loan options in line with her client’s unique financial circumstances. In addition to offering an Australia-wide service, Mhairi arranges every type of finance imaginable, and she is renowned for negotiating difficult deals with lenders and making the impossible happen. She has a strong customer focus, along with a solution and results driven approach and believes in the importance of building solid, trusting relationships with clients, the community and the finance industry.

Recognised and awarded as an industry leader, Mhairi advocates, commentates, and guest speaks to and on behalf of the finance industry. Additionally, she generously contributes her time, expertise, and knowledge towards the betterment of the finance sector via the numerous industry panels and boards she sits on.

Mortgage Broker

David Hancock

David is our mortgage expert here at Astute. He has access to over 40 lenders. So, whether you are looking to buy your first home, upgrade, buy an investment property or refinance, David will help you find the best solution for your goals and circumstances.

David can also assist with commercial loans and SMSF lending. He has worked with numerous teachers, nurses and wage earners across a variety of industries. David has worked with business owners from sole traders to large companies for their lending needs.

Previously, David worked in the education industry for over 20 years. He brings his passion for helping people, clear communication and education to clients looking to get a home loan which suits their needs.

When David isn’t helping clients with their loans, he enjoys spending time with his family and keeping fit.

Operations Manager / Executive Assistant

Esther Batau

Esther Batau is an accomplished Executive Assistant and Operations specialist at Astute Ability Finance Group, where she also contributes significantly to the Broker Support Team. With years of experience in the finance industry, Esther has built a strong reputation for her efficiency, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering exceptional client service.
In her role, she provides high-level administrative support while managing the submission of loan applications on behalf of clients, working closely with brokers to ensure accuracy and a smooth process from start to finish. Her ability to juggle complex responsibilities with professionalism and care makes her an integral part of the team.
Esther is currently pursuing a Diploma in Mortgage Broking, further strengthening her knowledge and positioning herself for continued growth in the lending and financial services space. She is passionate about creating positive outcomes for clients and contributing to a supportive, high-performing team environment.

Originally from Fiji, Esther brings a warm, grounded perspective to her work. Outside the office, she enjoys spending quality time with her two beloved cats, who bring joy and balance to her busy schedule.

Credit Analyst / Broker Support Officer

Tamara Corrie

Tamara is a valued addition to the Astute Ability Finance Group team, bringing with her a proactive mindset and a strong commitment to excellence. Her enthusiasm for tackling challenges and her results-driven approach ensure tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standard.

With over a decade of experience in retail and administration, Tamara has developed exceptional interpersonal and organisational skills, enabling her to engage effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds.

Since joining Astute, she has demonstrated a strong dedication to professional development, completing comprehensive training modules through COG and undertaking in-depth research. This continuous learning equips her to provide informed support to clients, particularly in more complex or specialised scenarios.

Outside the office, Tamara enjoys being with her family, cooking, baking and volunteering with her local church.