Advisers attracted to flexibility of CFP® Certification Program


The Financial Planning Association of Australia (FPA) has seen a spike in enrolments for the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification program, thanks in part to the increased flexibility of the program.

Mark Rantall, CEO of the FPA said, “For the first time ever, the CFP® certification program enables advisers to choose which unit they want to study first and provides them with a pre-admission service. This makes it easier to create a ‘personalised’ pathway into the program – one that works around planners’ lifestyle and work commitments.”

Of the 700 students enrolled this semester, a number are returning students that are re-entering the program after taking a break.

David Minehan AFP®, Director at Novatax Financial Planners, resumed the CFP® certification program this year after a three-year study break, which meant he could balance his family and work commitments while studying at his own pace.

“The financial planning industry is a competitive landscape and the CFP® program is a clear differentiator that keeps us one step ahead of others. It is also a sign of trust for consumers. Clients are asking more questions about planners’ backgrounds, and the CFP® sets us apart from the rest.

“The arrival of my young family and the global financial crisis meant that I had less time than previously available for my studies. But the flexibility of the CFP® program meant that I could take a study break and still continue with my personal development. I can now complete the final two subjects of the program by the middle of this year through online courses and via correspondence,” Mr Minehan said.

The FPA is committed to working on a one-to-one basis with financial planners to find a tailored solution for those who want to join the program and complete it with the necessary tools and support. These include online subject rooms, comprehensive webinars and the option to join study groups for peer-to-peer support.

The CFP® designation is the only designation for financial planners that is recognised worldwide, requiring financial planners to adhere to world class professional and ethical standards.

There are already around 5,500 CFP® professionals in Australia and the volume of enrolments to the program this semester marks the desire by financial planners to pursue higher education standards and raise the bar.

For more information about the CFP® certification program, visit www.fpa.com.au