AFA opens submissions for adviser awards

AFA chief executive Brad Fox said in a statement that the Adviser of the Year and Practice of the Year awards – presented in partnership with Zurich – present a “willingness” of professional advisers to become leaders when the industry is dealing with “considerable disruption”.

“Both the original AFA Adviser of the Year Award and the AFA Practice of the Year Award showcase the importance of focusing on client outcomes through connecting technical knowledge with adviser performance,” Mr Fox said.

“At a time when the reputation of financial advisers in the community is being challenged, these Awards provide an important opportunity to put the spotlight on the fantastic outcomes available to clients through receiving quality financial advice.”

In a separate statement, AFA national president Deborah Kent said the Female Excellence in Advice Award – presented in partnership with TAL – provides a platform to promote “positive change” in the advice industry by raising the profile of the profession and supporting female advisers.

“Since inception, the aim of the Award has been to encourage more women to enter the financial services industry and pursue financial advice roles, thereby giving greater gender choice to Australians when it comes to getting financial advice,” she said.

Ms Kent also added that despite increased employment opportunities for women, their representation in the industry “remains low”.

“In recognising the talents and contributions of female financial advisers we hope to inspire more women to join the profession and promote the value of financial advice to the community,” Ms Kent said.

Mr Fox added, in another statement, that The Rising Star Award – presented in partnership with ANZ Wealth – recognises excellence in advice and the next generation of financial advisers.

“Being nominated for the Award is an important step in recognition of an individual’s progression of their career,” he said.

“We encourage advisers to participate in the Award to aid their own further development. We also encourage licensees to nominate rising stars in their network.”