Skip to main content

About Us

The National Pawnbrokers Association of Australia (NPAA) is the first national body dedicated to representing and advocating for the pawnbroking industry across the country. We are a member-led, not-for-profit organisation committed to supporting Australian pawnbrokers, strengthening industry standards, and promoting ethical and professional practices.

Our Mission
To represent the interests of Australian pawnbrokers at a national level, advocate for fair and practical legislation, provide education and resources for members, and foster consumer confidence in the pawnbroking profession.
Who We Represent

NPAA represents a diverse community of licensed pawnbrokers and second-hand dealers ranging from family-owned shops to multi-store operators united by a shared commitment to professionalism, integrity, and responsible trading.

What We Do

Advocacy

We speak on behalf of the industry to government, regulators, and media, ensuring that pawnbrokers’ voices are heard and respected in policy making and public discourse.

Industry Standards

We promote best practices and ethical standards, helping members operate confidently within a clear and consistent framework.

Support & Resources

We offer access to legal updates, compliance tools, business advice, training opportunities, and peer-to peer support.

Public Awareness

We work to improve public understanding of the modern pawnbroking industry and highlight the valuable service it provides to individuals and communities.
Why We Exist 

For too long, Australian pawnbrokers have operated without a unified national platform. The NPAA was established to fill this gap bringing the industry together to address shared challenges, celebrate our role in the retail and asset-lending landscape, and ensure a sustainable future for pawnbroking in Australia.

Join the Movement
If you’re a licensed pawnbroker or second-hand dealer, we invite you to become a member and be part of a national voice shaping the future of our profession.
Meet The Executive

Leanne Coneybear

PRESIDENT

Loan Lenders

More Info

Michael Saller

Treasurer
Saller Corp Pawnbrokers
More Info

John Kininjjew

Secretary & Chair of Working Groups
Pawnit Systems
More Info
Leanne Coneybear
PRESIDENT

Leanne is the founder and principal of one of the Gold Coast’s most respected asset-lending pawnbroking businesses, established in 2009. With over 25 years of experience in international business, including a significant tenure in Silicon Valley, USA, she brings global insight, strategic leadership, and professionalism to the pawnbroking industry. Since transitioning into pawnbroking, Leanne has built a business renowned for integrity, transparency, and customer focus, and is recognised as a trusted figure in the field with more than 16 years of hands-on Australian pawnbroking experience.

A qualified Gemmologist, Certified Diamond Grader, and Registered Valuer, Leanne holds a Diploma in Gemmology & Applied Jewellery Valuations and a Certificate IV in Mortgage and Finance Broking. Her combined expertise in gemmology and financial services enables her to provide precise assessments of high-value items, from fine jewellery to luxury goods. An active member of key industry organisations, Leanne is passionate about promoting professionalism, ethical standards, and consumer protection while advancing the growth and evolution of the pawnbroking sector locally and nationally.

Leanne can be contacted directly at president@nationalpawnbrokers.org.au

Michael Saller
Treasurer

Michael is the General Manager of Saller Corp Pawnbrokers, a franchise of the well-known Western Sydney pawnbroking brand, Mega Cash. At just 21 years of age, with the backing of investors, Michael opened Mega Cash Penrith and has since successfully grown both the store and the broader Saller Corp Group.

While managing the Mega Cash Penrith and South Windsor stores, Michael has also built a strong professional foundation as a qualified Accountant, with several years’ experience at Deloitte. This background has enabled him to combine sound financial and operational expertise with his passion for pawnbroking. Michael is committed to operating businesses with the highest levels of integrity and transparency, always prioritising honest and ethical relationships with customers. As Treasurer of the National Pawnbrokers Association, he aims to leverage his dual expertise in accounting and pawnbroking to support and strengthen the industry through improved understanding of business operations, financial discipline, and sustainable growth.

Michael can be contacted directly at treasurer@nationalpawnbrokers.org.au

John Kininjjew
Secretary & Chair of Working Groups

John has over 28 years of experience in the pawnbroking industry, working across small independent stores to large chain stores. For the past 15 years, he has focused on developing the industry’s most widely used pawn shop management software, helping businesses operate efficiently and grow successfully. In addition, John spent 10 years in his spare time with a community not-for-profit organisation in roles spanning IT, event management, and people management, broadening his expertise in technology and leadership.

With extensive knowledge across all Australian states, John brings a deep passion and unwavering commitment to the pawnbroking industry. He is dedicated to supporting pawnbrokers through innovative solutions, practical expertise, and a thorough understanding of business operations, helping them navigate challenges and unlock new opportunities.

John can be contacted directly at secretary@nationalpawnbrokers.org.au

Support Staff

Tania Hedges

ADMIN MANAGER

Luvluxe

More Info
Tania Hedges
ADMIN MANAGER

Tania brings over a decade of pawnbroking expertise, strengthened by a career in technology, real estate, and high-stakes negotiations. Her leadership has established her authority in asset valuation, regulatory compliance, and client operations. Previously, she was National Sales Manager for a leading computer distributor, partnering with companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Cisco, giving her a unique edge in modernizing pawn operations from data security to digital customer engagement.

Certified in luxury authentication for brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, YSL, and Gucci, and holding a GIA Diploma and De Beers Diamond Certificate, Tania combines gemmology precision and tech expertise to transform asset risk into opportunity. She empowers pawn businesses to navigate authentication challenges, optimize valuations, and unlock new revenue streams through innovative, technology-driven solutions.

Tania can be contacted directly at info@nationalpawnbrokers.org.au

Working Groups
Working Group Members play a key role in representing the National Pawnbrokers Association of Australia within their jurisdiction. They serve as a vital link between the Association, members, and key stakeholders, helping to strengthen communication, engagement, and industry representation across Australia.

Shanon Folden

Chair – NSW/ACT

Happy Hockers

More Info

Shael Dawson

Interim Chair – QLD

Monty’s Pawnbrokers

More Info

Shaun Deans

Interim Chair – VIC/TAS

Pawnit Systems

More Info

Amanda Brown

Chair – SA/NT/WA

Cashzone

More Info
Shanon Folden

CHAIR – NSW/ACT

Shanon is the General Manager of Happy Hockers and has over 20 years’ experience in the pawnbroking and second-hand goods industry. Featured on Pawn Stars Australia, he is known for his clear, straight-talking approach with customers and colleagues alike. Shanon has a strong interest in the history and stories behind the items he handles and is an active collector himself. He has substantial experience with New South Wales legislative and compliance requirements and is committed to helping people access fair, practical solutions while promoting high professional standards within the industry.

Shanon can be contacted directly at nsw-act@nationalpawnbrokers.org.au

Shael Dawson

INTERIM CHAIR – QLD

Shael began his career at Monty’s Pawnbrokers in Brisbane in 1999, a business with a proud and storied history dating back to 1856. Through dedication, industry knowledge, and a deep respect for the craft, Shael worked his way from the shop floor to store manager, director, before becoming the owner in 2014. His journey reflects a lifelong commitment to the traditional values of pawnbroking, blended with a modern appreciation for quality, trust, and service.

With a strong focus on pre-loved goods, jewellery repairs and manufacturing, luxury items, and fine art, Shael continues to champion the enduring relevance of the pawnbroking industry. Beyond the business, he is an avid philanthropist who proudly supports the important work of several charities, including the McGrath Foundation, Brisbane Youth Service, Foodbank, and Movember. His professional leadership and community involvement highlight a genuine passion for both the industry and the people it serves.

Shael can be contacted directly at qld@nationalpawnbrokers.org.au

Amanda Brown

CHAIR – SA/NT/WA

Amanda is the CEO of Cashzone, driving the modernisation of the pawnbroking industry through ethical leadership, sustainability, and practical innovation. She is dedicated to reducing waste, promoting responsible practices, and developing systems that genuinely support both people and communities.

A key focus of her work is challenging the stigma often associated with pawnbroking. Amanda champions transparency, fairness, and greater public awareness of the vital role the industry plays in the lives of everyday Australians. Through smarter processes and a community‑centred approach, she is reshaping how pawnbroking is perceived and experienced.

At Cashzone, Amanda leads with clarity, accountability, and a forward‑thinking mindset, building a brand defined by trust, sustainability, and meaningful real-world impact.

Amanda can be contacted directly at sa-nt-wa@nationalpawnbrokers.org.au

Shaun Deans

INTERIM CHAIR – VIC/TAS

Shaun serves as Interim Chair, supporting and advocating for the pawnbroking industry across Victoria and Tasmania. With many years of experience in the IT sector, he has developed extensive expertise in lending management software and complex systems designed for regulated environments.

Now a member of the Pawnit Systems team, Shaun advises and works closely with developers to refine and perfect their products, with a strong focus on the pawnbroking and secondhand dealing industry. He has a particular passion for legislation and compliance, ensuring that technology solutions not only perform effectively but also meet evolving regulatory requirements and industry standards.

Shaun can be contacted directly at vic-tas@nationalpawnbrokers.org.au

Contact the Association

We’re here to help. Whether you have a question about membership, industry resources, or general enquiries, the National Pawnbrokers Association team is ready to assist. Get in touch with us today. We’d love to hear from you and support you in any way we can.

Full Name(Required)