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How to Become A Financial Planner

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What is a Financial Planner

Financial Planners help people take charge of their money and build real wealth. They work with clients to set goals, check finances and create a clear plan. It is a career that makes a real difference in people’s lives.

The work covers a wide range of areas. Planners advise on investing, super, insurance and retirement. They also help with tax plans and estate planning. No two clients are the same, so every day brings fresh challenges.

To get started, you need an approved bachelor’s degree from an ASIC-recognised provider. You then finish a professional year and pass a national exam. Once registered with ASIC, you can start advising clients under an AFS licensee.

Pay is strong at every level. Entry-level roles start around $75,000 a year. Experienced planners can earn well above $130,000. The career rewards both technical skill and the ability to build trust with clients.

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Career Outlook for Financial Planner

Financial planning is a stable, well-paid career with steady demand across Australia. Most planners work full-time, averaging around 40 to 44 hours per week. The median age for this occupation is around 45 (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). This reflects a career that rewards experience and a growing client book.

Most roles are permanent, and the unemployment rate is low. Job growth is expected to be moderate over the next five years (yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). An ageing population and growing super balances are driving demand for trusted financial advice.

Starting as a paraplanner or junior adviser is a common entry path. Most move into full advice roles within two to three years. With a strong client base, senior planners earn well above average. The average salary is $125,000 to $140,000 per year (SEEK, 2026).

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

How to Become a Financial Planner in Australia

Step 1: Complete an Approved Bachelor’s Degree

You must hold an approved bachelor’s degree (AQF 7 or higher) in financial planning, finance, accounting, economics or commerce. The degree must be on the Treasury-approved list at fas.treasury.gov.au. Common choices include a Bachelor of Financial Planning or a Bachelor of Commerce with a financial planning major. Full-time study takes 3 to 4 years at a university. Many universities offer part-time or online study options.

Step 2: Complete a Professional Year

After your degree, complete a Professional Year of at least 2,000 hours. At least 1,500 of those hours must involve direct client work. You also complete 100 hours of structured training. This takes around 12 months. You must work under an AFS licensee the whole time.

Step 3: Pass the ASIC Financial Adviser Exam

You must pass the national adviser exam set by ASIC. The exam runs for 3.5 hours and covers advice rules, the Corporations Act, tax law and ethics. You can sit the exam before or during your Professional Year. Check the ASIC website for exam dates and current requirements.

Step 4: Register on the Financial Advisers Register

Once you meet all requirements, your AFS licensee adds you to ASIC’s Financial Advisers Register. You must be on this list before you can give personal advice to retail clients. Stay registered by completing continuing professional development (CPD) each year.

Step 5: Pursue the CFP Designation

The Certified Financial Planner (CFP) title is the most recognised credential in Australia. It is offered by the Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA). To qualify, you need extra study, on-the-job work and an ethics commitment. Most planners aim for this within 2 to 3 years of registration. It can lead to senior roles and higher pay.

What does a Financial Planner do?

Financial Planners have busy, varied days. They start by meeting clients to check finances and update goals. Then they look at investment options, model different plans and prepare advice. During the day, they also track markets, update records and reply to client questions. Many planners work closely with accountants, lawyers and insurance experts. At its heart, this job is about building lasting trust and helping clients move forward with confidence.

Tasks

Financial Planners guide individuals and businesses toward their money goals. They mix number skills with strong talking skills to give clear, practical advice. Every client is different, which keeps the work fresh and engaging.

  • Client Consultation – Meet clients to talk through their goals, finances and concerns.
  • Financial Analysis – Review income, expenses and portfolios to get the full picture.
  • Investment Planning – Suggest investment plans based on the client’s goals and risk level.
  • Retirement Planning – Build retirement savings and super plans tailored to each client.
  • Tax Planning – Advise on tax-smart ways to invest and structure income.
  • Estate Planning – Help clients plan wealth transfers, including wills and beneficiary details.
  • Ongoing Monitoring – Review and adjust financial plans as markets and life change.
  • Market Research – Keep up with financial markets, rule changes and economic trends.
  • Client Education – Help clients understand investment options and key financial ideas.
  • Networking – Build ties with accountants, lawyers and other finance experts.

Skills for Success

Financial Planners need both number skills and people skills. You will look at data, model investment plans and check work against ASIC rules. But you will also spend a lot of time talking to clients and building trust.

Technical know-how matters: investing, tax, super, insurance and estate planning are all part of the job. Planners must keep up with ASIC rules and market changes. Good planners listen well, explain clearly and handle tricky talks with care. If you are organised and love helping people, this career could be a great fit.

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

Average Salaries

Financial Planners in Australia earn an average of $125,000 to $140,000 per year (source: SEEK, June 2026). Entry-level roles start around $75,000 per year. Senior planners with a strong client book can earn above $180,000 per year. Pay rises with experience, qualifications and the size of your client base.

min $75 K

max $180 K

av $130 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
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.