Small Business Finance :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Revamped Education Pathway: New Age for Financial Advisers

Revamped Education Pathway: New Age for Financial Advisers

Revamped Education Pathway: New Age for Financial Advisers?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The landscape for financial adviser education is set for a transformation as Treasury unveils its revised standards, heralding a new direction for the industry.
These changes are poised to broaden the appeal and accessibility of financial advising as a career path.

Traditionally, the journey to becoming a financial adviser was governed by stringent prerequisites, comprising:

  • Attainment of a qualification from an exclusive list focused expressly on financial advisory subjects,
  • An extensive 1,600-hour professional training year,
  • Success in the financial adviser examination,
  • Dedication to constant professional development.

Looking ahead, the Government's reform introduces a compelling shift, advocating for a broader educational qualification. Aspiring financial advisers will need to possess a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification in any field. This inclusive approach is designed to attract a diverse array of new talent to the profession.

Nevertheless, pertinent academic performance remains crucial. Candidates must achieve baseline study credentials in foundational financial domains such as finance, economics, or accounting. Additionally, they will engage in subjects essential to financial advising, which encompass ethics, regulatory and legal duties, consumer psychology, and the practical methodologies of providing financial advice.

Importantly, the new standard maintains the professional year and annual exam requirements, coupled with a commitment to continuous learning through professional education. These elements ensure that while educational doors are widened, professional rigour remains intact.

A significant departure in policy relates to adviser registration with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Post July 2026, individual advisers will not be expected to register annually with ASIC, streamlining the administrative burden on advisers. Instead, their registration under their authorising Australian Financial Services licensees will suffice.

For existing advisers, the clock is ticking to meet the revised educational criteria by the 1 January 2026 deadline. This move underscores the shift towards a more educated advisory profession while recognising prior qualifications and experience.

This news shift builds on an article originally detailed by David Jacobson for Online Resources established under Bright Corporate Law's guidance.

Whether you're a new entrant or an established professional in the field, staying informed and compliant with these evolving standards is crucial.

Published:Tuesday, 18th Feb 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

AFCA Advises SMEs to Verify Lender Membership
AFCA Advises SMEs to Verify Lender Membership
13 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has recently highlighted a critical issue affecting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): the necessity of verifying a lender's membership status before securing business financing. This advisory comes in response to a significant number of complaints that AFCA is unable to address due to the lenders' non-membership status. - read more
Coalition Proposes Easier SME Loans Without Home Collateral
Coalition Proposes Easier SME Loans Without Home Collateral
13 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
In a recent policy proposal, the Coalition has advocated for easing lending regulations to facilitate small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in obtaining business loans without the necessity of using their homes as collateral. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support the SME sector by addressing one of the significant barriers to accessing finance. - read more


Business Loans Articles

Cash Flow Tips: Managing Your Finances for Startup Success
Cash Flow Tips: Managing Your Finances for Startup Success
Cash flow is the lifeblood of any business, especially startups. It represents the total amount of money moving in and out of your business, and its management is essential for ensuring that your company can pay its bills and invest in future growth. Proper cash flow management helps to identify when money is needed, allowing businesses to make informed decisions and avoid potential crises. - read more
Commercial Property Financing: Overcoming Common Hurdles Faced by Small Businesses
Commercial Property Financing: Overcoming Common Hurdles Faced by Small Businesses
Entering the sphere of commercial property financing can often present a complex challenge for small business owners. In today's market, understanding the nuances of securing the necessary capital to invest in property can make the difference between the success or stagnation of a business. - read more


Need Help Finding a Loan?
Business Loan Quote
Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.

All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Balloon Payment:
A large payment due at the end of a balloon loan, usually after a series of smaller payments.