What does a financial advisor do?
Financial advisors help individuals and businesses make informed decisions about their finances. This can include providing advice on budgeting, investments, superannuation, retirement planning, insurance, and wealth management. Financial advisors assess a client’s goals and financial position, explain options clearly, and develop strategies to support long-term financial wellbeing.Financial advisors may work in banks, accounting or advisory firms, wealth management companies, or operate in private practice. Their role requires a strong understanding of financial markets, regulations, and ethical responsibilities.
Is a career as a financial advisor right for me?
A career in financial advice may suit you if you enjoy working with people and helping them plan for the future. Useful skills and attributes for this profession include:
- strong communication and interpersonal skills
- confidence working with numbers and financial data
- attention to detail
- ethical judgement and professionalism
- the ability to build long-term client relationships
- analytical and problem-solving skills.
How to become a financial advisor
If you are exploring how to become a financial advisor, the pathway in Australia involves meeting education and professional standards set by the financial services regulator. This typically includes completing an approved bachelor's degree, passing a national exam, and undertaking a professional year of supervised practice.
A financial advisor course at university level usually focuses on finance, economics, accounting, investment principles, ethics, and financial planning. Ongoing professional development is required to maintain compliance and remain current with regulatory and industry changes.
Every journey to study is individual, and there are several pathways to building a career in financial advice depending on your background and goals.
View UniSQ’s Accounting and Finance degrees.
Average salary per week
$2320
Future demand
Moderate
Industries
Related careers
Source: yourcareer.gov.au
© Commonwealth of Australia
Financial advisor FAQ's
What are the key financial advisor qualifications?
Financial advisor qualifications generally include an approved bachelor's degree in financial planning, finance, business, or a related discipline. Advisors must also meet professional and ethical standards, complete a professional year, pass the national adviser exam, and undertake ongoing professional development.
What is the typical financial advisor career path?
A financial advisor career path often begins in entry-level roles such as client services officer, paraplanner, or associate advisor. With experience and completion of professional requirements, individuals may progress to authorised financial advisor roles, senior advisor positions, or business ownership within advisory practices.
What financial advisor course can I study?
A financial advisor course at university level covers financial planning, investment analysis, superannuation, risk management, ethics, and regulatory frameworks. UniSQ offers study options that support students seeking a career in financial advice and wealth management.
How long does it take to become a financial advisor?
Completing a bachelor's degree typically takes around three years of full-time study. Following this, graduates must complete a professional year and pass the national exam before providing unsupervised financial advice. The total timeframe can vary depending on individual circumstances.
Is financial advice a good career?
Financial advice can be a rewarding career for those who enjoy helping others achieve financial security. With ongoing demand for qualified professionals and clear regulatory standards, financial advisors play an important role in supporting informed financial decision making.
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