AFA, TAL reveal semi-finalists in Female Excellence in Advice Award

This year's semi-finalists include Crystal Broadfoot of The Next Step Financial Group and Esther Althaus of Perspective Financial Services.

Heather Jensen, of Carrington Financial Services, SA, is also a semi-finalist along with Tricia Peters, of PetersMcKeown; Sharon Walker from NAB; and Michelle Roberts with BCV Financial Solutions.

According to a statement by the AFA, the award recognises the talents and contributions of women in financial advice to their clients, the community and professions.

Other considerations include the "assessment of candidates' contribution to financial literacy in the community or campaigns targeted specifically at helping female clients take control of their financial lives", the statement said.

Finalists will be announced in early September, with the winner's name revealed at the AFA National Adviser Conference in Cairns, to be held 25-27 October.

AFA chief executive Brad Fox said the award is a reflection of the AFA's commitment to continue to generate and encourage women to enter the advice profession.

"The achievements of the women nominated, and the semi-finalists especially, really show that our profession can earn the recognition and respect of the public," he said.

"The more we can continue to showcase the value of their advice, the sooner more Australians will understand what financial advice is, what the process involves and how valuable it is."

TAL Life general manager of retail distribution Niall McConville said the calibre of applicants is always exceptionally high and this year was no exception.

"TAL continues to be very proud of this jointly initiated award with the AFA because it reminds us of the amazing female talent we have in the industry and an opportunity to recognise their fantastic contribution to the profession and their own communities," he said.

"TAL supports gender equality and believes strongly in greater representation of women in financial services and the difference diversity can make to the financial outcomes of both men and women."