Gateway Bank, formerly Gateway Credit Union, is a customer-owned lender that returns profits to members instead of shareholders. This often means lower interest rates, fewer fees, and more member-focused service.
In this review, written by an expert mortgage broker in Brisbane, we look at Gateway’s home loan products, current rates and fees, eligibility criteria, and how they compare to bigger banks
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Gateway Bank Home Loan Review:
- Customer-owned bank that returns profits to members
- Generally offers lower rates and fees compared to major banks
- High customer satisfaction scores (87%)
- Strengths: Lower rates for large deposits, award-winning products, family pledge loans, unique property types
- Weaknesses: Stricter lending criteria, limited construction loans, smaller size, less suitable for self-employed
- Offers Premium Package, Fixed Rate, Basic, Family Pledge and Green Home Loans
What Are Gateway Bank's Home Loans Like?
Top 4 Things Gateway is Good At
- Strong Member Satisfaction and Recommendation – In the 2024 Annual Financial Report, Gateway Bank reports a member satisfaction score of 87%. Its Net Promoter Score (how likely members are to recommend the bank) is +47, placing it above many peers.
- Guarantor Home Loans for First Home Buyers – Gateway calls this a Family Pledge home loan product. It allows you to borrow up to 105% of the property purchase price to cover settlement costs and stamp duty.
- Unique property types – Gateway can lend for properties like studio apartments, granny flats and small blocks of units. If you are buying a property with a granny flat, they will consider using the income from the granny flat provided you give 2 years’ tax returns and a current rental agreement.
- Product Range Beyond Home Loans – Aside from home loans, Gateway offers a broad suite of financial products: savings & term deposit accounts, reverse mortgages, car & personal loans, and transaction accounts. This breadth allows cross-selling, bundling or using other product features to strengthen borrower relationships.
Top 5 things Gateway Bank aren’t so good at:
- Tougher credit criteria: They can be much more strict about your type of employment and how they check your income. For example, Gateway will phone your employer and complete an employment check if you have less than a 20% deposit.
- Construction Loans: While Gateway can do construction loans, they aren’t the best due to their progress payment process and limitations in not accepting owner-builders.
- Smaller Size: Gateway currently has over 30,000 members, which is considerably fewer than many larger customer-owned banks
- Self-employed customers: If you are self-employed, Gateway isn’t as good as some of the other banks. They will need your last 2 years’ tax returns and ATO notices of assessment (compared to some banks, which only need 1 year).
- People with bad credit: although Gateway bank does not use credit score, their Lenders mortgage insurance provider does, so you could get your loan declined if you have less than a 20% deposit.
What Are The Different Home Loan Products They Offer?
Gateway Bank has a wide range of Home Loan products, and the four most popular include:
1. Premium Package Home Loan
The Gateway Premium Package Home Loan is designed to give you flexibility, value, and peace of mind. It offers a competitive rate for the life of your loan along with special pricing on a range of banking products.
This package bundles the key features most homebuyers want under one annual fee, which is lower than many major banks.
Key Benefits
- No establishment fee
- 100% offset account (on variable loans)
- Unlimited extra repayments
- Redraw facility
- Flexible repayment options – weekly, fortnightly, or monthly
- Split your loan between fixed and variable rates
- Optional interest rate lock for up to 90 days (fees apply)
Offset Account Advantage
By linking your loan to a 100% offset account, every dollar in your account directly reduces the interest charged on your mortgage. Even small deposits make a big difference over time. There are no account-keeping or service fees, and you’ll still enjoy 24/7 access to your money with a Gateway Visa Eco Debit Card.
2. Fixed Rate Home Loan
The Gateway Premium Package Fixed Home Loan gives you the certainty of a fixed rate with the flexibility to suit your lifestyle. It helps you plan ahead, protect your budget, and avoid the impact of variable rate rises.
Key Benefits
- No establishment fee
- Fixed rate terms of 1, 2, 3, or 5 years
- Unlimited extra repayments allowed
- Flexible repayment options – weekly, fortnightly, or monthly
- Split loan option to combine fixed and variable rates
- Optional interest rate lock for up to 90 days (fees apply)
Why Choose a Split Loan?
Not sure whether to go fixed or variable? With a split loan, you can take advantage of both. For example, a $500,000 loan split 60:40 gives you $300,000 fixed and $200,000 variable. At the end of the fixed term, you can re-split or move fully to fixed or variable.
Understanding Rate Lock
Interest rates can change between your application and settlement. A rate lock secures today’s fixed rate for up to 90 days, giving you certainty. If rates drop before settlement, you’ll still benefit from the lower rate. This option is particularly useful during volatile market conditions.
Things to Note
- Offset account not available on fixed loans
- Unlimited extra repayments accepted at no cost
- Redraw facility not included (applies to variable loans only)
3. Low Rate Essentials, also known as a Basic Home Loan
The Gateway Low Rate Essentials Home Loan is a simple, flexible, and low-cost variable rate home loan. It’s perfect for first home buyers, those upgrading, or downsizing, and comes with no hidden fees.
You can borrow up to 95% of the property value for owner-occupier purchases or refinances. Choose from weekly, fortnightly, or monthly repayments, with flexible loan terms up to 30 years. There’s also the option to split your loan between fixed and variable rates to get the best of both worlds.
Key Benefits
- No establishment, annual, or monthly fees
- Unlimited extra repayments at no cost
- Redraw facility
- Flexible repayment options – weekly, fortnightly, or monthly
- Split loans allowed (up to 2 accounts without extra fees)
- Optional interest rate lock for up to 90 days on fixed portions (fees apply)
4. Family Pledge Home Loan, also known as a Guarantor Home Loan
This is a brilliant product for home buyers that don’t have a large deposit and have a family member that can assist with giving their equity in a property to bridge the deposit gap. The benefits include no LMI costs, no extra fees and costs with the standard guarantee and legal fees to apply.
The only drawback is that guarantors must be your immediate family, like parents, siblings or close relatives such as uncles and aunties. Gateway might be able to consider other guarantor relationships, but it depends on your individual situation, with the guarantee amount not being over 50% of your parent or guarantor’s property value.
Note: You cannot apply directly for a Family Pledge (guarantor) home loan through a dedicated link on Gateway Bank Australia’s website. Instead, you need to apply for a standard Gateway Bank home loan and let them know that you intend to use a family guarantee as part of your application.
5. Green Home Loan
The Gateway Green Home Loan is designed for homeowners who want to reduce their environmental impact while enjoying the flexibility of a premium home loan. This loan offers a discounted interest rate for properties with eco-friendly features, whether you’re buying, refinancing, or constructing a new build.
Key Benefits
- 100% Offset Account with Visa Eco Debit Card
- Unlimited extra repayments and redraw facility
- Option to split between fixed and variable rates
- No establishment fee
- Optional interest rate lock up to 90 days on fixed rate loans (fees apply)
- Owner-occupied loans only
Eligibility Criteria
The Green Home Loan is available for existing home purchases, refinancing, or new constructions. To qualify for the discounted rate, your property must meet one of the following:
- Residential Efficiency Scorecard Certificate – completed by an accredited assessor, showing an energy efficiency rating between 4 and 6.9 Stars. Properties rated 7 Stars or higher may qualify for a Green Plus Home Loan with a larger discount.
- Environmental enhancements planned – submit a Residential Efficiency Scorecard within 12 months of loan funding, showing a 4–6.9 Star rating.
- Eco-featured property – your home must have at least 3 of the following features:
- Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems / solar panels
- Solar battery storage
- Rain/storm water tank
- Certified double-glazed windows
- Solar hot water system
- 5 Star+ Electric Heating
- External awnings
- Solar pool heating system
- Home insulation meeting government standards
- Energy-efficient LED lighting in 75%+ of the property
- Air conditioning units rated 6 stars or higher
Gateway Bank Home Loan Features Overview
Feature | Premium Package | Low Rate Essentials | Green Home Loan |
Establishment Fee | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Offset Account | Yes | No | Yes |
Redraw Facility | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Split Loan Option | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Fixed Rate Option | Yes | No | Yes |
Rate Lock Option | Yes | No | Yes |
Green Loan Discount | N/A | N/A | Yes |
What Documents Does Gateway Bank Need For A Home Loan?
Gateway Bank’s Home loan application checklist is fairly standard compared to most banks. Assuming you are a salaried employee and you are purchasing your first home, they ask for the following:
- Signed Application Form + Membership form completed by all borrowers
- Identification documents: Current Medicare + Drivers licence or Australian passport
- 3 Months’ Bank statements showing your salary credits with the name of your employer.
- 2 Most Recent Computer-Generated Payslips
- Evidence of your Genuine Savings, which are statements to show the funds have been held for more than 3 months.
- Most recent statement showing all continuing liabilities – i.e. any open credit card, personal loan, or overdraft statements.
- Signed Contract of Sale
Where they are a bit different from some of the bigger lenders is requiring more information if you are in casual employment, contract employment or receive bonuses and commission.
- If you are in casual employment, they will need your 2 most recent payslips AND your most recent year’s PAYG Payment Summary (also known as a group certificate).
- If you are in contract employment, they need your 2 most recent payslips AND a copy of your employment contract with evidence of the remaining contract term.
- If you receive a bonus, regular commission or overtime, they will need your 2 most recent payslips AND most recent year’s PAYG Payment Summary (also known as a group certificate) AND confirmation from your employer that overtime is a condition of employment.
These aren’t extremely onerous conditions compared to some lenders, so we rate them 4 out of 5 in terms of documents required.
What Else Does Gateway Bank Offer?
Gateway Bank offers a comprehensive suite of banking products and services designed to meet the diverse needs of its members. In addition to its home loan offerings, Gateway provides a range of financial solutions, including:
Transaction & Savings Accounts
- Everyday Transaction Accounts: Designed for daily banking needs with features like contactless payments and mobile banking access.
- eMax Saver Account: An award-winning savings account offering competitive interest rates and no monthly account keeping fees.
- Goal Saver Account: A bonus interest savings account that rewards you for regular saving habits.
- Christmas Club Account: Helps you save for the festive season with high interest rates and no monthly account fees.
Personal & Car Loans
- Variable Rate Personal Loan: Offers flexible repayment options with no monthly fees and the ability to make unlimited extra repayments.
- Eco Personal Loan: A low-rate loan designed to help fund the purchase and installation of environmental upgrades.
- Debt Consolidation Loan: Simplifies your finances by consolidating multiple debts into a single loan with manageable repayments.
- Car Loan: Provides competitive interest rates and flexible terms for purchasing a new or used car.
Insurance Products
- Life Insurance: Safeguards your family’s quality of life in the event of death, severe injury, or illness.
- Home & Contents Insurance: Protects your home and belongings against unforeseen events.
- Car Insurance: Offers coverage for your vehicle against accidents, theft, and other risks.
- Landlord Insurance: Provides protection for property owners renting out their homes.
- Travel Insurance: Covers unexpected events while you’re travelling domestically or internationally.
How Is Customer-Owned Banking Different To Regular Banking?
Customer-owned banks like Gateway Bank, operate on a fundamentally different model to traditional banks. Since members own the bank, profits are returned to members rather than shareholders. This often translates to:
- Lower fees on accounts and home loans
- More competitive interest rates
- Better customer service, because members are also owners
Customer-owned banks focus on member benefits rather than maximising shareholder profits. Decisions are made with the goal of helping members save money and achieve their financial goals, rather than increasing company profits.
Advantages:
- Personalised, member-focused service
- Potentially lower home loan interest rates and fees
- Profit is reinvested into better products and services
Limitations Compared to Major Banks:
- Smaller branch and ATM networks
- Limited access to complex loan options or larger-scale financing
- Less technology infrastructure for advanced digital banking features
In short, customer-owned banking prioritizes the financial well-being of members, while traditional banks prioritize profit for shareholders.
How Can You Become A Member of Gateway Bank?
Gateway Bank is a customer-owned financial institution, which means anyone can become a member, regardless of profession or affiliation.
Steps to Become a Member:
- Complete Identification – Provide valid ID such as a driver’s licence, passport, or Medicare card.
- Pay the Membership Fee – A small one-time share subscription fee is required to become a member.
- Enjoy Full Member Benefits – Once you’re a member, you gain access to Gateway’s full range of products, including home loans, transaction accounts, savings accounts, insurance, and more.
Benefits of Membership:
- Ownership in the bank, giving you a voice in decisions
- Access to lower fees and competitive interest rates
- Profit returned to members through better products and services
Becoming a member is quick and straightforward, ensuring you can start enjoying the benefits of customer-owned banking immediately.
What Are Some Gateway Bank Customer Reviews?
Gateway Bank consistently earns high satisfaction ratings from its members. Recent surveys show an overall member satisfaction score of 87%, which is well above the average for major banks (around 78.5%). Members particularly praise:
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Fast and efficient service
- Transparent fees and competitive interest rates
Online Reviews
While member surveys are overwhelmingly positive, online reviews can be mixed. Some customers highlight:
- Pros: Clear communication, helpful mortgage advisors, and excellent member-focused service
- Cons: Limited branch network in some areas, stricter lending criteria for self-employed or casual workers
Key Takeaway
Overall, Gateway Bank enjoys a strong reputation for customer service and delivering value to members, though its smaller size can occasionally limit flexibility compared to larger banks.
Gateway Bank Home Loans Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gateway Bank and how is it different from other banks?
Gateway Bank, is a member-owned bank. Profits are returned to members instead of shareholders, which can result in lower fees, competitive home loan rates, and better customer service compared to traditional banks.
What types of home loans does Gateway Bank offer?
Gateway Bank offers a range of home loan products including:
- Premium Package Home Loan
- Fixed Rate Home Loan
- Low Rate Essentials (Basic Home Loan)
- Family Pledge Home Loan (Guarantor Home Loan)
- Green Home Loan
What are the benefits of Gateway Bank’s Premium Package Home Loan?
The Premium Package Home Loan provides a discounted interest rate, 100% offset account, unlimited extra repayments, redraw facility, optional split fixed and variable rates, and a $299 annual package fee. It also includes special pricing on insurance and term deposits.
What is the Family Pledge Home Loan and who is it suitable for?
The Family Pledge Home Loan is for borrowers with a smaller deposit who have a family member willing to use equity to help bridge the deposit gap. Benefits include no Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) costs and no extra fees for standard guarantees.
What is the Green Home Loan?
Gateway’s Green Home Loan offers a discounted interest rate for environmentally friendly homes, renovations, or new eco-builds. Eligible borrowers can receive at least a 0.15% discount on the Premium Package Variable Rate and access all Premium Package loan features.
What documents are required for a Gateway Bank home loan application?
Required documents for a Gateway Bank Home Loan typically include:
- Signed application and membership forms
- Identification documents (ID, passport, or Medicare card)
- 3 months of bank statements
- 2 most recent payslips or income evidence
- Statements for liabilities
- Contract of sale
Additional documentation may be required for self-employed, casual, or bonus-based income.
How much can I borrow from Gateway Bank?
Borrowing capacity depends on income, expenses, debts, and credit history. Gateway provides an online home loan borrowing calculator to help estimate how much you can borrow.
Who can become a member of Gateway Bank?
Anyone can become a member by providing ID and paying a small share subscription fee. There are no occupation or industry restrictions.
How does Gateway Bank’s customer satisfaction compare to other banks?
Gateway Bank consistently reports high satisfaction, with members rating 87%, compared to an average of 78.5% for major banks. Members value service, responsiveness, and member-focused banking.
What other financial products does Gateway Bank offer besides home loans?
In addition to home loans, Gateway offers transaction accounts, personal loans, savings accounts, and insurance products, giving members a full suite of banking services.
Does Gateway Bank participate in first home buyer schemes?
Yes, Gateway supports schemes like the First Home Guarantee, helping eligible buyers avoid LMI with as little as a 5% deposit.
How long does Gateway take to approve a home loan?
Approval times typically range from 5–10 business days, though complex applications, like those for self-employed borrowers, may take longer.
What fees should I expect with a Gateway home loan?
Gateway charges standard upfront fees such as application and valuation fees. Premium Package loans include an annual package fee, while basic loans have fewer ongoing costs.
How Does Gateway Compare To Other Banks?
When deciding on a home loan, it helps to see how Gateway Bank stacks up against the Big 4 banks. While Gateway offers member-focused benefits, the larger banks bring scale, branch access, and flexible product options. This table highlights key differences in interest rates, fees, loan features, and customer experience to help you make an informed choice.
Feature / Product | Gateway Bank | Big 4 Banks |
Offset Account | 100% on variable loans | Typically 80–100% on package loans |
Redraw Facility | Yes, unlimited, fee-free online | Yes, may have fees or limits |
Loan Split Options | Yes, variable/fixed | Yes, variable/fixed |
First Home Buyer Incentives | Yes, supports First Home Guarantee | Yes, varies by bank |
Customer Satisfaction (Member/Customer Score) | 87% | 78–80% |
Branch & Online Access | fewer branches + full online banking | more branches + full online banking |
Unique Home Loan Options | Green Home Loan, Family Pledge, Low Rate Essentials | Standard home loans, occasional eco-home options |
Next Steps And Getting Your Home Loan Approved
Ready to take the next step towards buying? We’re happy to help. Our team at Hunter Galloway is here to help you buy a home in Brisbane. Our experienced mortgage brokers can guide you through the home loan process, compare suitable lending options and help you understand your borrowing power.
While Gateway Bank is not currently on our lending panel, we can help you compare it against a range of other lenders and determine which home loan best suits your circumstances and financial goals.
Unlike other mortgage brokers who are just one-person operations, we have an entire team of experts dedicated to making your home loan journey as simple as possible.
If you’d like to get started, give us a call on 1300 088 065 or book a free assessment online to see how we can help.
More Resources For Homebuyers:
Disclaimer: Information is subject to change without any further notification. Any home loan application is subject to credit approval and verification of all supporting documentation. Consider this article as general in its nature and not to be taken as financial advice.
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