We are a proud member of the Financial Services Online network!
Connect with us on your favourite social media platform for the latest financial news, views, tips, tricks, resources and information.
Kaplan Professional, a leading provider of finance education, is playing a crucial role in this transition. Brian Knight, the CEO of Kaplan Professional, highlighted the importance of their institution in accommodating the growing number of aspirants seeking postgraduate qualifications. “We will carry the bulk of responsibility in fulfilling the education needs of Australia’s advisers before the deadline,” Knight stated.
Currently, Kaplan has around 2,500 students enrolled across six study periods, with additional enrollments expected as the deadline nears. In a remarkable surge, a course set to begin in December is seeing enrollment numbers soar to approximately 1,600 participants, while another course starting on January 13 boasts 500 students, which is an unprecedented fivefold increase compared to typical figures.
Knight noted, “Enrolments have steadily increased throughout 2023, and each study period has seen higher participation than its predecessor.” The imminent consequences that advisers face for failing to meet qualification standards are severe, driving many to prioritize their education efforts. “Our team is fully committed to assisting these students through this critical period,” he added.
To aid advisers in complying with the new regulations, Kaplan offers a variety of courses, including Masters, Graduate Diplomas, and Graduate Certificates in Financial Planning, as well as bridging courses approved by the Financial Advisor Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) successor.
Over the past five years, the financial education landscape has transformed, with around 12,000 advisers successfully obtaining higher educational qualifications, marking a significant achievement within the industry.
Feedback from academics like Ron McIver from South Australia highlights shifts in enrollment patterns following the introduction of the ten-year experienced adviser pathway in 2023. This pathway has provided advisors with extensive professional experience, a way to remain in practice without needing additional qualifications. McIver explained, “While the enforcement of education standards was initially expected to boost demand for postgraduate courses temporarily, it appears the impact has been more nuanced.”
McIver’s analysis suggests that the implementation of the experience pathway significantly lessened the urgency for current advisers to pursue further education. He elaborated, “The reduction in demand stems largely from changes made regarding the pathways available to experienced advisers, coupled with new visa regulations affecting international recruitment.”
The regulatory environment remains in flux, with ongoing reviews from the Treasury and Ministerial offices regarding the necessary curriculum and access pathways to financial planning programs. “We’re seeing a more discerning approach to evaluating these programs, leading some institutions to contemplate discontinuing their offerings,” McIver cautioned.
Despite these challenges, McIver remains optimistic that the inherent value of a financial planning career will inspire future students: “The potential to serve the community and improve financial wellbeing for Australians must maintain a base level of interest in both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.”
Overall, as the advisory landscape shifts towards higher educational standards, the commitment from both educators and students highlights the industry’s dedication to professional excellence. (Source: Professional Planner)
Published:Tuesday, 14th Jan 2025
Source: Paige Estritori
| Thousands of Australians Turning to Debt Help Services Amid Financial Crisis 17 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori A significant increase in the number of Australians reaching out for debt assistance is reshaping the financial landscape of the country. As the cost of living surges and interest rates climb, many individuals are finding it increasingly challenging to manage their finances. - read more |
| Consumer Confidence Takes a Hit Amid Economic Uncertainty 15 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori In a recent shift, consumer sentiment has experienced a noticeable decline as January brings a wave of pessimism about the economy. This change in mood among consumers could signal challenges ahead for various sectors, particularly in retail and discretionary spending. - read more |
| ASIC Unveils Updated Guidance to Strengthen Financial Advice Standards 14 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has rolled out a fresh set of guidelines aimed at enhancing the quality of financial advice in the wake of significant legislative reforms. This move aligns with the recently enacted Treasury Laws Amendments (Delivering Better Financial Outcomes and Other Measures) Act 2024, which is designed to foster better financial outcomes for consumers. - read more |
| Adviser Qualifications Surge as 2026 Deadline Approaches 14 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori With the looming 2026 deadline for financial advisers to upgrade their qualifications, nearly 3,000 existing advisers in Australia are ramping up efforts to meet educational requirements. The industry is seeing a significant influx of postgraduate students aiming to secure their credentials by January 1st, 2026. - read more |
| Australian Dollar Decline: Economic Impacts and Opportunities 13 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian dollar has faced significant depreciation recently, sinking to its lowest level in nearly five years. This decline raises important questions about its implications not only for the economy but also for consumers and businesses alike. - read more |
| 8 Tips to Get the Best Deal on Your New Caravan If you’re thinking about buying a new caravan, then the chances are you’re excited about all the adventures you’re going to have with your family in tow. You’re also probably itching to start planning some great getaways, and of course, you want to get the best deal you can on the caravan itself. Perhaps these tips help you on the journey. - read more
|
| Caravan Dreams: How to Find Affordable Loan Rates for Your Next Adventure Australia's love affair with the open road is a well-documented part of the national psyche; caravaning is more than just a means of travel—it's a lifestyle choice embraced by many. The lure of vast landscapes and the freedom to explore at your own pace has made owning a caravan a treasured goal for adventurers across the country. - read more
|
| Steps to Getting Approved for Caravan Finance Understanding caravan finance is crucial whether you're planning an epic road trip or seeking an affordable way to own a mobile holiday home. Caravan finance allows you to spread the cost of your purchase over a period, making it easier to manage financially. - read more
|
| Choosing the Perfect Caravan: A Comprehensive Checklist Planning a caravan trip can be an exciting and fun experience for families or individuals, but choosing the right caravan is crucial to ensuring that the trip is as enjoyable as possible. There are numerous types, models, and sizes of caravans available, and this can be overwhelming for many people. That's why this article has been created. It aims to provide a comprehensive checklist and valuable advice to help you choose the perfect caravan that suits your needs and preferences. - read more
|
| Top Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Caravan Loan in Australia Embarking on the journey of owning a caravan in Australia is the gateway to freedom and adventure. With picturesque landscapes and vast wilderness, the allure of exploring the country on your own terms is enticing. A caravan offers the perfect blend of comfort and mobility, allowing you to create lifelong memories as you travel. - read more
|
|
The Ultimate Checklist for Caravan Loan Approval in Australia Australia is synonymous with sprawling landscapes and the spirit of adventure. With such an irresistible call to explore the great outdoors, it's no surprise that the popularity of caravanning has surged amongst wanderlust-filled Aussies. The freedom to hit the open road with the comforts of home tagging along in a caravan is an unmatched experience. - read more
|
|
The Ultimate Guide to Affordable Caravan Financing for Aussie Adventurers Imagine the vast, sun-kissed horizons of the Australian outback, the rugged coastlines teeming with life, and the dense, verdant rainforests that whisper tales from a time long past. For many Aussie adventurers, the call of the wild is nearly impossible to resist. A caravan offers the promise of freedom, adventure, and the comforts of home while on the road exploring the natural wonders of the land down under. - read more
|
|
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Financing a Caravan Financing a caravan is a significant financial decision that can greatly impact your future. Understanding the process and taking the right steps can make a substantial difference in achieving a successful outcome. Many Australian consumers make common mistakes when seeking caravan finance, which can lead to higher costs and unnecessary stress. - read more
|
|
From Pre-Approval to Purchase: Your Roadmap to Caravan Finance Imagine the open road before you, the comfort of your home on wheels behind you, and the promise of adventure at each destination. Owning a caravan offers unparalleled freedom and joy, allowing you to explore the countryside and make memories that last a lifetime. However, the path to purchasing the caravan of your dreams often begins with navigating the financial aspect of ownership. In this article, we delve into the exciting journey of caravan finance. - read more
|
|
How to Improve Your Credit Score for Better Caravan Loan Rates A credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness. It is calculated based on your credit history, which includes factors like your payment history, the amount of debt you have, and the length of your credit history. - read more
|