Do you want to be a...

Financial Planner

Also known as Financial Adviser.

Financial planners develop and implement financial plans for individuals covering all areas of finance, including taxation, retirement, superannuation, insurance and estate planning.

TASKS

Financial planners may perform the following tasks:

interview clients to determine their financial status and objectives, discussing financial options and developing financial plans and investment strategies
monitor investment performance, and review and revise investment plans based on changes in the market
arrange to buy and sell stocks and bonds for clients
advise on investment strategies, sources of funds and distribution of earnings
set financial objectives, and develop and implement strategies to achieve them
assist clients in meeting superannuation compliance requirements
direct the collection of financial, accounting and investment information and the preparation of budgets, reports, forecasts and statutory returns

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

good communication skills
able to work under pressure
aptitude for research
good with numbers
analytical and planning skills
interested in the financial market

Very Good Outlook for this career!

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Stockbroker - buys and sells stocks and bonds on behalf of clients.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a financial planner you usually have to complete a VOC qualification in financial planning or financial services. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a financial planner by completing a degree in finance, financial planning or financial services at university. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English and mathematics are normally required.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact Open Universities Australia or the institutions you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Depending on the specific role, you may need to be licensed or registered in order to work in this field. Any person who provides advice about financial products to retail clients must satisfy the requirements contained in the Regulatory Guide 146 (RG 146) administered by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Details can be found on the ASIC website. Before enrolling into a financial planning course, you should contact the institution to ensure it complies with ASIC's training regulations.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Entry to this career is competitive. Firms usually recruit applicants who can demonstrate a strong academic background. It takes some time to gain the experience required for advancement, and many firms demand specialised qualifications or relevant experience.

Financial planners work in financial planning organisations, banks, building societies and other organisations within the finance and investment sector.

People in this occupation have a legal obligation to provide sound advice, which means that the job has considerable responsibility attached to it.