What to look for when choosing a financial adviser in 2026
Choosing the right adviser is one of the most consequential decisions you’ll make, especially as retirement, superannuation and tax rules change. Independent research shows the quality of advice (and the quality of the adviser) materially lifts client confidence, outcomes and peace of mind.
1) The value of a quality financial adviser
Independent national research finds 93% of advised Australians say they’re better off, 64% report a positive mental‑health impact, and 96% say advice helped them stay confident during volatility. Those gaps versus unadvised peers are widening—trust and long‑term guidance matter. Source: FAA. https://faaa.au/faaa-value-of-advice-index-highlights-stability-for-advised-australians-during-a-turbulent-year/
2) People favour deep technical skill—explained simply
- Concessional & non‑concessional caps (and your total super balance) — planned across years to avoid locking out future options.
- Downsizer — a powerful one‑time, later‑stage lever (up to $300k per person) that doesn’t use your caps but does count toward your total balance; timing it well can preserve other contribution strategies.
- Age windows matter — under 75, funds can generally accept all contribution types (subject to rules); from 67–74, the work‑test rules interact with deductibility; 75+, funds can still accept SG and downsizer only. An adviser should map these windows to your retirement date.
3) Choose human connection, powered by modern delivery
Clients increasingly judge firms by digital experience—mobile‑first communication, secure sharing, clear dashboards—alongside human guidance. Industry reporting notes one in three next‑gen advisers are dissatisfied with in‑firm tech, citing friction that affects service. You benefit when your adviser pairs empathy with efficient tech.
4) Expect proactive clarity as the rules shift
Policy, tax and superannuation rules continue to shift — from retirement‑income reforms to contribution eligibility changes and new tax measures. You want an adviser who stays ahead of regulatory change and translates it into clear, practical next steps for your plan, so your retirement strategy remains compliant and optimised as the rules evolve. Regular ongoing reviews are essential.
5) Insist on a goals‑first plan with clear strategies to achieve them
Evidence shows advised Australians enjoy higher financial confidence and quality of life; the uplift is greatest when advice is personalised and goal‑driven. Look for an adviser who starts with your goals, then maps a strategy to get there—cash‑flow, buffers, investment ‘buckets’ by time‑horizon, contribution sequencing, and retirement‑income design.
Most importantly, you’ll need an adviser you can trust, has your best interests at heart, provides value for money and actively works towards your goals with you.
If you’d like a quick sense‑check on whether an adviser’s process (or your current strategy) fits your goals, please reach out to us.
General Advice Warning: The information in this article and the links has been prepared for general information purposes only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. It is not intended to provide commercial, financial, investment, accounting, tax or legal advice. You should, before you make any decision regarding any information, strategies, or products mentioned in this article, consult a professional financial advisor to consider whether it is suitable and appropriate for you and your personal needs and circumstances. Before making a decision to acquire a financial product, you should obtain and read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) relating to that product, together with the Target Market Determination (TMD).
