Why Ongoing Financial Advice Is Worth It (and Why It Matters More Than Ever Today)

Creating a financial plan is a critical first step—but it’s just the beginning. Real financial success isn’t achieved through a one-off document. It’s shaped through consistent decision-making, course corrections, and adapting to life’s inevitable changes. That’s where ongoing financial advice proves its worth.

At Independent Wealth Partners, we often say our work truly begins after the initial recommendations are in place. From that point on, we act as partners—helping our clients stay focused, informed, and confident as they navigate changing markets and evolving life circumstances.

According to Russell Investments’ 2024 Value of an Adviser Report, advisers in Australia can deliver around 5.7% in annual value, combining behavioural coaching (3.3%), appropriate asset allocation (1.1%), and tax-savvy planning (1.3%). Importantly, that figure doesn’t even account for the emotional reassurance, clarity, and strategic discipline that a long-term adviser relationship brings.

1. Adaptability Is Everything

Life is rarely static. Career changes, family dynamics, property moves, health concerns, or legislative changes all impact your financial path. A plan that made sense five years ago might no longer serve you today. Ongoing advice helps ensure your strategy evolves with you—keeping your goals aligned and your portfolio appropriately positioned.

2. Behavioural Coaching Beats Market Timing

When markets turn volatile, emotions often take the wheel. Many investors fall into the trap of selling during downturns and buying during market peaks. This reactive behaviour can drastically erode long-term returns.

Research shows that missing just a few of the best-performing days in the market can reduce total returns by more than half. Ongoing advice acts as a safeguard—reminding clients of their long-term strategy, keeping fear and greed in check, and helping them avoid costly mistakes.

3. Tax-Savvy Investing Adds Quiet Value

Smart investing isn’t just about growth—it’s also about what you keep after tax. Advisers help structure portfolios to take advantage of different tax environments, including superannuation, trusts, companies, and personal accounts.

This can result in meaningful differences over time. For instance, investing via super may reduce taxable income, while certain ownership structures can ease estate planning or Centrelink considerations. Without regular guidance, these opportunities can be missed—or worse, misused.

4. It’s About More Than Money

Clients who receive ongoing advice consistently report higher levels of satisfaction, lower financial stress, and more confidence in their future. In a 2024 study by the Financial Advice Association Australia, 71% of advised Australians said their quality of life improved thanks to financial advice, compared to 62% of those without advice.

The value isn’t just in numbers. It’s in knowing you’re not alone, that someone understands your situation deeply, and that you can make decisions with clarity—whether it's downsizing, retiring, supporting adult children, or planning a legacy.

5. Complexity Needs Expertise

Australia’s financial system is complex. Investment markets, super rules, insurance structures, and tax regulations are constantly shifting. Without technical expertise, it’s easy to make expensive mistakes. A long-term adviser relationship ensures you have access to timely insights, strategic adjustments, and a framework for making smart, informed decisions.

At Independent Wealth Partners, we believe in ongoing advice because life doesn't stand still. We work closely with our clients through every stage of life—whether they’re building wealth, transitioning to retirement, or planning their legacy—ensuring their financial strategies grow and adapt with them.

If you’re wondering whether your current plan still fits where you’re headed—or if you’d simply like to understand the potential value of advice in your situation—we’d love to have that conversation.

Because good advice doesn’t just deliver returns—it delivers peace of mind.

General Advice Warning

The information in this article is general advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information provided and the nature of the relevant financial product having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. You should seek independent financial advice to discuss your personal circumstances.