Financial advice

Financial counselling

If you’re experiencing financial difficulties, or if you cannot get access to credit, free financial counselling is available through selected government and community organisations.

Look for a financial counsellor near you.

Financial advisers

Financial planning with a qualified adviser helps you achieve your financial goals. The earlier you develop a plan the more likely you are to create the type of lifestyle you want in retirement.

How to find a good financial adviser

• Ask your friends and family if they have a financial planner they are happy with.
• Do some online research.
• Look for a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)—this means they have the highest level of certification (recognised internationally).
• Check if they’re a member of a trusted and respected industry body such as the Financial Planning Association (FPA).

A list of financial counselling services is available from the Financial Counsellors' Association of Queensland.

Before you meet with a financial adviser

To get the most out of your meeting with your financial adviser it’s important to be prepared. Here are some things you might like to consider before your meeting:

• details of any income your receive
• a list of your assets
• details of any debt
• financial dependants
• think about what you want to do with your money and the sort of risks you are prepared to take.

What to expect

A good financial adviser should be able to:

• assess your relevant financial history, examine your debts and review your net worth
• discuss and prepare a financial plan based on your personal and financial goals, history and preferences
• identify areas where you may need help
• review your financial situation periodically and suggest changes in your financial program when needed.

Are you being taken advantage of financially?

Financial exploitation can include:

• the illegal or improper use, or misappropriation of your property or finances
• forced changes to your will or other legal documents
• denying you the right to access and control your personal funds
• unfair or fraudulent practices relating to a retirement village, aged rental accommodation or residential park.

Don’t feel embarrassed or afraid to speak to someone if you feel as though someone is taking advantage of you. There is support available.

If you’re concerned about abuse, mistreatment or financial exploitation Seniors Legal and Support Services (SLASS) can provide free legal and support services for you.

You can get help through centre-based appointments, phone support, home-visits or at other safe locations.

Helpful resources

• Retirement planning checklist
• Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA)
• Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC)
• Australian Tax Office
• Centrelink
• Financial Planning Association
• Legal Aid Queensland
• Wills and power of attorney