What Does a Financial Adviser Actually Do — And Why Every Australian Can Benefit from Financial Advice

Jackson Harvey is a Senior Financial Planner at HoodSweeney Securities (AFSL No. 220897) and we've asked him to simplify and explain what a financial planner does and how and why you can benefit from seeking professional advice.

As a highly regarded industry expert Jackson has provided the details and explanation below;

When people mention the term financial adviser, most people picture someone in a suit talking superannuation, insurance, or tax. While those areas are important, they barely scratch the surface of what real advice offers.

... At its core, financial advice isn’t just about your money - it’s about your life.

So, what does a financial adviser actually do?

We help you get clear on where you’re headed and build a plan to get you there - on your
terms.

A financial adviser works with individuals and families to understand what matters most to
them and builds a strategy to support those priorities. Whether it’s buying a first home,
managing the financial demands of raising children, or preparing for retirement, advisers
help navigate complexity and provide structure.

They act as a sounding board, a strategist, and a steady hand during life’s unpredictable
moments. Clients bring their goals; advisers bring the insight and experience to help make
those goals achievable.

Why Financial Advice Matters

Because life’s too short to constantly worry about money. And sadly, too many Aussies are
doing just that.

Many Australians feel uncertain about their financial future. Between conflicting opinions
online, advice from friends, and constant changes in the economy, it’s easy to feel
stuck or unsure about what steps to take.

That's where professional advice steps in - objective, qualified, and tailored to you.

What Quality Advice Offers

• Strategic Direction

Advisers help clients cut through the noise and focus on what’s relevant. Whether it’s
choosing the right investment approach, structuring debt, or planning for retirement, they
provide a framework for making sound decisions.

• Meaningful financial outcomes

Effective advice can literally save or earn you tens - even hundreds of thousands of dollars
over your lifetime. Whether it's smarter tax planning, avoiding costly missteps, or structuring your finances efficiently, it’s about making the most of what’s earned and keeping more of it.

•  Greater Peace of Mind - Less stress

Financial uncertainty is one of the biggest causes of stress for Australians. With a plan in
place, you’ll sleep better at night knowing you’re on track, protected, and prepared for
whatever life throws at you.

•  Education that lasts a lifetime

Our clients don’t just receive recommendations - they gain understanding. Advisers explain
the rationale behind each strategy, empowering clients to take ownership of their financial
journey, long after the meetings are done.

• Ongoing Support through all life stages

Your goals and circumstances will change and we’ll be there to adjust your strategy as life
evolves. New job? New baby? New House? Business opportunity? Family member passing?

Relationship breakdown? We’re by your side, helping you adapt and navigate each turn in
life’s journey, your journey.

Values That Build Trust

Trust is the foundation of every client relationship. The team is guided by three core
principles:

 Integrity – Always acting in your best interest. No fluff, no shortcuts. Just honest,
reliable advice.

 Ultimate transparency – Clear communication about fees and services - you’ll
always know what you’re paying for, and what services you receive. No fine print. No
surprises.

 Education – Financial wellbeing starts with understanding. Clients are encouraged
to engage with their financial journey, not just follow it. You don’t have to know every
detail but you need to know why advice has been provided and what path you wish to
go down. The more you know, the less you’ll worry.

Financial advice isn’t reserved for the wealthy - it’s for anyone who wants to take control of
their future. It’s about creating freedom: freedom from money stress. freedom to make
confident choices and freedom to prioritise what truly matters: your family, your wellbeing,
and your personal aspirations.

In a world full of financial “hot tips”, competing opinions, and rising uncertainty, having a
Trusted and Qualified adviser in your corner isn’t just helpful - it’s essential.

Because when your financial life is well-managed, everything else becomes easier to
navigate.

And that’s what real advice is all about!

Find our more about Financial Planning here: https://www.hoodsweeney.com.au/services/financial-planning

At Walkden & Co we recommend speaking with a professional financial planner to seek financial advice tailored to your individual circustances needs an objects, If you'd like to seek expert advice we'd recommend reaching Jackson on the below;

Jackson.Harvey@hoodsweeney.com.au

P: 1300 764 200