More than 160 students from universities and TAFEs across Australia took part in the national event, which recognises the best emerging financial planning talent and promotes advice as an attractive and meaningful career path.
Established in 2010 by AMP, the challenge puts students through their paces across both technical and client-focused skills. Participants are required to prepare and present a statement of advice, as well as deliver a presentation on the value of life insurance — a task designed to test not only their knowledge but also their ability to communicate complex concepts clearly.
An independent judging panel featuring Link Wealth Group’s Steve Sloane, Striver’s Alisdair Barr, AMP’s Lisa Sorgini and the Financial Advice Association of Australia’s Phil Anderson selected Adele Wraith as this year’s winner.
Deakin University’s Ryan Pfitzner, Kirstie Suleman and Aislin Jones placed second, while fellow Deakin student Michael Woods secured third place. RMIT’s Martin Sta Romana and TAFE NSW’s Hendra Kosasih also reached the finals.
Wraith, who works as member manager at Pursue Wealth and serves on the FAAA Emerging Professionals Committee, said the competition provided a rare opportunity to apply her studies in a real-world setting.
“This event gave me a chance to put theory into practice and tackle real-world scenarios,” she said. “It’s not just about getting the technical side right – it’s about understanding people, their goals and what advice can help them achieve.”
She added that connecting with peers and industry leaders was another highlight.
“I’m passionate about making financial advice more accessible, particularly for young people,” she said.
“Building confidence and literacy around money early on can really change lives.”
Entireti chief executive Neil Younger said the University Challenge plays an important role in fostering future advisers at a time when the industry continues to face an adviser shortage.
“To improve access to quality advice and close the advice gap, the profession needs to attract and retain more new entrants,” Younger said.
“That starts by engaging directly with schools and universities to show that financial planning is a fulfilling and impactful career.”
Younger said Entireti’s broader strategy includes supporting advice businesses across its network – including Akumin, Fortnum Private Wealth, Personal Financial Services and Entireti Alliances – to recruit and mentor emerging professionals.
Wraith, who will graduate from RMIT later this year, plans to begin her professional year within the next 12 to 18 months.
“Eventually, I’d love to become a partner at a firm that shares my values – or maybe even start my own financial planning business one day,” she said.
