The Compensation Scheme of Last Resort getting more wide-ranging focus was a key development for advice last year, while both clients and advisers need to be mindful of burnout in 2026.
2025 wrap-up
What was the most significant thing (good or bad) to come out of this year?
The most significant thing to come out of this year has been an agreement that while the CSLR was a good idea in principle, it has the potential to reduce adviser numbers further. The spotlight on the CSLR is welcome as it needs to be fit for purpose and can’t rely on advisers as the first line of defence for all the ills of all the financial players.
How has the profession grown over the year?
We’ve continued to connect, grow and support. I don’t see competition in this profession, only collaboration.
What was the biggest achievement for the profession this year?
Getting through the year! It’s been a wild one for sure so I’m proud of us all for getting to the end intact!
What shocked you this year?
How many professional year candidates are getting burnt out, feeling like they’re being used by their employers.
How do you wind up business for the year?
I wind up 2025 with gratitude to be in the right place, helping the right people. It’s an honour to be supporting everyday Australians to get their insurance in place – something that most find boring and onerous, but I find incredibly fulfilling and important.
My business is winding up in a very casual way, with a few drinks, some takeaway and a few chats.
What was the biggest achievement this year?
My biggest achievements were two-fold.
Supporting clients with a few mental health income protection claims, meaning they had/still have time to rest and recover.
Achieving two awards! Financial Adviser of the Year and Financial Adviser of the Year – Risk – wow! It was rather unexpected but I am so proud of me and my team, as winning awards is never a solo effort.
2026 look ahead
What are you hoping to come out of next year?
I’m hopeful for growth, more connection and a holiday.
How are you feeling about the year to come and why?
I am excited about 2026 – I’m very much still in growth phase and I love helping others so it’s going to be a big year for me. I love meeting new people, learning about my new clients and, whilst sad, I love being there for clients when they need to claim on their insurances to make the process as smooth as possible.
What do you think needs to be a top priority for 2026?
Sensible reform needs to be the top priority – we need licensees to cut the red tape, embrace technology and not be so prescriptive so advisers can do their best work and not be held down by compliance. I’m thankful my licensee is sensible and no-nonsense, I’ve noticed it changes my work life positively.
What is your main goal as an adviser for the coming year?
Connect with more aligned advisers who don’t like or don’t want to do insurance anymore and take that burden off them. Making sure their clients are looked after for their insurances and helping the adviser ensure their clients are fully protected so the financial plan can continue no matter what.
Where do you see the advice profession heading in 2026?
I see it heading into more niching, more values-based work, and more technological innovation supporting us to help more Australians in the same amount of time. I also see advisers and their staff prioritising their own mental and physical health so they don’t burn out or worse.
