FAAA Expands Specialisation Program to Elevate Financial Advice Standards

The Financial Advice Association of Australia (FAAA) is expanding its approved specialisations program, which currently includes areas such as aged care, life risk, and the Fellow Chartered Financial Practitioner (FChFP).

The organisation is now seeking applications from education and designation providers to broaden the program's scope.

New areas of interest include estate planning, retirement, money therapy, self-managed superannuation funds (SMSF), and responsible investing, though additional relevant specialisations are also welcome.

This initiative is driven by rising consumer demand for advisors with expert knowledge in specific financial sectors, according to Anne Palmer, FAAA's general manager of education. "We want to support advisers in their ongoing learning and development and help them stay in the profession they’ve worked hard to be part of," Palmer explained. She highlighted that many licensees require advisors to pursue further education to specialise in fields like aged care or SMSF.

FAAA-endorsed specialisations ensure that the educational content meets a high standard and that advisers continue professional development, with a minimum of five hours annually dedicated to staying current in their specialty. Palmer noted that expanding the program would help advisors "distinguish themselves professionally" and collaborate with top-tier educational providers to "raise the standard of advice across the industry."

The initiative aims to make the pathway to high-quality specialist education clearer and more rewarding for advisors, ultimately benefiting consumers seeking expert financial advice. This effort to certify and elevate specialised knowledge both recognises and promotes the value of continuous professional development in the financial advice sector.

As the program broadens, the focus will be on ensuring that financial advisors receive the necessary support to stay informed and proficient in their respective areas. This commitment to education and excellence signals a positive shift in the industry towards enhanced professionalism and client trust.

Published:Monday, 11th Aug 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Finance News

Pressures Mount as Australian Wage Growth Slows

28 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

Australian real wages have hit a challenging plateau, currently trailing 6.1% below their mid-2022 'covid-bubble' heights. The Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) recent Statement of Monetary Policy provides little solace, projecting that real wages will stay 5.5% beneath their peak by the close of 2027. This comes amidst SEEK's latest advertised salaries index, which paints a picture of slowing wage growth. - read more

Unexpected Inflation Surge Puts RBA Rate Cut on Hold

28 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

The latest inflation figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics have disrupted expectations for a rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) in September. July's monthly CPI inflation escalated to an annual rate of 2.8%, rising significantly from June's 1.9% and outstripping forecasts from multiple market analysts. This unexpected inflationary surge is mainly attributed to a dramatic 13.0% hike in electricity prices and robust travel costs. - read more

Home Loan Scheme Could Drive Up Prices, Warns Insurance Body

27 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

A new federal scheme, designed to lower the demand for lenders’ mortgage insurance (LMI), may inadvertently escalate home prices and hinder lower-income earners' ability to purchase property, according to concerns raised by Australian insurers. The Home Guarantee Scheme, set to expand in October, offers first-time buyers the opportunity to bypass the usually required LMI if they have managed a deposit of just 5%. - read more

Labor Speeds Up Mortgage Guarantee Extension

26 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian federal government has announced an earlier implementation of its expanded program guaranteeing low-deposit loans for first-time home buyers, set for October. This program aims to eliminate the need for lenders' mortgage insurance (LMI) by allowing first-home purchasers with just a 5% deposit to enter the market. Previously planned for next year, the revamped policy also removes income caps and raises property price limits. - read more

Australian Household Spending Set to Surge with Rate and Tax Relief

25 Aug 2025: Paige Estritori

A significant financial shift is on the horizon for Australian households. After years of stringent budgeting, new data suggests a revitalisation in household spending, thanks to recent interest rate cuts and tax relief measures introduced last July. - read more

Truck Loans Articles

The Ultimate Guide to Truck Loan Terms for Commercial Vehicles

Getting a truck loan is a significant financial commitment, especially for commercial vehicles. Understanding the terms of your truck loan is crucial for managing your finances effectively and ensuring that you can meet your repayment obligations. - read more

Pre-Approval: Why It Matters and How to Get It for Your Truck Loan

When you're eyeing that perfect truck to support your business or lifestyle, understanding the ins and outs of financing can save you time and effort. One crucial step in the truck financing journey is securing a pre-approval. But what exactly does pre-approval mean? - read more

Truck Financing 101: How to Choose the Right Loan for Your Commercial Vehicle

With the bustling economy and expanding trade routes, Australia's commercial vehicle market is experiencing significant growth. Truck financing has become a cornerstone for businesses looking to capitalize on this boom, providing a conduit for fleet expansion and upgrades. Understanding the nuances of commercial vehicle financing options, regulations, and market trends is essential in making informed decisions for the betterment of your business. - read more

Avoiding the Potholes: How to Select the Right Truck Loan for Your Fleet

Selecting the right financing for your fleet can be as crucial to your business's success as the trucks themselves. The journey for the perfect truck loan is fraught with potential pitfalls that can impede your business growth and financial stability. In this introductory section, we will delve into the significance of making informed choices when it comes to truck loans and how they impact your operations. - read more

How to Create a Safety-First Culture in Your Trucking Business

Creating a safety-first culture in the trucking industry goes beyond merely following regulations. It means prioritizing the well-being of drivers, the integrity of the cargo, and the security of the fleet. In this context, a safety-first mindset influences daily operations, decision-making, and long-term strategies. It's about cultivating a work environment where safety is an integral part of every action and thought. - read more

Start Here

Get a free truck loan eligibility assessment and compare truck finance and leasing options without accessing your credit file!!

Knowledgebase

Revolving Credit:
A type of credit that does not have a fixed number of payments, in contrast to installment credit.