Financial Advice in Australia: What You Get, What to Avoid

Searching for financial advice Australia isn’t a sign you’ve “made it” – it’s a sign you’re thinking ahead. And despite the lingering myth, financial advice isn’t just for the wealthy or nearing retirement. It’s for everyday Australians who want clarity, confidence, and a plan that actually fits real life.

Whether you’re juggling rising living costs, planning for a family, thinking about investing, or simply wondering if you’re on the right track, the right advice can make all the difference. Let’s cut through the noise and talk about what financial advice in Australia really looks like today, what you get for it, and what to avoid.

What Is Financial Advice (and What It Isn’t)?

At its best, financial advice is strategic, personal, and practical. It’s not about chasing hot tips or being sold products you don’t understand.

Good financial advice in Australia typically helps with:

• Cash flow and budgeting – understanding where your money is going and how to improve it

• Superannuation – contributions, investment options, consolidation, and retirement planning

• Investing – building a strategy that matches your goals and risk tolerance

• Insurance – protecting your income, family, and lifestyle

• Tax efficiency and structuring – keeping more of what you earn

• Life changes – redundancy, career shifts, buying property, starting a family, or retirement

Advice can be comprehensive (your full financial picture) or scoped to a specific issue. Many Australians start with targeted advice – a super check, an insurance review, or a second opinion – and build from there.

In short: advice should meet you where you are, not where someone thinks you “should” be.

What Does Financial Advice Cost in Australia?

Let’s keep this grounded.

Financial advice in Australia is generally provided on a fee-for-service basis, meaning you pay for the advice you receive, not hidden commissions or product kickbacks.

Costs vary depending on:

• The complexity of your situation

• Whether you need one-off advice or ongoing support

• The scope of work involved

In practice, this may include:

• A one-off fee for specific advice (like super or insurance guidance)

• A project fee to create a financial plan

• An ongoing advice fee for regular reviews and strategy updates

The important part isn’t the dollar figure – it’s value and fit.

Financial advice is not reserved for high-income earners. Many Australians engage advisers for targeted help, not a full financial overhaul. A good adviser will scale the advice to your needs, explain costs clearly upfront, and make sure the advice genuinely earns its keep.

Where Australians Access Financial Advice

There’s no single “right” entry point. Here are the most common ways Australians access financial advice:

Independent Financial Advisers

Private advisers, such as HPartners, provide tailored advice across your broader financial situation. This suits people wanting personalised strategy, long-term planning, or help navigating complexity.

Superannuation Funds

Many super funds offer included or low-cost advice to members, typically focused on super, insurance within super, and retirement planning. A solid starting point.

Online & Digital Advice

Robo-advice and online platforms can work for simpler investing needs. They’re generally lower cost, but limited in personalisation and scope.

Financial Counsellors

If you’re under financial stress or dealing with debt, registered financial counsellors offer free, confidential support. This isn’t financial planning, but it is invaluable help when things feel heavy.

No matter the pathway, anyone providing personal financial advice in Australia must be properly licensed.

What to Avoid When Seeking Financial Advice

The industry has come a long way, but it pays to stay sharp.

Vague or Confusing Fees

If fees aren’t explained clearly in plain English, that’s a problem. Transparency isn’t optional.

Product-First Conversations

Advice should start with your goals, not a product pitch. Strategy always comes first.

Undisclosed Conflicts

Some advisers are restricted in what they can recommend or may receive commissions on certain products (such as insurance). This must be disclosed clearly so you can make an informed decision.

Unlicensed Operators

Never accept personal financial advice from someone who isn’t authorised. Always check the ASIC Financial Advisers Register before proceeding.

How to Choose the Right Financial Adviser

The right adviser isn’t the cheapest – they’re the one who understands you.

Look for someone who:

• Is properly licensed and qualified

• Communicates clearly and without jargon

• Tailors advice to your goals and circumstances

• Is upfront about fees and scope

• Focuses on long-term outcomes, not quick wins

Most advisers offer an initial conversation at no cost. Treat it like an interview. Ask questions. Trust your instincts.

This is a relationship, not a transaction.

Why Financial Advice Isn’t Just for the Wealthy

One of the biggest myths around financial advice is that you need a certain income or net worth to “qualify”.

In reality, advice is often most valuable:

• When money feels tight

• When life is changing

• When you want confidence, not guesswork

The goal isn’t perfection. It’s progress.

Ready to Talk to a Human About Your Finances?

At HPartners, financial advice is built around real people – not spreadsheets alone.

Whether you’re just getting started, feeling stuck, or planning your next chapter, their advisers focus on clarity, strategy, and advice that actually fits your life.

✔ No judgement
✔ Clear, upfront conversations
✔ Advice that meets you where you are

Book a conversation with HPartners and take the stress out of financial decision-making.

Any advice is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your needs, objectives or financial situation. Before acting on it, you should consider its appropriateness for you, having regard to those factors. Before making any decision about whether to acquire a financial product, you should obtain the Product Disclosure Statement.