As Australians become more financially savvy, the demand for professional advice continues to grow. But one question remains top of mind for most people looking to engage expert help: how much does a financial adviser actually cost in 2025?
Whether you’re planning for retirement, trying to invest smarter, or looking to get your financial house in order, understanding the cost of financial advice—and what you get for your money—is essential.
In this guide, we break down the types of financial advice fees, what’s included, the value it offers, and how you can find affordable, trustworthy support from a licensed professional.
What Is a Financial Adviser (And Why It Matters That They’re Registered)?
A financial adviser is a licensed professional who provides guidance on personal finance decisions including investing, superannuation, retirement planning, insurance, and estate planning.
Key facts:
- Financial advisers in Australia must be listed on the ASIC Financial Adviser Register
- They are required to hold an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) or be authorised under one
- Advisers are legally obligated to act in your best interests and must provide a Statement of Advice (SOA) outlining their recommendations
Choosing a registered financial adviser is critical. It ensures:
- Transparent fees
- Regulatory oversight
- Access to complaint resolution if things go wrong
⚠️ Beware of unlicensed “money coaches” or social media influencers offering financial tips without regulatory protection.
The Three Main Ways Financial Advisers Charge Fees in 2025
Advisers can structure their pricing in different ways. Understanding these models helps you compare costs and choose what works best for your needs.
✅ 1. Fixed or Flat Fees
This is a set price for a specific service, regardless of your assets or financial position.
Common services charged as flat fees include:
- Initial financial plan
- Retirement projection
- Investment strategy setup
Typical range:
- $2,000 – $5,000 for a comprehensive plan
✅ 2. Hourly Rates
Charged for specific tasks or limited-scope consultations.
Typical hourly fees:
- $150 – $400 per hour, depending on experience and complexity
Best suited for:
- Budgeting help
- Reviewing super fund performance
- Getting a second opinion on a specific decision
✅ 3. Percentage-Based Fees (Assets Under Management)
This model charges a percentage of the assets your adviser is managing.
Typical range:
- 0.50% – 1.10% per year
Example:
- Managing $500,000 at 0.75% = $3,750 annually
Best suited for:
- High-net-worth individuals
- Clients who prefer an ongoing relationship with full portfolio management
📌 Note: Many advisers now blend these models, offering a flat fee for the plan and ongoing percentage-based fees for investment management.
Average Cost of Financial Advice in Australia (2025)
Here’s a breakdown of common advice services and what you can expect to pay:
| Type of Advice | Typical Fee Range (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Comprehensive Financial Plan | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Ongoing Annual Advice (Full Service) | $2,000 – $4,000+ per year |
| Hourly Advice or Review | $150 – $400/hour |
| Limited Scope Advice (e.g. super) | $500 – $1,500 (one-off) |
| SMSF Setup and Strategy | $3,000 – $6,000+ |
These figures vary based on:
- Adviser qualifications and reputation
- Service complexity
- Whether advice is personal, business, or family-focused
- Whether ongoing support is included
What Do You Get for Your Money?
Good financial advice is not just a plan on paper—it’s a long-term investment in clarity, security, and performance. Here’s what you’re actually paying for:
✅ What’s Included in the Cost:
- Comprehensive assessment of your income, debts, assets, and goals
- Investment recommendations tailored to your risk profile
- Superannuation optimisation
- Insurance advice (life, income, TPD)
- Estate and legacy planning
- Behavioural coaching to keep you disciplined through market ups and downs
- Ongoing reviews and strategy adjustments
🧠 Financial advisers also help you avoid costly mistakes and emotional decisions that can derail long-term goals.
Factors That Influence the Cost of Advice
1. Complexity of Your Financial Situation
- Do you own a business, multiple properties, or a SMSF?
- Do you have investments across various platforms?
More complexity = more time and expertise = higher fees.
2. Type of Advice Needed
- Retirement advice often costs more than general budgeting help
- Tax structuring and estate planning require legal alignment
3. Experience and Location of Adviser
- Senior advisers or those in major cities may charge more
- Regional advisers may offer more competitive pricing
4. Ongoing vs One-Off Advice
- One-time advice is cheaper up front but lacks ongoing guidance
- Annual reviews keep you on track but add to the cost
5. Advice Delivery Method
- Face-to-face meetings tend to cost more than remote or digital advice
- Some firms offer hybrid or online-only advice at reduced rates
Can You Get Financial Advice for Free or Cheap?
There are some low-cost or subsidised options available for Australians who want limited help:
💡 Super Funds:
- Many superannuation funds offer limited free advice about your account
- Scope is narrow (e.g., contribution strategies, insurance)
💡 Government Resources:
- Tools from Moneysmart (ASIC)
- Budget planners, retirement calculators, and general education
💡 Digital / Robo-Advisers:
- Some platforms offer algorithm-based advice starting from $300 – $1,000
- Not tailored or strategic—best for basic portfolios
💡 Employer-Funded Advice:
- Some companies provide staff with financial wellbeing programs
⚠️ These options rarely replace the depth and strategy of a registered adviser
Why Paying for Professional Advice Is Worth It
Numerous studies have shown that the value of advice exceeds the cost over the long term.
📈 Benefits of Good Advice:
- More efficient tax planning
- Better investment returns due to risk-adjusted strategies
- Improved retirement outcomes (through super and income streams)
- Financial peace of mind
🧮 Research-Backed ROI:
- Vanguard: Advised clients can gain up to 3% better returns per year compared to DIY
- Russell Investments: Advice can add up to 4.4% value annually through behavioural coaching and asset allocation
✅ Advice pays off in long-term savings, reduced mistakes, and stronger financial resilience
How to Make Financial Advice More Affordable
If the cost of advice feels high, try these smart strategies:
✅ 1. Choose Scoped or Modular Advice
- Ask for help with a single issue (e.g., super or insurance) rather than a full plan
✅ 2. Negotiate Fixed Fees
- Avoid percentage-based fees where possible—ask for quotes upfront
✅ 3. Compare Advisers
- Prices vary widely. Use your free initial consultation to understand fee structures
✅ 4. Pay Through Super (If Eligible)
- Some advisers allow superannuation-linked advice to be paid via your super fund
✅ 5. Bundle With Accounting or Tax Services
- Some firms offer accounting + advice packages for better value
FAQs About Financial Adviser Fees in 2025
Q1: Are financial advice fees tax-deductible?
A: Sometimes. If the advice relates directly to income-producing investments, ongoing fees may be deductible. Initial planning fees usually aren’t.
Q2: Can I negotiate with a financial adviser?
A: Yes. Most advisers are open to negotiating, especially for limited-scope services or younger clients.
Q3: How do I know if I’m being overcharged?
A: Get multiple quotes. Compare against national fee averages. Ask exactly what’s included.
Q4: Is it better to pay a flat fee or a percentage?
A: It depends. Flat fees offer cost certainty. Percentage fees may be suitable for those wanting full portfolio management.
Q5: Can I find an adviser who charges monthly instead of upfront?
A: Yes. Many now offer subscriptions or monthly retainers to spread costs over time.
Final Thoughts: Is the Cost Worth It?
Financial advice is often seen as a cost—but it should be viewed as an investment. A good adviser won’t just create a financial plan; they’ll help you avoid costly mistakes, make smarter decisions, and stay on course to achieve long-term goals.
💡 In most cases, the question shouldn’t be “Can I afford advice?” but rather, “Can I afford to go without it?”
If you’re serious about wealth creation, protecting your assets, or simply getting your financial life in order, investing in a registered financial adviser can offer immense value.
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