FPA 'Ask an Expert Week' kicks off

The national event runs from today to Sunday February 9 and is designed to improve access to financial advice for all Australians.

FPA chief executive Mark Rantall said that many Australians looking to implement their financial New Year’s resolution did not know where to look for guidance.

“Only one in three Australians (34 per cent) say they know where to find a financial planner that they can trust, according to our research,” Mr Rantall said.

“This number is even smaller among low-income households, who often stand to benefit the most from financial planning advice.

“That is why we set up Ask an Expert Week: to provide a bridge between consumers and financial planners who are professionally certified and bound by a Code of Professional Conduct.”

Ask an Expert Week offers a number of free resources linking consumers to experts in financial planning, including an online forum on the FPA website, a Twitter feed and blog containing useful tips and advice.

“One hesitation that we often hear about from consumers is that they don’t feel that financial planning can help them or that they can’t afford it,” Mr Rantall said.

“But whether you are a young professional just starting to earn income or approaching your retirement years, quality financial advice can help you set and achieve your life goals.”