A Personal Financial Planner helps people and companies build and protect their wealth. They look at income, assets, debts, and risk. Then they build plans covering investments, super, tax, and estate planning.
To work as a financial adviser in Australia, planners need an approved degree. They must pass the ASIC financial adviser exam. Then they complete a professional year before working on their own. These steps ensure high standards for anyone giving personal financial advice to retail clients.
Financial planners build long-term client ties. They review plans often, adjust strategies as markets shift, and keep clients on track. Clear advice and strong ethics sit at the heart of every client meeting.
Around 63,400 financial investment advisers and managers work in Australia, with around 900 new roles each year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). A known shortage of licensed advisers means real entry chances. Career paths range from paraplanning to senior advisory roles.
Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.