FPEC chair Mark Brimble steps down

In a statement, the FPA – which established FPEC as an "independent body" in 2011 though it remains listed as the owner in records held by government body IP Australia – said Mr Brimble has resigned from the post he has held since November 2013 in the wake of FASEA's decision to adopt FPEC's list of approved courses to establish adviser education standards.

FPA chair Neil Kendall thanked Mr Brimble for his service to the council and his "outstanding contribution" to raising professional standards in the advice industry.

“In this volunteer role, Mark has guided the development of a world-leading university curriculum for bachelor degrees in financial planning. The FPA recognises Mark’s commitment and dedication to advancing the profession, and we commend him on his hard work," he said.

"Mark has also been responsible for launching the Financial Planning Research Journal and establishing a research grant to foster academic research in the field of financial planning, which is critical in the evolution of financial planning becoming a recognised profession."

Earlier this year, Mr Brimble's appropriateness for the role came under fire from advisers who were concerned his other roles as a FASEA board member and professor with Griffith University would be a conflict of interest.