Every financial planner we feature must be properly licensed and registered with the ASIC Financial Adviser Register, and meet the national education and ethical standards set by FASEA. To ensure a high level of expertise, we prioritise advisors who hold professional designations such as Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®), or an advanced degree or diploma in Financial Planning. Additional membership in professional associations like the Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA) or the SMSF Association is also a positive indicator of ongoing professional commitment.

We assess how long each advisor has been practicing and their areas of expertise. Whether it’s retirement planning, superannuation, wealth creation, or investment advice, we look for advisors with at least five years of experience and a solid track record of helping Australians achieve their financial goals. Experience alone isn’t enough—planners must also demonstrate a history of ethical conduct and client-focused service

One of the strongest indicators of trust is client feedback. We analyse online reviews from sources such as Google, Adviser Ratings, and LinkedIn, looking for patterns of satisfaction, reliability, and professionalism. Only advisors who consistently receive high ratings (typically 4.5 stars or above) with genuine testimonials are included. We believe a strong reputation in the eyes of real clients speaks volumes about an advisor’s reliability and results.

Where relevant, we consider financial planners who have earned industry recognition, such as inclusion in Barron’s Top 100 Financial Advisers, or awards from leading bodies like the Independent Financial Advisers, Women in Finance, or the FAAA. We also factor in expert commentary or media features in leading publications or podcasts. These accolades highlight advisors who are respected within the financial planning profession.

Trust and transparency are fundamental. We look for financial advisers who clearly communicate their services, fee structure, and process. Planners must act in the best interests of their clients, avoid unnecessary jargon, and provide easy-to-understand advice. Ethical conduct and clear, honest communication are non-negotiable parts of our selection criteria.

Our commitment to quality doesn’t end once a planner is listed. We continually monitor and update our recommendations based on new client feedback, advisor performance, and regulatory compliance. If a financial advisor no longer meets our criteria, they are removed from our listings to maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of our recommendations.