The FAAA has unveiled the 19 finalists for its annual awards, with the winners set to be announced at a Gala Dinner at the Melbourne Congress in late November.
The association says the 2026 FAAA Awards recognise advisers and practices “…delivering the highest standards of professional advice to Australian consumers. The awards also acknowledge those who go above and beyond, giving back to their communities through pro bono work and volunteering.” Additionally, the awards celebrate the next generation of advisers.
This year a new award recognising excellence in risk advice has been added.
The finalists named are:
Risk Adviser of the Year Award:
- Mark Everingham, CFP, Personal Risk Professionals
- Cameron Peck, CFP, Safeguard Life
Holistic Adviser of the Year Award:
- Nathan Fradley FChFP, Fradley Advice
- Charmaine Hall, Unbound Financial
Certified Financial Planner Professional of the Year Award:
- Scott Quinlan, CFP, Solace Financial
- Dawn Thomas, CFP, The Wealth Designers
- John Versace, CFP, Apt Wealth Partners
Inspire Women – Excellence in Advice Award:
- Sophie Doyle, Morgans Financial
- Morgan Hayward, Lume Wealth
- Andrea Jenkins, CFP, Jenbury Financial
Professional Practice of the Year Award:
- Apt Wealth Partners, VIC
- Oxlade Financial, QLD
- Solace Financial, QLD
Gen Next Rising Star of the Year Award:
- Eleanor Bagg CFP, EJM Advice
- Braden King, Everest Wealth
- Lydia Toghill, Collins SBA
University Student of the Year Award:
- Kayla Bradfield, Swinburne University of Technology
- Linda Connolly, Deakin University
- Jaxon Goddard, Curtin University
FAAA general manger membership and strategic initiatives, Tania Milnes, says the finalists reflect the breadth of talent across the profession.
“The FAAA awards acknowledge those who are truly committed to putting their clients first, supporting their communities, and raising standards across financial advice.”
She also thanked the award supporters, noting their dedication to recognising excellence across the profession.
Kieran Forde, head of adviser channel at Zurich Australia, sponsors of the Adviser of the Year Award and Risk Adviser of the Year Award, said Zurich congratulates the finalists for their achievements and for leading the way in financial advice.
“What stands out about this year’s finalists across both categories is the dedication, professionalism and client focus they bring to their work every day.”
Beau Riley, general manager retail at TAL, sponsor of the Inspire Women – Excellence in Advice Award, said the finalists are being recognised not only for the quality of advice they deliver, but for the example they set across the profession.
“These finalists show what’s possible when you combine real expertise with genuine care for your clients. Through their leadership, professionalism and commitment to delivering better client outcomes, they’re inspiring others and helping strengthen the future of advice,” he said.
