Rethinking Financial Advice: The Shift to Episodic Engagement

2

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The 2024 edition of the Australian Financial Advice Report, spearheaded by Investment Trends, uncovers pivotal insights into consumer preferences. Out of the 21 million Australian adults assessed, nearly half-about 10.2 million-express their intent to consult financial advisors. Among them, the demand for episodic, issue-specific advice is on the rise, highlighting the importance of accessible and affordable financial counsel.

Interestingly, 22 percent of individuals (having no immediate plan to engage advisors and seemingly content with their current financial management), coexist with a significant 23 percent who face unresolved financial issues but are similarly not considering advice. In stark contrast, 1.5 million individuals currently receiving financial guidance reveal that more than 85 percent still encounter unmet advisory needs.

The widespread need for assistance spans various financial concerns. An impressive 16.4 million Australians voiced their interests in specific areas such as retirement finances (30 percent), structuring investments (30 percent), navigating tax concerns (27 percent), and home purchase strategies (25 percent).

As determined from the study, Australians value episodic financial advice, predominantly because it bears lower costs compared to comprehensive financial advisory services. Notably, financial guidance regarding inheritance and estate planning, home acquisition, and retirement strategies are top areas Aussies are willing to invest in, occasionally exceeding figures like $1,690, $1,270, and $970 respectively, for direct human advisory.

Olivia Beringer, Research Director at Investment Trends, underscores the shift, explaining: "It is abundantly clear that episodic financial advice-tailored to fit budgets and life circumstances-is what Australians want." She adds that as organizations adapt to this demand through innovative business strategies, the legislative alignment anticipated would further support this framework.

Moreover, Beringer highlights the crucial transition: "Australians are demanding advice that is both affordable and available when they need it. Our data highlights a clear opportunity to inject greater flexibility into the industry, enabling organisations to offer targeted services that directly address consumer needs."

This research further fortifies the concept of personalized financial planning, catering to unique life events instead of ongoing advisory relationships, as the newfound norm in the sector. The original insights and data were derived from the Australian Financial Advice Report presented by Investment Trends, which casts a spotlight on these evolving client paradigms.

Published:Monday, 9th Dec 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

Crusader Caravans and BIG4 Holiday Parks Join Forces to Enhance Caravanning Adventures

07 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant move for the Australian caravanning community, Crusader Caravans has announced a partnership with BIG4 Holiday Parks, aiming to provide new caravan buyers with exclusive benefits that enhance their travel experiences. - read more

MONEYME and Snowy River Caravans Revolutionise Caravan Financing with Instant Approval

07 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

In a groundbreaking development for the Australian caravan industry, digital lender MONEYME has entered into an exclusive 12-month partnership with Snowy River Caravans. This collaboration introduces instant, on-the-spot financing options for customers through MONEYME's secured vehicle loan product, Autopay. - read more

Australian Caravan Industry Confronts Turbulent Times as Manufacturers Face Financial Struggles

07 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian caravan industry is currently navigating a period of significant upheaval, marked by the recent collapse of several manufacturers. Notably, luxury caravan producer Zone RV entered voluntary administration in December 2025, leaving creditors facing debts totaling approximately $40 million. This development has cast a shadow over the sector, raising concerns about the financial stability of caravan manufacturers. - read more

Multiple Caravan Manufacturers Collapse in Australia

30 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian caravan industry is experiencing a period of significant upheaval, with several manufacturers collapsing in recent years. The most recent and notable among these is the luxury caravan manufacturer Zone RV, which entered voluntary administration in December 2025, leaving creditors owed approximately $40 million. - read more

Zone RV Director Under Investigation for Fraud

30 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In the wake of luxury caravan manufacturer Zone RV's collapse, authorities have launched an investigation into fraud allegations against the company's director, David Biggar. The Sunshine Coast-based company entered voluntary administration in December 2025, owing creditors approximately $42 million. - read more

Click for more Finance News