NAB adviser takes out AFA Female Excellence in Advice Award

Ms Walker was recognised for her passion for the advice profession and her belief in the value of quality financial advice, said AFA chief executive Brad Fox.

She will receive a $10,000 scholarship from Macquarie Graduate School of Management to complete an "executive education leadership development" program.

"The award is designed to champion women who are excellent financial advisers and Sharon is a very deserving winner," Mr Fox said.

"The award is also designed to encourage more women into the financial advice sector and to make financial advice more accessible to Australian women. In her own unique way, Sharon is furthering both of these causes through a focus on financial literacy and mentoring, which gives her clients and peers the confidence to make informed decisions – this is a key [criterion] for winning the award."

Ms Walker is an adviser with NAB Financial Planning in country Victoria who prefers to work with pre-retirees and early post-retirees. She also volunteers in her community and assists women to seek safety from violent relationships.

TAL's general manager for retail distribution, Niall McConville, said Ms Walker is an "outstanding candidate and deserving award winner".

"We are proud to encourage and inspire women in the industry to be their best," he said.

"Through this award, the extraordinary contributions of women to the industry can be recognised. Congratulations to all the award candidates, who are making meaningful contributions to their profession.

"Their passion and dedication is profoundly important to the industry and the role they play in the lives of their clients. Ms Walker typifies the best qualities of the advice community."