Super fund launches online tool to ‘break down barriers’ to affordable advice

Chief executive Debby Blakey said the new tool, Future Planner, is helping address an unmet need for more personalised financial support in Australia.

“Future Planner aims to bridge the gap between high-cost financial advice that often exceeds the needs of many people and do-it-yourself online advice that’s often not personalised and isn’t designed to build confidence,” Ms Blakey said.

“We started by asking our members and they told us they wanted support with long-term planning. Future Planner helps our members build confidence in their financial future by supporting them to take successive small but powerful steps that builds their confidence that they’re on track for a great retirement.”

Co-designed with members, Future Planner blends digital help and in-person goals-based advice and allows the user to access it online “anytime, anywhere”.

HESTA’s chief advice officer, Josh Parisotto, said the tool was introduced due to a belief by many Australians that they can’t afford financial advice and find the prospect of planning their retirement daunting.

“Information is provided to members in a format that’s easy to understand. But it’s more than just numbers and projections, it’s about members considering what matters most to them,” Mr Parisotto said.

“We know our members’ goals are diverse. Future Planner is where money and values come together to make retirement real and more personal.”

Neil Griffiths

Neil is the Deputy Editor of the wealth titles, including ifa and InvestorDaily.

Neil is also the host of the ifa show podcast.