TAL Risk Academy’s Ethics Month returns for third year

An Ethics Month in May will have a series of weekly live webinars focused on practical, real-life case studies to help advisers understand how they can align their practices with the latest ethical standards.

Ethics Month was created by the organisation in 2023 to support advisers in developing their critical thinking, decision making and communication skills.

The format and content of this year’s program have been shaped by adviser feedback and include real-world scenarios.

These will include resolving ethical dilemmas, interpreting provisions and determinations by the Financial Services and Credit Panel (FSCP), balancing best interest obligations, and applying long-term thinking under Standard 6 of the Code of Ethics.

Week 1 – Ethical Dilemmas: Embracing Imperfection

Week 2 – FSCP Provisions and Determinations

Week 3 – Navigating Best Interest and Appropriateness

Week 4 – Standard 6: Guide Me Over the Long Term

Advisers can earn up to four CPD hours in professionalism and ethics from the webinars, which will be held every Wednesday in May from 11am to 12pm AEST.

“As we mark 10 years of TAL Risk Academy and the return of Ethics Month, we recognise the crucial role advisers play in helping Australians secure their financial futures. Our focus is on supporting these advisers by providing the training, tools and resources they need to succeed and grow the industry,” said Gavin Teichner, chief executive for individual life at TAL.

“We believe that strengthening the profession starts with empowering advisers to offer the best and most responsible advice to their clients. We will continue to be part of their journey and remain dedicated to fostering a future where quality advice continues to make a positive difference to the lives of more Australians.”

Advisers previously shared that it is difficult to obtain the required CPD hours in this skill set as there is a limited pool of content available. The nine hours of ethics requirement compares to five hours required in each of technical competence, client care and practice, and regulatory compliance and consumer protection.

TAL national sales development manager Jason Bamford added that the insurer views Ethics Month as an “important part of our commitment to supporting advisers, ensuring they are equipped to meet the highest standards of professionalism”.

“As the financial services landscape continues to evolve, adhering to a strong ethical framework is more critical than ever, helping advisers keep their clients’ best interests front and centre, maintain industry trust, and uphold professional integrity," Bamford said.

"TAL Risk Academy’s Ethics Month is designed to equip advisers with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate these challenges with confidence.”