How to Choose the Right Financial Adviser in 2026

Choosing a financial adviser is an important decision. The right advice can provide clarity, confidence and direction for your financial future.

Why choosing the right adviser matters

Financial advice plays a significant role in helping people make informed decisions about their money. Whether you are planning for retirement, reviewing superannuation, managing investments or building long-term wealth, the adviser you choose can shape the outcomes you experience.

With so many advisers and financial services available, knowing how to choose the right one can feel overwhelming. A thoughtful approach can help ensure the advice you receive is relevant, transparent and aligned with your goals.

Start with your financial goals

Before speaking with an adviser, it helps to be clear about what you want to achieve. Financial advice is not one size fits all, and different advisers may specialise in different areas.

Consider whether your priorities include:

Retirement planning

Superannuation or SMSF advice

Wealth creation and investment strategy

Cash flow management

Estate planning or wealth protection

Having clarity around your goals allows you to assess whether an adviser’s experience and approach are suited to your needs.

Check qualifications and licensing

In Australia, financial advisers must meet specific education and licensing requirements to provide personal financial advice. This helps protect consumers and ensures a minimum standard of professionalism.

Before engaging an adviser, take the time to:

Confirm they are appropriately licensed

Understand the scope of advice they are authorised to provide

Check their professional background and experience

Doing this early can give you confidence that you are dealing with a qualified professional.

Understand how advice is delivered

A good adviser should take the time to understand your situation before making recommendations. Financial planning should be personalised, not generic.

During initial conversations, pay attention to:

How well the adviser listens

Whether they explain concepts clearly

If they take the time to understand your personal circumstances

Clear communication and a collaborative approach are essential for a long-term advice relationship.

Ask about fees and transparency

Understanding how an adviser is paid is a critical part of choosing the right financial planner. Fee structures can vary, so it is important to know what you are paying for and how costs are calculated.

You should feel comfortable asking:

What services are included

How fees are structured

Whether fees are fixed, ongoing or transactional

Transparent conversations about fees help build trust and avoid misunderstandings later on.

Take your time and compare options

It is reasonable to meet with more than one adviser before making a decision. Comparing different approaches can help you identify what feels right for you.

Consider whether:

The adviser’s philosophy aligns with your values

You feel comfortable asking questions

The advice process feels clear and structured

Choosing a financial adviser is not just about expertise. It is also about trust and confidence.

Watch for warning signs

While most advisers act professionally, it is important to be aware of potential red flags. These may include:

Pressure to make quick decisions

Lack of clarity around fees or services

Advice that does not appear tailored to your situation

If something does not feel right, it is okay to pause or seek a second opinion.

Financial advice is a long-term partnership

The right financial adviser can become a trusted partner over many years, helping you adapt your strategy as life changes.

Taking the time to choose carefully can lead to better outcomes and greater peace of mind.

Making the next step

Choosing a financial adviser is an important decision, but it does not need to be complicated. Starting with clear goals, asking the right questions and taking a considered approach can make all the difference.

For more information on how Poole Advisory provides personalised financial advice and financial planning, or to discuss whether professional advice is right for you, get in touch today or book an appointment; we are always here to listen and help you.

Compliance Disclaimer:

This information contains general advice only, that is, advice which does not take into account your needs, objectives, or financial situation. You need to consider the appropriateness of that general advice in light of your personal circumstances before acting on the advice. You should obtain and consider the Product Disclosure Statement for any product discussed before making a decision to acquire that product. You should obtain financial or credit advice that addresses your specific needs and situation before making investment or borrowing decisions. Taxation information is based on our interpretation of the relevant laws as at 1 July 2018. While every care has been taken in the preparation of this information, Prosperitas Partners Pty Ltd does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information. The case studies are hypothetical, for illustration purposes only and are not based on actual returns.

Poole Advisory Pty Ltd ABN 15 642 040 604 is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 001282603) of Prosperitas Partners Pty Ltd ABN 30 662 654 453 AFSL 544 917