Why ongoing financial advice matters more than ever

Many people think financial planning is a one-and-done deal — get a plan, follow it, and you’re set. But the reality is far different.

Life doesn’t stand still. Markets shift, laws change, and personal circumstances evolve. A static plan quickly becomes outdated, meaning you could miss great opportunities and find yourself unprepared for what’s ahead. That’s why ongoing financial advice isn’t just beneficial — it’s essential for long-term success. It keeps you on track, helps you adapt to change, and ensures you make the right moves at the right time.

The power of ongoing advice

Think of financial planning like driving to a destination. A one-time plan is like being handed a map and told, “Good luck!” Ongoing advice, however, is like having an experienced co-pilot beside you — someone who helps you navigate roadblocks, avoid detours, and reach your goals safely and efficiently.

In fact, the benefits are proven. A Rice Warner study found that investors who received advice over four to six years accumulated 60% more assets than those who didn’t. Over 15 years, that figure jumped to an incredible 290%. And according to a Fidelity International report, 74% of Australians receiving advice say it has improved their financial wellbeing, while nearly half report better mental health as a result. The numbers speak for themselves — good advice pays off, both financially and emotionally.

Financial planning is not one-and-done

Life is constantly changing. New jobs, family milestones, economic shifts, and legislative updates can all impact your financial future. Without regular check-ins, even the best strategy can drift off course.

Ongoing advice ensures your plan evolves with you — so you can stay aligned with your goals, take advantage of opportunities, and protect your wealth. It also provides accountability and structure, helping you stay focused when life’s many distractions arise.

With ongoing advice, you benefit from:

  • Regular reviews to keep your plan aligned with changing needs

  • Proactive adjustments to market and personal developments

  • Expert guidance for major decisions

  • Accountability when motivation dips

  • Long-term clarity and peace of mind

What to look for in an ongoing advice relationship

A strong advice relationship is built on trust, consistency, and access. Here’s what you should expect:

  • A structured review program: Your adviser should meet with you regularly (at least annually) to review your goals, performance, and any changes in your life.

  • Ongoing portfolio management: Your investments should be actively monitored and adjusted as needed to reflect your agreed level of risk and long-term objectives.

  • Access to your adviser: Life happens — and when it does, you need someone who knows your situation and can guide you quickly and confidently.

  • Proactive advice: Your adviser should contact you if urgent changes are required, especially during volatile times or major market shifts.

  • Legislative updates: Financial rules change often. Your adviser should keep you informed and ensure your plan remains compliant and optimised.

  • Collaboration with other professionals: A good adviser coordinates with accountants, estate planners, and lending specialists to ensure all your financial affairs work together.

  • Coaching and support: Beyond numbers, your adviser helps you make rational, long-term decisions — not emotional, short-term ones.

It’s not about constant meetings — it’s about confidence and clarity

Good financial advice isn’t about endless meetings or reports. It’s about having experts in your corner who work behind the scenes to ensure your financial life stays on track. When challenges arise or big decisions need to be made, ongoing advice gives you access to someone who understands your full picture and can provide clear, informed guidance.

Protecting what matters most

Ultimately, ongoing financial advice is about creating a living, breathing strategy — one that grows with you, protects what matters most, and helps you make the most of every opportunity.

At FERN Financial, we see advice not as a cost, but as an investment — one that delivers clarity, confidence, and measurable long-term benefit. We take the burden off your shoulders, refining your strategy continuously so you can focus on everything else that matters in your world.

Financial success isn’t about set-and-forget plans. It’s about having the right advice at the right time — for life.


Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and is presented for informative purposes. It is not intended to constitute financial advice or a recommendation and may not be relevant to your situation or circumstances. Before taking any action, consider your own particular circumstances and seek professional advice. This content is protected by copyright laws and various other intellectual property laws. It is not to be modified, reproduced or republished without prior written consent.

Ayal Fernando