Loans For Cars :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Adviser Qualifications Surge as 2026 Deadline Approaches

Adviser Qualifications Surge as 2026 Deadline Approaches

Adviser Qualifications Surge as 2026 Deadline Approaches?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

With the looming 2026 deadline for financial advisers to upgrade their qualifications, nearly 3,000 existing advisers in Australia are ramping up efforts to meet educational requirements.
The industry is seeing a significant influx of postgraduate students aiming to secure their credentials by January 1st, 2026.

Kaplan Professional, a leading provider of finance education, is playing a crucial role in this transition. Brian Knight, the CEO of Kaplan Professional, highlighted the importance of their institution in accommodating the growing number of aspirants seeking postgraduate qualifications. “We will carry the bulk of responsibility in fulfilling the education needs of Australia’s advisers before the deadline,” Knight stated.

Currently, Kaplan has around 2,500 students enrolled across six study periods, with additional enrollments expected as the deadline nears. In a remarkable surge, a course set to begin in December is seeing enrollment numbers soar to approximately 1,600 participants, while another course starting on January 13 boasts 500 students, which is an unprecedented fivefold increase compared to typical figures.

Knight noted, “Enrolments have steadily increased throughout 2023, and each study period has seen higher participation than its predecessor.” The imminent consequences that advisers face for failing to meet qualification standards are severe, driving many to prioritize their education efforts. “Our team is fully committed to assisting these students through this critical period,” he added.

To aid advisers in complying with the new regulations, Kaplan offers a variety of courses, including Masters, Graduate Diplomas, and Graduate Certificates in Financial Planning, as well as bridging courses approved by the Financial Advisor Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) successor.

Over the past five years, the financial education landscape has transformed, with around 12,000 advisers successfully obtaining higher educational qualifications, marking a significant achievement within the industry.

Feedback from academics like Ron McIver from South Australia highlights shifts in enrollment patterns following the introduction of the ten-year experienced adviser pathway in 2023. This pathway has provided advisors with extensive professional experience, a way to remain in practice without needing additional qualifications. McIver explained, “While the enforcement of education standards was initially expected to boost demand for postgraduate courses temporarily, it appears the impact has been more nuanced.”

McIver’s analysis suggests that the implementation of the experience pathway significantly lessened the urgency for current advisers to pursue further education. He elaborated, “The reduction in demand stems largely from changes made regarding the pathways available to experienced advisers, coupled with new visa regulations affecting international recruitment.”

The regulatory environment remains in flux, with ongoing reviews from the Treasury and Ministerial offices regarding the necessary curriculum and access pathways to financial planning programs. “We’re seeing a more discerning approach to evaluating these programs, leading some institutions to contemplate discontinuing their offerings,” McIver cautioned.

Despite these challenges, McIver remains optimistic that the inherent value of a financial planning career will inspire future students: “The potential to serve the community and improve financial wellbeing for Australians must maintain a base level of interest in both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.”

Overall, as the advisory landscape shifts towards higher educational standards, the commitment from both educators and students highlights the industry’s dedication to professional excellence. (Source: Professional Planner)

Published:Tuesday, 14th Jan 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

New Partnership Offers Discounted Loans for Hyundai and Kia Electric Vehicles
New Partnership Offers Discounted Loans for Hyundai and Kia Electric Vehicles
09 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) has announced a partnership with Hyundai Capital Australia (HCAU) to offer discounted financing options for eligible Hyundai and Kia electric vehicles (EVs). This initiative aims to reduce the upfront costs associated with EV ownership, making it more accessible for Australian households and small businesses. - read more
ASIC Identifies Concerning Practices in Australia's Car Finance Sector
ASIC Identifies Concerning Practices in Australia's Car Finance Sector
09 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has conducted a comprehensive review of the motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant issues that raise concerns about consumer protection and responsible lending practices. - read more
Surge in Used Hybrid Car Sales Reflects Australia's Shift Towards Sustainable Transportation
Surge in Used Hybrid Car Sales Reflects Australia's Shift Towards Sustainable Transportation
09 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian automotive market is witnessing a notable increase in the sales of used hybrid vehicles, indicating a growing consumer preference for sustainable yet practical transportation options. - read more
ASIC Calls for Improved Standards in Car Finance Lending
ASIC Calls for Improved Standards in Car Finance Lending
01 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has conducted a comprehensive review of the motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant concerns regarding lending practices. This examination has highlighted issues such as exorbitant establishment fees and a troubling rate of early loan defaults, raising questions about the adequacy of current lending standards. - read more
MONEYME's Strategic Move: $455 Million Boost for Autopay's Growth
MONEYME's Strategic Move: $455 Million Boost for Autopay's Growth
01 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant development within Australia's auto finance sector, non-bank lender MONEYME has successfully priced a $455.4 million asset-backed securitisation (ABS) for its secured car loan product, Autopay. This transaction marks the company's second major auto bond deal, following a $517.5 million transaction earlier in the financial year, underscoring MONEYME's rapid expansion and growing influence in the market. - read more
New Low-Interest Loans to Accelerate Electric Vehicle Adoption
New Low-Interest Loans to Accelerate Electric Vehicle Adoption
21 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant move to promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) among Australian consumers, the federal government has announced a new loan scheme designed to make EVs more accessible and affordable. This initiative aims to reduce the financial barriers associated with purchasing electric cars, thereby encouraging a shift towards more sustainable transportation options. - read more
Decline in Australia's Used Car Market: Sales and Listings Down
Decline in Australia's Used Car Market: Sales and Listings Down
21 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA), in collaboration with AutoGrab, has released the November 2025 Automotive Insights Report (AIR), revealing a significant downturn in the used car market as the year concludes. - read more


Car Loans Articles

Loans for Cars: Finding out if you Qualify
Loans for Cars: Finding out if you Qualify
Qualifying for a car loan isn't all that difficult. There are a few key things that lenders will look at when considering your application, including your income, credit history/existing loans, employment, age, and residency atatus. As long as you have a good understanding of these factors, you’ll be in a much better position to qualify for a car loan. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about qualifying for a car loan! - read more
Loans for Cars: Getting an Even Better Deal
Loans for Cars: Getting an Even Better Deal
If you're in the market for a new car, you're probably wondering what you need to do to get the best car loan. It's no secret that the car dealership will try to sell you a loan, but you don't have to take their offer! In fact, you can get a much better loan if you know what you're doing. - read more
Temporary Resident? Learn How You Can Qualify for an Australian Car Loan
Temporary Resident? Learn How You Can Qualify for an Australian Car Loan
Welcome to your comprehensive guide on navigating the Australian car loan landscape as a temporary resident. Whether you're here for work, study, or leisure, having your own vehicle can vastly improve your time in Australia. However, securing a loan for a car might seem like a formidable task given your temporary status. That's where this article steps in—to enlighten and empower you in this financial journey. - read more
10 Common Mistakes Australians Make When Financing Their Car
10 Common Mistakes Australians Make When Financing Their Car
Car financing has become increasingly popular among Australians for a variety of reasons. For many, it offers the opportunity to own a vehicle without having to pay the entire purchase price upfront. - read more
Avoid Rejection: Common Pitfalls to Sidestep in Meeting Car Loan Criteria
Avoid Rejection: Common Pitfalls to Sidestep in Meeting Car Loan Criteria
Entering the realm of self-employment brings with it not only the freedom to be your own boss but also unique challenges, especially when it comes to securing financing for significant purchases like a car. For the self-employed, the path to obtaining a car loan can be fraught with additional hurdles, stemming from the variable nature of their income and the scrutiny lenders apply to their financial profiles. - read more
Leveraging Trade-In Values and Loans for an Australian Car Upgrade
Leveraging Trade-In Values and Loans for an Australian Car Upgrade
For many Australians, a car is more than just a means of transportation; it's a symbol of freedom, a tool for exploration, and often, a reflection of personal style. With the auto market continually evolving, staying abreast of current trends is key for car buyers looking to upgrade. New models with advanced technology, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety features enter the market each year, making the prospect of upgrading increasingly appealing. - read more
The Pros and Cons of Refinancing Your Car Loan
The Pros and Cons of Refinancing Your Car Loan
Car loan refinancing involves taking out a new loan to pay off an existing car loan. This can be done with the same lender or a different one. The primary goal is often to secure better interest rates, alter the loan term, or reduce monthly payments. - read more


Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Life Cover Amount:
Your Postcode:
All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Need A Car Loan Right Now?
Compare car loan rates & options from participating car finance brokers and lenders in our national referral panel to help you find competitive finance solutions. Fast and free... our initial eligibility assessment does not access your credit file!

 START HERE.

Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.

Compare car loan rates & options from participating car finance brokers and lenders in our national referral panel to help you find competitive finance solutions. Fast and free... our initial eligibility assessment does not access your credit file!

Knowledgebase
Return on Investment (ROI):
A measure used to evaluate the efficiency of an investment or compare the efficiency of several different investments.