What does a financial planner do?
Financial planners help individuals and families make informed decisions about their financial future. They work with clients to develop strategies around budgeting, saving, investing, superannuation, retirement planning, insurance, and wealth management. Financial planners assess financial goals, risk tolerance, and personal circumstances to provide tailored advice that supports long term financial wellbeing.Financial planners may work in advisory firms, accounting practices, banks, wealth management companies, or operate in private practice. Their role requires a strong understanding of financial markets, legislation, and ethical responsibilities.
Is a career as a financial planner right for me?
A career as a financial planner may suit you if you enjoy working closely with people and helping them plan for important life goals. Skills and attributes that are valuable in this profession include:
- strong communication and interpersonal skills
- confidence working with financial information and numbers
- attention to detail
- ethical judgement and professionalism
- the ability to build trust and long term client relationships
- analytical and problem-solving skills.
How to become a financial planner
The pathway to becoming a financial planner in Australia involves meeting education and professional standards set by the financial services regulator. This generally requires completing an approved bachelor's degree, passing a national exam, and undertaking a professional year under supervision.
Qualifications for a financial planner usually include university study in financial planning, finance, business, economics, or accounting. Ongoing professional development is required to maintain compliance and stay current with regulatory and industry changes.
Every journey to study is individual, and there are several pathways into financial planning depending on your background and career 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 planner FAQ's
What are the key qualifications for a financial planner?
Qualifications for a financial planner generally include an approved bachelor's degree aligned with financial planning standards, completion of a professional year, passing the national adviser exam, and meeting ongoing professional development requirements.
What financial planner careers are available?
Financial planner careers may include roles such as associate planner, paraplanner, authorised financial planner, senior advisor, or practice owner. With experience, some professionals move into specialist areas such as retirement planning, wealth management, or estate planning.
How long does it take to become a financial planner?
Completing a bachelor's degree typically takes around three years of full-time study. This is followed by a professional year and the national exam before you are able to provide unsupervised financial advice. Timeframes may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Is financial planning a good career?
Financial planning can be a rewarding career for those who want to help others achieve financial security. With ongoing demand for qualified professionals and clear regulatory frameworks, financial planners play an important role in supporting informed financial decision making.
What does a career as financial planner involve day to day?
A career as financial planner involves meeting with clients, analysing financial information, developing tailored strategies, preparing advice documents, and reviewing plans as client circumstances change. Strong communication and ethical practice are central to the role.
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