Frequently Asked Questions
We’ll have a ~20-minute conversation to understand your needs, explain our advice process, and outline how we may be able to support you. There’s no obligation — it’s simply a chance to explore fit.
Yes — we offer ongoing advice services for clients who value regular support, strategic updates, and proactive financial check-ins. While this is optional, we generally recommend ongoing advice to ensure your strategy remains aligned with your goals as life and legislation change. We’ll discuss whether this is appropriate for you after your initial advice has been implemented.
We are a fee-only practice. If personal advice is appropriate for your situation, we’ll provide a clear quote outlining the scope, cost, and structure before proceeding. There are no hidden fees or commissions
We begin with a complimentary introductory call to understand your needs and determine whether financial advice is appropriate. If so, we’ll recommend booking a Discovery Meeting, which costs $440 (inc GST). During this meeting, we explore your goals in more detail and clarify the scope of advice required. If personal advice is suitable, we’ll also outline the associated fees before proceeding. From there, we prepare and present a tailored advice document. If you choose to go ahead, we assist with implementing the strategy and can provide ongoing support as needed.
Yes — we have experience working with Commonwealth and military defined benefit schemes. We help you understand your entitlements, model different retirement outcomes, and integrate your scheme into a broader financial strategy.
We’re flexible — meetings can be held via phone, video call, or in person. Many clients find online meetings convenient, but if you prefer a face-to-face discussion, we’re happy to meet in Canberra by appointment.
We work with individuals and families who are planning for retirement, growing wealth, navigating complex superannuation (including defined benefit schemes), or simply looking for clarity and direction. If you’re ready to make informed decisions about your financial future, we’d be happy to help.
Choosing the right financial planner comes down to understanding their qualifications, licensing, and whether their services match your needs. At Altum Independent Financial Advice, we are a Corporate Authorised Representative under AFSL 700119, and we specialise in retirement planning, superannuation strategies, and Centrelink guidance for Canberra clients. For more independent guidance, visit Moneysmart.gov.au
Our fees are typically invoiced directly to you, though in some cases, they may be deducted from your superannuation or investment account (where allowed). We’ll clearly explain your payment options before any work begins, so there are no surprises.
Some financial advice fees are tax-deductible — typically where they relate to the ongoing management of existing investments or strategies that generate assessable income. However, fees for initial advice, super contributions, or insurance advice are generally not deductible. We’ll let you know which components of your advice may be eligible to claim as a deduction.
Book Your Complimentary Introductory Call
Book a 20-minute introductory call to discuss your financial goals, ask initial questions and consider whether financial advice may assist.