In a statement, the association said legislative changes, consumer expectations and challenging investment markets are putting financial pressure on small advice practices.
As a result, the AFA has started an 8-month payment plan for advisers who are seeking to attend the AFA National Adviser Conference in Canberra on 5-7 October.
Instalments are payable from February until October. However, advisers have only until 25 February to consider this option, the statement said.
“This locks in the ‘early bird’ price for them and there are no other fees levied on top of it,” said AFA chief executive Brad Fox.
“We have made it available to both our members and also to those who wish to become new members and attend the AFA National Adviser Conference. Instalments start from $146 a month.”
The AFA said 86 per cent of the registrations so far have opted for the payment plan.
“We talk with advisers every day and it is clear that cash flow is tight as they invest in their business strategy, advice fees, value propositions and client services,” Mr Fox said.
“What is also clear is that most advisers want the opportunity to participate in our conference whether that is to network and share experiences with other advisers or to share the professional development content we collate from around the world.”
