Financial Planning Week: Why Financial Advice is for everyone

Planning is not everyone’s forte, especially when it comes to money and budgeting. So it’s no surprise that new research from the Financial Planning Association of Australia suggests that 80 per cent of working-age Australians are stressed about money and finances.

Other research shows the number of Australians living from paycheque to paycheque is on the rise from 29% in 2015, to 32% in 2017, while the National Debt Helpline is struggling with the volume of calls flooding its call centre. And official data published by the Reserve Bank in July showed that Australian household debt was at new all-time high.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. A common misconception is that only those with high incomes can benefit from financial advice. In fact, everyone can benefit from meeting with a financial adviser. From consolidating your superannuation accounts to selecting the most appropriate insurance options for your lifestyle, a financial adviser can be your one stop shop to freedom by having your finances sorted.

Once you’ve made the decision to seek financial advice, it’s important to find someone you trust – after all, they will be handling your finances and sensitive information. Ask friends or family if they have any recommendations, or Google advisers in your local area. Most should offer a free introductory meeting where you can get to know them and ask about the process and any fees involved.

Because everyone’s goals are different, a financial adviser is able to tailor the plan to suit your needs and lifestyle. Whether it’s to buy your first home, take your family on that dream holiday or to retire early, your adviser is there to help you with the right products and path to get you where you want to be.

It’s important to meet with your financial adviser regularly, so they can adapt your plan to suit market trends or your changing goals.

Ready to start your path to financial freedom? Infocus has a large and growing network of advisers around Australia – so there’s a good chance there’s one near you. Find your nearest adviser at www.infocus.com.au or phone 1300 463 628.

Rod Bristow
Managing Director and CEO