How to choose a financial planner in Australia (2026 checklist)

Choose a financial planner by checking these five things first: (1) relevant credentials and registration with the appropriate industry body, (2) a minimum of 50+ public reviews averaging 4.5+, (3) transparent itemised pricing in a written quote, (4) availability within your timeframe, and (5) responsiveness to your initial enquiry. Shortlist 3 candidates, ask the same 5 questions of each, and choose the one that scores highest on communication and value — not just the lowest price.

Initial advice (Statement of Advice): $3,300-$5,500 typical, up to $8,000 for complex situations. Ongoing advice: $3,000-$8,000/year for $500k-$2M households. Hourly: $300-$600/hr. Robo-advice (Stockspot, Six Park): $50-$140/month. Many planners offer free 30-minute initial discovery calls before you commit. Fee structures matter: flat fees are typically better for clients than asset-based fees (which penalise portfolio growth) or commission-based fees (banned for most products since 2014).

Verify on ASIC Financial Adviser Register (moneysmart.gov.au) — every licensed adviser is listed with qualifications, employment history, and any disciplinary action. Look for: CFP (Certified Financial Planner) or higher qualification, independent or non-aligned (not owned by a bank), upfront transparent fees, willingness to walk you through their fee structure, listening to your goals before recommending products. Avoid: anyone who recommends specific products before understanding your situation, "free" advice that's actually commission-based.

Bank planners can be competent but face structural conflicts: limited product approval lists (often only their bank's in-house funds), pressure to meet sales targets, less competitive insurance pricing. Generally fine for: super consolidation, basic insurance review, mortgage-related advice. Independent planners are better for: complex investments, retirement strategy, aged care, estate planning, business owners. Always check the ASIC Financial Adviser Register to verify their qualifications and any past disciplinary actions.

Earlier is better — small optimisations compound over decades. Common trigger points: turning 50 (10-15 years from retirement), receiving an inheritance or redundancy, considering early retirement, planning aged care for parents, divorce/separation, starting a business, or investments exceeding $250,000. Even a one-off Statement of Advice at age 35 to optimise super and insurance can save $200,000-$500,000 over a lifetime through compounding.

Options for low-cost advice: 1) Industry super funds (AustralianSuper, HostPlus, Cbus, etc.) offer simple super-related advice free or for $0-$500. 2) Robo-advisers like Stockspot ($66/month) or Six Park ($150/month). 3) MoneySmart (moneysmart.gov.au) — free government education resources. 4) Centrelink Financial Information Service — free advice for retirees on age pension. 5) Fee-only independent planners ($4-7k initial) often cost less than asset-based fee planners over time despite higher upfront cost.