Nominations open for the 2024 FAAA Awards

The Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA) is encouraging advisers to nominate themselves or fellow members as nominations open for its 2024 awards, recognising advisers delivering high-quality advice and serving their community.

This year, advisers have the opportunity to apply for six award categories, including Certified Financial Planner Professional of the Year, Adviser of the Year (sponsored by Zurich), Inspire Women – Excellence in Advice (sponsored by TAL), Professional Practice of the Year (sponsored by Cbus Super), Gen Next Rising Star of the Year, and University Student of the Year (sponsored by UniSuper).

Tania Milnes, FAAA general manager, membership, said the awards give advisers the opportunity to be recognised for their hard work throughout the year.

“The FAAA Awards are designed to recognise members who deliver the highest standards of professionalism and trusted advice to Australian consumers, as well as those who have gone above and beyond to support their local community through pro bono or volunteer work,” Milnes said.

“By supporting the FAAA Awards, our members can help celebrate the commitment, talent, and passion within our profession and share the good stories about financial advice.”

In a first for the FAAA Awards, advisers are also able to nominate their peers for awards, which Milnes believes will help recognise those who may not think to apply themselves, allowing them to be recognised for their contributions to the profession.

“This not only encourages applicants to put themselves forward but also validates the hard work and dedication of their peers,” she said.

“Nominating peers fosters a culture of recognition and appreciation within your organisation, the profession, and the advice community. Recognising others’ accomplishments can lead to higher morale, increased motivation, and a stronger sense of belonging.”

Members are able to nominate their peers up until 24 July, and award applications will close on 6 August.

Winners will be announced at the Gala Dinner Ceremony at the FAAA Congress in Brisbane on 28 November.

Speaking on his own experience winning the Certified Financial Planner Professional of the Year Award last year, Martin McGrath said it offered him the opportunity to reflect on his time in the profession and build new relationships.

“Participating in the FAAA award process was transformative. It allowed me to reflect on my journey as a financial planner and reminded me why I do what I do. The connections and friendships made with peers during this process have been invaluable,” McGrath said.

Kieran Forde, head of adviser channel at Zurich Australia, said he is pleased to continue Zurich’s partnership with the FAAA by sponsoring the Adviser of the Year Award.

“We are proud to support a program that recognises outstanding individuals who exemplify professionalism and high standards. This award not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights Zurich's commitment to supporting advisers and the broader financial industry,” Forde said.

Beau Riley, TAL general manager, retail sales and new business, said TAL is proud to support the Inspire Women - Excellence in Advice Award again this year, helping promote diversity and foster positive change within the profession.

“The award honours women who contribute significantly to their clients, profession and community, while empowering female advisers to shape the future of the industry,” Riley said.

“Over the last decade, these industry awards have celebrated numerous remarkable women who have emerged as leaders during a period of significant transformation in the advice profession.”

Andrew Gregory, head of financial advice and education at UniSuper, said UniSuper is pleased to be sponsoring the FAAA University Student of the Year Award this year.

“This award highlights exceptional work, skill and passion for advice in the next generation of talented professionals, and UniSuper congratulates all nominees,” Gregory said.

“Financial advice makes a huge difference in the lives of Australians every day. But it doesn’t happen by accident. Skilled, passionate people drive great advice, and this award highlights the best of the best."