Steps to Become a Financial Dealer
Step 1: Complete a Bachelor of Commerce, Finance, or Economics
Complete a bachelor degree in commerce, finance, economics, or actuarial science at an Australian university. Full-time study takes three years. These degrees cover financial markets, investment theory, accounting, and economic analysis. Around 72% of current Financial Dealers hold a bachelor degree or higher (ABS Census, 2021). This makes a degree the standard entry path into the role.
Step 2: Apply for a Graduate Role or Internship in Financial Markets
Apply for graduate roles or internships at banks, broking firms, or investment houses. Most firms run structured graduate programmes lasting 12 to 24 months. This hands-on experience covers trading, client work, and compliance. Sydney and Melbourne are the main employment hubs. NSW accounts for over 51% of all Financial Dealer jobs in Australia (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025).
Step 3: Get Authorised Under an Australian Financial Services (AFS) Licence
Make sure you are authorised to deal in financial products before you advise or trade for clients. Anyone who deals in financial products must hold or work under an AFS licence. ASIC issues these licences under the Corporations Act 2001. As an employee, you will usually be an authorised representative under your firm’s licence. Review the current requirements on the ASIC website (asic.gov.au).
Step 4: Complete the AFMA Financial Markets Accreditation Programme
Sit the AFMA Financial Markets Accreditation exam to show your knowledge of the field. The Australian Financial Markets Association (AFMA) runs this industry-recognised programme. It covers market rules, conventions, and professional conduct standards. Preparation typically takes three to six months alongside full-time work. AFMA Accreditation signals to employers that you meet national standards.
Step 5: Register with the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)
Register with the ASX if your role involves trading on Australian exchange-traded markets. Dealers who work on the exchange need specific participant or market access approval. The process covers background checks, competency assessment, and formal approval. Check the current conditions on the ASX website (asx.com.au). Requirements vary by role and the products you deal in.
Step 6: Pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Credential
Consider the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) credential to advance your career. The CFA Program has three exam levels and typically takes two to four years to finish. It is issued by the CFA Institute and is the top global award in investment analysis. CFA Societies Australia supports local candidates and members. The credential is highly valued for senior dealer and portfolio management roles.
A Financial Dealer’s day starts with scanning the markets for conditions and signals. They gather data on securities, rules, and client situations. Then they analyse that data fast to spot the best opportunities. When the time is right, they place buy or sell orders. Clients get quick updates on trade details, prices, and contract numbers. They also track futures prices, bid on commodity contracts, and log each transaction with care. It is a role that rewards sharp thinking and steady nerves.
Financial Dealers work at the heart of Australia’s financial markets. They handle trades, track market moves, and keep clients informed every step of the way. The role is diverse, demanding, and genuinely exciting for anyone who loves finance.
- Gathering data on securities, market conditions, government rules, and client finances
- Reading data from securities reports, financial news, and trading screens
- Analysing financial markets and products to spot trends and opportunities
- Advising clients on market conditions, financial tools, and company prospects
- Executing buy and sell orders in the market on behalf of clients
- Relaying trade details to clients, including number of contracts, type, and price
- Monitoring futures prices and market changes, and bidding on commodity futures contracts
- Recording and transmitting buy and sell orders with accuracy
- Calculating and recording the costs of each transaction
Financial Dealers need a mix of sharp thinking and people skills. They must read market data fast, spot patterns, and make quick decisions under pressure. Technical skill and clear talk both count in this role.
Communication matters throughout the job. Dealers explain complex trades in plain terms to clients. They also need to understand financial rules and stay current as they change. Adaptability, integrity, and a drive to keep learning all help dealers build a strong career in this field.
