The program, delivered in partnership with careers platform Striver, aims to help employees transition into advice-related roles while remaining in their current jobs.
The first intake, launched in September 2024, involved six employees who have now completed the program. The latest intake includes 11 participants drawn from across the business, reflecting steady interest from staff seeking structured entry points into the profession.
“There is an enormous unmet advice need in Australia,” said BT’s head of strategy and governance, Michael Lowndes, who sponsors the initiative.
The program offers formal study opportunities, BT Academy CPD webinars, access to industry events and mentoring support.
It comes at a time when adviser numbers have fallen markedly over the past five years, reducing Australians’ access to professional guidance on financial matters.
Client account specialist Linda Cummins, a participant in the new intake, said the combination of study and work appealed to her.
“The pitch was simple: keep your job, study at your own pace, gain an industry-recognised qualification, and open the door to a career in financial advice.”
For Cummins, the experience has been both personal and professional.
“Beforehand, I was capable in my role but unsure about my future in the industry. Now I feel like I can actually study, qualify, and open up more career possibilities.”
She said the program has given her a clearer view of potential progression.
Perth-based case manager Edgar Palmeira said the program had already improved his understanding of advisers’ day-to-day work.
“I work closely with many financial advisers, and thanks to this program, I now understand their world so much more — I can speak their language,” he said.
BT said the initiative is designed to align with evolving regulatory settings, including potential changes to education requirements and the introduction of a “new class of adviser.”
The curriculum covers ethics, regulatory obligations, consumer behaviour and the advice process, positioned to adapt as standards develop.
Lowndes said creating pathways for internal talent supports BT’s longer-term strategy as well as the broader advice ecosystem.
“Whether participants continue to grow their careers at BT or take their skills to the broader industry, the benefits are shared,” he said.
Striver founder and CEO Alisdair Barr described the partnership as an important step toward rebuilding the advisory workforce.
“There’s a significant opportunity to strengthen and support the growth of the profession as demand for advice continues to rise,” Barr said.
Barr added that concerns that staff may leave after upskilling are often overstated.
“Yes, some may leave, but the reverse is more likely: higher engagement, longer tenure, and a more diverse cross-section of talent.”
