In a statement, the Suncorp-owned insurer said the ‘Sophisticated Adviser Program’ is based on the Financial Advice Competency Framework developed by Asteron Life in conjunction with Kaplan, the Beddoes Institution, and the AFA last year.
Asteron head of life and wealth intermediaries Daniel Waller said the program has been designed to help advisers meet changing industry needs, and give advisers a qualification assessment conducted by Kaplan “to determine if there are any gaps they need to consider” before the new education standards are announced.
“By supporting a more rounded approach to education we will have advisers that are technically capable, can engage with clients on a personal level and will also have the skills to run a business,” he said.
“We have developed a calendar of face-to-face and web-based training programs on soft skills, practice management and technical skills.”
Additionally, Asteron said it will then assist advisers to enroll in “the relevant prescribed courses” they will need to undertake, and offer “preferential pricing for a range of Kaplan subjects”.
“The Sophisticated Adviser is designed for all financial advisers, whether they are just starting out or have decades of experience. It will enhance and broaden advisers’ skills and competencies which will benefit not only their clients but also their business and the industry,” Mr Waller said.
