How Much Does a Financial Adviser Cost in Australia?

When people start thinking about getting financial advice, one of the first questions that comes up is: How much is this going to cost me?

It’s a fair question and an important one. Understanding how financial advisers charge, what you’re actually paying for, and whether it’s worth it can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Let’s break it down in plain English.

What Does a Financial Adviser Typically Charge?

In Australia, the cost of financial advice can vary depending on a few key things like the adviser’s experience, the complexity of your situation, and how much help you actually need.

Here are some common fee structures:

1. Initial Strategy or Advice Fee

This is usually a one-off cost to create your personalised financial plan.

• Typical range: $2,500 – $10,000

• At Spark Wealth Advisers: Our strategy sessions start from $550 for a high-level review and roadmap. More detailed advice is priced transparently based on your needs.

2. Ongoing Advice or Service Fees

If you want regular reviews, portfolio management, or ongoing support, you may be offered a monthly or annual service package.

• Typical range: $2,500 – $10,000 per year

• Some advisers charge a flat fee, while others may charge a percentage of your assets (e.g., 0.5–1% annually).

3. Hourly Rates

Some advisers charge by the hour for ad hoc guidance or limited-scope work.

• Typical rate: $330 – $660 per hour

What Are You Actually Paying For?

It’s not just about picking an investment or reviewing your super. Quality financial advice covers a range of things, such as:

• Setting clear financial goals and a strategy to achieve them

• Structuring your finances to reduce tax and increase efficiency

• Making smart investment decisions based on your risk tolerance

• Planning for retirement, property, or business growth

• Keeping your plan on track as life changes

Real Examples of How We Add Value

Here’s where advice really pays off. While every client’s situation is different, here are just a few real-world ways we’ve helped Australians improve their financial outcomes:

• Saving Tax With Smarter Strategies: We helped a client in their early 40s redirect surplus income into super via salary sacrifice while also setting up a tax-effective investment portfolio. The result? They saved over $4,000 a year in tax and boosted their long-term retirement savings.

• Maximising Retirement Income: For a couple planning to retire early, we restructured their assets across account-based pensions and super to create a tax-free income stream. Their projected retirement income increased by nearly $12,000 a year, simply through better planning.

• Unlocking Extra Centrelink Benefits: Another client was missing out on Age Pension payments due to how their assets were structured. After reviewing their position, we legally repositioned investments to help them qualify for an extra $180 per fortnight—more than $4,500 a year in additional income.

We like to say: you’re not paying for a document you’re paying for clarity, strategy, and peace of mind.

Is It Worth It?

This is where a lot of people get stuck. Why would I pay for advice when I can read blogs or watch YouTube videos for free?

Fair point but here’s the thing: DIY finance might work for simple scenarios, but it doesn’t replace tailored advice that considers your full financial picture. In fact, research consistently shows that Australians who work with a financial adviser:

• Feel more confident about their future

• Make better financial decisions

• Have more organised and tax-effective finances

• Are better prepared for unexpected events

For many of our clients, the value of advice often pays for itself over time through smarter strategies, avoided mistakes, and greater peace of mind.

Can You Get Free or Low-Cost Financial Advice?

In some cases, yes. Super funds sometimes offer general advice at no cost, and government services like MoneySmart provide great educational resources.

However, these are typically not personalised or comprehensive and they can’t replace tailored, strategic planning if you’re building wealth or dealing with complexity.

So, How Do I Know What I’ll Pay?

At Spark Wealth Advisers, we believe in clear, upfront pricing no surprise fees, no pushy sales.

Your first step is a complimentary 15-minute chat to see if we’re a good fit. If you decide to go ahead, we’ll give you a quote based on the level of advice you need. Simple as that.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’ve been wondering about the cost of advice, chances are you’re already thinking about how to make smarter financial moves. Let's chat.

Book your free intro call today and find out how much value the right financial advice can bring.

Click here to schedule or email info@sparkwealthadvisers.com.au