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How to Become a Financial Planner: Australian Careers in Financial Planning

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What is a Financial Planner?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Financial Planner?

A Financial Planner helps clients set and reach their money goals. They review income, savings, investing and debts to build a clear plan. This career suits people who enjoy numbers and helping others.

Each day, Financial Planners meet clients to check their finances. They suggest products such as super, insurance and investments. They make sure each plan still fits the client’s goals and life stage. Good talking skills matter just as much as technical know-how.

Key tasks include writing financial plans, watching portfolios and keeping up with tax law. Financial Planners must hold an approved degree and register with ASIC. Most work under an AFS licensee.

This career offers strong pay and steady demand. With experience, planners can focus on retirement, estate or investment work. Many find it rewarding to see clients build real financial security.

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Career snapshots For Financial Planners

Financial Planning is a stable, well-paid career with steady demand across Australia. Around 9,900 people work as Financial Investment Advisers (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). About 81% work full-time, with most in permanent roles. The median age is around 45 years (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025).

Average yearly pay sits at $125,000 to $140,000 (SEEK, June 2026). Entry-level roles start at around $75,000 per year. Senior planners can earn above $180,000. Future demand is rated as moderate, driven by an ageing population and growing need for personal financial advice.

Most Financial Planners work for banks, insurers or advice firms. Many also run their own practices. The role is regulated by ASIC. All planners must hold an approved degree and be listed on the Financial Advisers Register.

What will I do?

Financial Planners help clients and businesses manage money and build security. They gather facts, look at options and suggest plans that suit each client’s goals. The work mixes financial know-how with strong client service.

  • Client Consultation – Meet clients to learn about their goals and current finances.
  • Financial Analysis – Review income, expenses, assets and debts to get a clear picture.
  • Investment Planning – Suggest investment plans matched to the client’s risk level.
  • Retirement Planning – Build super and savings plans for a secure retirement.
  • Tax Planning – Find tax-smart ways to structure investments and income.
  • Portfolio Management – Watch and adjust client investment portfolios over time.
  • Estate Planning – Help clients plan how to pass wealth to the next generation.
  • Compliance and Records – Make sure all advice meets ASIC rules and keep records up to date.
  • Ongoing Reviews – Check in with clients often to update plans as life changes.
  • Networking – Build ties with other experts such as accountants and lawyers.

What skills do I need?

Financial Planners need a mix of technical and people skills. They look at financial data, model plans and explain complex ideas in plain terms. Clients must feel sure about their planner’s advice and judgement.

On the technical side, planners need a solid grasp of investing, tax, super and ASIC rules. They use financial planning software and keep up with market shifts. Strong listening, clear talking and the ability to build trust are just as important. Attention to detail matters in every plan they produce.

Skills/attributes

  • Analytical thinking and financial modelling
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Client relationship management
  • Knowledge of investments, super and insurance
  • Understanding of tax law and ASIC rules
  • Ability to build tailored financial plans
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving ability
  • Time management and organisation
  • Ethical judgement and integrity
  • Proficiency in financial planning software
  • Commitment to ongoing learning and CPD
  • Ability to explain complex ideas in plain language

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.