ASIC Unveils Updated Guidance to Strengthen Financial Advice Standards
ASIC Unveils Updated Guidance to Strengthen Financial Advice Standards
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.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has rolled out a fresh set of guidelines aimed at enhancing the quality of financial advice in the wake of significant legislative reforms.
This move aligns with the recently enacted Treasury Laws Amendments (Delivering Better Financial Outcomes and Other Measures) Act 2024, which is designed to foster better financial outcomes for consumers.
The new guidance comprises several key information sheets tailored specifically for financial advisers. These sheets provide essential clarifications on various aspects of client interactions and consent requirements, crucial for maintaining regulatory compliance.
Information Sheet 286 FAQs: Ongoing fee arrangements and consents (INFO 286) - This document offers answers to common questions surrounding the necessity for written consent from clients prior to entering or renewing ongoing fee arrangements.
Information Sheet 287 FAQs: Non-ongoing fee requests or consents (INFO 287) - Focused on non-ongoing fees, this resource elaborates on the need for clients' written permission when charging such fees against their superannuation accounts.
Information Sheet 291 FAQs: FSGs and website disclosure information (INFO 291) - This sheet clarifies obligations concerning Financial Services Guides (FSGs) and the requisite disclosures on websites.
Information Sheet 292 FAQs: Informed consents for insurance commissions (INFO 292) - It outlines the requirements to obtain informed consent to avoid potential conflicts of interest related to certain insurance commissions.
This initiative comes at a time when there is a growing demand for transparency and accountability within the financial services sector. ASIC’s proactive approach in providing these updates reflects its commitment to ensuring that financial advisers are equipped with the knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of client consent effectively.
Looking ahead, ASIC has indicated that additional guidance will follow once the second phase of the Government’s Delivering Better Financial Outcomes package is legislated. This continuous enhancement in regulatory guidance signifies ASIC’s ongoing efforts to adapt to the evolving financial landscape and consumer needs.
As firms begin to integrate these updates into their practices, industry stakeholders are urged to closely evaluate their current processes for client consent to ensure full compliance with the new requirements. The clarity provided by these information sheets is expected to assist advisers in better servicing their clients while upholding the integrity of the financial advisory profession.
For financial professionals looking to deepen their understanding of these updates, ASIC encourages ongoing education and training. Subscribing to relevant newsletters and exploring video courses can provide valuable insights and ensure advisers stay ahead in this dynamic field.
These updates convey a clear message: a commitment to empowering consumers with better financial advice and outcomes is central to the future of the industry. As stated by David Jacobson, Principal at Bright Corporate Law, maintaining adherence to these updated standards is crucial for fostering trust in financial advice.
For more detailed information, visit the ASIC website or consult specific guidelines outlined in the published sheets. Staying informed and proactive will be essential for financial advisers seeking to thrive in a post-reform environment.
Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.
Recent caravan industry reporting suggests Australia's RV market is moving into a more selective phase, with buyers taking longer to decide, comparing layouts more carefully and looking harder at total ownership costs before committing. That does not mean demand for caravanning has disappeared. Rather, it points to a market where households are more cautious, dealers are working harder to convert enquiries, and value is being judged beyond the headline price. - read more
Australia's latest monthly new-car sales reporting has reinforced a trend caravan buyers cannot afford to ignore: the tow vehicle is becoming just as important to the finance conversation as the caravan itself. Utes, large SUVs and four-wheel drives continue to attract strong buyer interest, helped by touring lifestyles, work-and-family versatility and the need for higher towing capacity. - read more
Australia’s latest inflation signals have kept interest-rate relief from looking straightforward, and that is important for anyone planning a caravan purchase before spring. While borrowers have been watching for signs of a lower cash rate, the recent commentary around consumer prices suggests lenders may remain cautious rather than aggressively cutting rates across recreational asset loans. - read more
Fleetwood’s decision to sell its RV Solutions division, including the well-known Camec business, to Aussie Traveller is another sign that Australia’s caravan sector is still reshaping after a volatile few years. The binding sale agreement, announced on 16 July 2026, puts a $9.5 million headline price on the business and is expected to complete on 1 September 2026. - read more
Fresh caravan loan comparison data published on 15 July 2026 points to a market where headline rates can look attractive, but the difference between a strong application and a weaker one remains significant. For Australians planning to buy a caravan, camper trailer or motorhome, the message is clear: do not judge a loan by the advertised rate alone. - read more
Bad credit may affect whether you qualify for caravan finance, the loan structure you are offered and the total cost of borrowing. This guide explains common assessment factors, responsible lending considerations and risks to weigh before applying in Australia. - read more
Embarking on the open road with the comfort of a home-on-wheels is a dream for many adventurers. The freedom to explore uncharted territories without the constraints of hotel bookings and fixed itineraries taps into the very essence of what it means to travel. This article aims to guide you through the financial path to achieving your caravan dreams, focusing on a crucial aspect: understanding caravan loan terms. - read more
Caravanning has become a beloved way of life and holiday choice for many Australians, offering the freedom to explore the vast beauty of our country at a leisurely pace. The lure of the open road and the versatility of having a home on wheels has led to an ongoing surge in caravan popularity across the continent. - read more
Exploring the vast and varied landscapes of Australia is a dream for many adventurers, and owning a caravan unlocks the freedom to roam the country at one's leisure. Caravaning is more than just a mode of travel; it's a lifestyle and a hobby embraced by those who seek the thrill of the open road and the serenity of nature. Given the significance of this investment, understanding the financial aspects becomes paramount. - read more
Buying your first caravan is an exciting milestone, offering you the freedom to explore Australia's stunning landscapes at your own pace. However, the upfront cost of purchasing a caravan can be substantial. For many first-time buyers, financing presents a viable option to make this dream a reality without depleting savings. - read more
Start Here
Get a free caravan finance eligibility assessment and compare options
tailored specifically to your circumstances.
Knowledgebase
Credit Default Swap (CDS): A financial derivative or contract that allows an investor to "swap" or offset their credit risk with that of another investor.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.