The Best Financial Advisors and Planners in Sydney
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Sydney’s median house price of around $1.4–$1.5 million and a cost of living well above the national average make expert personal financial advice especially valuable. Whether you’re planning retirement, managing investments, or navigating complex tax situations, a qualified Sydney-based financial planner can help you make decisions that can significantly impact your long-term wealth and retirement outcomes.
Industry research shows advised Australians report significantly higher financial confidence and stronger retirement outcomes compared to those without advice.
We’ve featured our top 10 recommended financial planners in Sydney. Each adviser is vetted to ensure you can confidently choose from Sydney’s most qualified and reputable financial planners — top-rated professionals who combine experience, integrity, and local insight to help you manage, grow, and protect your financial future.
✓ Minimum 5 years experience (most have 15+ years)
✓ ASIC licensed and verified
✓ Hold CFP® or equivalent advanced qualifications
✓ Verified client reviews
✓ Clean compliance record
✓ Active professional development
All advisers independently verified through ASIC records. Last review: February 2026.
☑ Are within 5-10 years of retirement
☑ Have $300,000+ in super without a clear strategy
☑ Recently received an inheritance or windfall ($100,000+)
☑ Own a business needing succession planning
☑ Earn over $180,000 household income (tax optimization opportunities)
☑ Are navigating divorce or relationship separation
☑ Want to establish an SMSF but aren’t sure if it’s right
☑ Need Age Pension optimization
☑ Are planning for aged care costs
Not sure? Most advisers offer a free initial consultation to assess fit.
| Adviser | Experience | Key Specialisation | Languages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brenton Tong | 21 years | SMSF, FIRE, Tax Strategies | English |
| Cameron Howlett | 25 years | SMSF, Retirement, Independent Advice | English |
| Chris Smith | 26 years | High Net Worth, Family Office | English |
| Andy Darroch | 9 years | Superannuation, Investment, Tax | English |
| Gareth Colgan | 19 years | Aged Care, Estate Planning | English |
| John Hollyman | 25 years | Business Planning, Aged Care, Trust Structures | English |
| Matt Dragovic | 15 years | Goal Setting, Property Strategy | English |
| David Hancock | 15 years | Property Strategy, Holistic Planning | English |
| Ellie Fordham | 16 years | SMSF, Goals-Based Planning, Values-Based Advice | English |
| John Kuo | 23 years | ASX Investments, Family Wealth | English, Mandarin |
BComm, Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning
Brenton’s work centres on education-driven financial planning, delivered through a transparent fee-for-service model. His involvement in adviser mentoring and training reflects a deep commitment to lifting standards, not just serving clients. He’s particularly well suited to people who want detailed modelling around retirement timing and super decisions, supported by an experienced financial planner who explains the reasoning clearly.
Areas of expertise: Superannuation and SMSF, financial modelling, budgeting, tax strategies, transition to retirement, FIRE, investments, estate planning, business structuring
Key awards: Consistently recognised as one of Sydney’s top financial planners by Adviser Ratings
Founding Partner, Certified Financial Planner®, SMSF Specialist Advisor
Advisor Since: 2001 | | LinkedIn
Cameron operates through a fully independent model, focusing on aligning financial decisions with personal values rather than product solutions. His strength lies in structuring retirement and SMSF strategies where clarity and trade-offs matter. For clients who want personal advice free from institutional influence, he stands out as a reputable financial adviser.
Areas of expertise: Independent advice, SMSF advice, tax advice, retirement planning, goal-based planning, investment strategy
Key awards: National Investment Adviser of the Year (2015), Finalist for SMSF Adviser of the Year (2015–2017), Finalist for Investment Adviser of the Year (2016)
Founding Partner, Certified Financial Planner®
Advisor Since: 2000 | | LinkedIn – Chris Smith | LinkedIn – Visis
Chris works within the wealth management and family office space, supporting clients who require coordinated oversight across multiple financial structures. His governance-oriented background makes him particularly strong in complex, multi-entity scenarios. For high-net-worth families seeking disciplined investment oversight, he is widely recognised as a top-rated investment advisor.
Areas of expertise: Family office management, investment management, SMSFs, executive share plans, taxation management, investment and wealth vehicles
Key awards: Ranked on Barron’s list of Australia’s Top Financial Advisors for five consecutive years, including #12 nationally and #1 in Queensland (2024)
Independent Financial Adviser CFP®, B Bus (Acc), Dip FP, SMSF Specialist, MCIFAA
Advisor Since: 2017 | | LinkedIn
Andy brings senior investment experience into a conflict-free financial advice model built around evidence and structure. He focuses on removing product bias and simplifying decisions that often feel unnecessarily complex. Clients who prefer disciplined thinking and independence over marketing-led messaging tend to value working with this experienced financial adviser.
Areas of expertise: Superannuation guidance, investment strategy, insurance planning, retirement preparation, tax reduction strategies
Certified Financial Planner®, Aged Care Specialist, Ad Dip FP
Advisor Since: 2007 | | LinkedIn
Gareth approaches financial planning through the lens of wellbeing, placing long-term relationships and life goals at the centre of each strategy. His work often extends into legacy and aged care considerations, rather than stopping at investment selection. Families looking for guidance that connects finances to broader life outcomes often view him as a trusted financial planner.
Areas of expertise: Portfolio development, estate planning strategy, aged care planning, financial coaching, intergenerational wealth management
Certified Financial Planner®, Aged Care Specialist, B Bus (Acc&Fin)
Advisor Since: 2001 | | LinkedIn
John’s financial planning work often extends into a Family CFO-style role, helping business owners and families organise multiple entities and moving parts. His structured oversight suits clients who need coordination across trusts, investments, and long-term strategy. For those managing complexity, he stands out as an experienced financial planner with a practical, steady approach.
Areas of expertise: Comprehensive financial planning, family trust and company structures, Family CFO services, investment management, tax-efficient strategy, estate planning, aged care strategy
Director – Financial Advisor, Master of Financial Planning, B Comm (Fin&Econ)
Matt’s background in private banking shapes a relationship-driven approach focused on building wealth over time rather than chasing short-term gains. His understanding of lending considerations adds depth when balancing borrowing and investing decisions. For professionals wanting disciplined, long-term financial advice, he offers the perspective of an experienced financial adviser.
Areas of expertise: Financial goal setting, superannuation planning, investment analysis, borrowing strategy
Director & Senior Financial Planner
Advisor Since: 2011 | | LinkedIn
David applies analytical modelling and scenario testing to help clients compare trade-offs before committing to major financial decisions. His cross-market experience supports a broader perspective on property and investment planning. Clients who prefer to see options stress-tested side by side often appreciate working with this experienced financial adviser.
Areas of expertise: Holistic financial modelling, property strategy, superannuation planning, investment planning, wealth strategy development
Certified Financial Planner®, SMSF Specialist, B Bus (FP)
Ellie works within a goals-based framework that prioritises client experience and measurable progress over product selection. Her involvement in advice innovation and industry recognition reflects consistent delivery rather than marketing positioning. Clients who value practical, life-aligned financial advice often choose her as an award-winning financial adviser.
Areas of expertise: Goals-based planning, SMSF guidance, retirement planning, behaviour-based strategy, investment optimisation
Industry Recognition: Self-Licensed of the Year (2024), Client Servicing Company of the Year (2024), Excellence Awards (2021, 2024)
B Bus (Banking & Fin), Certified Financial Planner®
Advisor Since: 2003 | | LinkedIn | Languages: English, Mandarin
John’s background in stockbroking and corporate finance gives him a market-aware perspective that informs his financial advice. He is particularly strong where listed investments and structured decision-making are central to the strategy. Investors seeking a reputable financial adviser with direct market context often find his approach well suited to their needs.
Areas of expertise: ASX investment advice, capital-raising support, wealth strategy, financial direction, family financial decision support
Retiring in Next 5 Years → Brenton Tong, Cameron Howlett, Gareth Colgan, Ellie Fordham
Need: Age Pension optimization, income drawdown strategy, longevity planning
High Net Worth ($2M+) → Chris Smith, John Hollyman
Need: Estate planning, family office services, tax structures
Want to Establish SMSF → Cameron Howlett, Ellie Fordham, Chris Smith, Brenton Tong
Need: SMSF setup, compliance, investment strategy
Business Owner → John Hollyman, Brenton Tong, Chris Smith
Need: Business structuring, exit planning, wealth extraction
Property Investor → David Hancock, Matt Dragovic
Need: Debt structuring, tax optimization, portfolio strategy
Young Professional / FIRE → Brenton Tong, Ellie Fordham, Andy Darroch
Need: Aggressive wealth building, tax optimization, early retirement
Aged Care Planning → Gareth Colgan, John Hollyman
Need: RAD/DAP strategy, estate planning, means testing
Mandarin Speaking → John Kuo
Need: Bilingual advice with cultural understanding
Financial advice fees vary depending on complexity, service scope, and adviser experience. In Sydney, fees tend to sit toward the higher end of national ranges due to higher operating costs and the complexity of many clients’ financial situations.
Comprehensive Financial Plan: $2,000–$5,000
Typically includes retirement projections, investment strategy, superannuation review, risk assessment, tax considerations, and a written Statement of Advice.
Ongoing Advice: $3,000–$5,000 per year
Regular reviews, portfolio monitoring, strategy adjustments, and continued access to professional support.
Single-Issue Advice: $1,500–$3,500
Focused advice on matters such as retirement readiness, super consolidation, portfolio review, insurance analysis, or aged care planning.
SMSF Setup: $3,000–$7,000
Includes suitability assessment, establishment, compliance framework, and investment strategy preparation.
Hourly Consultation: $300–$550 per hour
Suitable for targeted advice, second opinions, or specific financial questions.
Some ongoing investment-related advice fees may be tax deductible. Initial plan preparation fees are generally not. Your adviser or accountant can clarify your specific situation.
Comprehensive financial advice in Sydney typically costs between $2,000 and $5,000 for an initial plan, with ongoing services averaging around $4,000 to $5,000 per year. Because operating costs are higher in Sydney, fees here tend to sit toward the upper end of the national range.
Many firms offer a complimentary first meeting or a low-cost initial consultation, and hourly rates usually range from $300 to $550 depending on experience and complexity.
Yes, most Australians who use a financial planner report higher confidence, better retirement outcomes, and greater peace of mind. Studies show advised clients are significantly more likely to feel financially secure and on track for their goals. Good advice can often save or earn you far more than the fee itself over time.
Absolutely. Many investment advisers and retirement planners in Sydney specialise in helping clients with $300,000–$1 million in investable assets. With $500,000, a planner can structure your superannuation, investments, and cash flow to grow your wealth strategically and optimise for tax efficiency and retirement goals.
Check the ASIC Financial Advisers Register: https://moneysmart.gov.au/financial-advice/financial-advisers-register
This register shows licence status, qualifications, experience, and compliance history. Look for advisers who hold recognised credentials such as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation and membership with the Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA), which indicates strong professional standards.
All Sydney advisers on this page have been verified through ASIC.
Your first meeting with a Sydney financial adviser (typically 30-60 minutes, usually free) covers:
You’ll leave with a clear understanding of fees and process, with no obligation to proceed.
Many of Sydney’s leading financial advisers are based in the CBD and Barangaroo, close to the city’s major financial and business hubs. You’ll also find highly regarded financial planners in North Sydney, Parramatta, Chatswood, and the Sutherland Shire.
Virtual consultations: Most Sydney advisers offer Zoom/Teams meetings, so location matters less than finding the right fit.
Most advisers offer comprehensive virtual services. Video consultations work well for ongoing reviews and most planning needs. Some clients prefer in-person initial meetings but continue virtually afterward.
Technology enables excellent service regardless of geography—focus on finding the right adviser rather than proximity.
1. Review advisers above and shortlist 2-3 who match your needs
2. Book free initial consultations (no obligation)
3. Compare fees, approach, and personal fit
4. Choose the adviser you feel most comfortable with
5. Begin your financial planning journey
The best financial adviser isn’t the one with the most credentials or lowest fees, it’s the one who understands your situation, communicates clearly, operates with integrity, and has relevant expertise.
The cost of inaction—through sub-optimal decisions, high fees, and missed opportunities—is almost always higher than the cost of quality advice.
Selection Process: We identify ASIC-licensed advisers, verify qualifications and compliance, and assess experience, specializations, and client reviews. Only advisers meeting strict standards are featured.
You should: Interview 2-3 advisers, verify ASIC licenses yourself, ask about fees directly, and trust your instincts about fit.
Feedback: [email protected]
All advisers independently verified through ASIC records. Annual reviews conducted. Last review: February 2026.
Disclaimer: This directory provides general information only and is not financial advice. All advisers listed are independent businesses. We receive listing fees but do not accept referral commissions. Verify credentials independently before proceeding.
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