AFCA Leverages Enhanced Standards to Minimize Advice Complaints
AFCA Leverages Enhanced Standards to Minimize Advice Complaints
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 Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) demonstrated significant progress in managing investment and financial advice issues in the past year.
The organization reported closing 4,118 complaints in the sector during the 2024 fiscal year, marking an impressive 82% increase in resolved cases compared to the previous year.
Interestingly, the number of new complaints AFCA received in this sector fell to 3,559, a notable decrease of 26% from the preceding year. According to its annual report, AFCA attributed this decline to the positive impact of rising educational standards and heightened professionalism within the financial advisory industry.
However, challenges persist, particularly concerning the controversial case of Dixon Advisory, which continues to contribute to overall complaints. Without the Dixon Advisory-related grievances, complaints hit an all-time low of 2,709.
Lead Ombudsman for investments and advice, Shail Singh, noted during AFCA's recent member forum that outcomes were not universally favoring complainants. For instance, one claimant involved with Dixon did not suffer harm despite following conflicted advice.
Moreover, Senior Ombudsman Patrick Hartney highlighted, “When compared to what AFCA deemed appropriate advice, the complainant was actually better off with the conflicted advice result.” Hartney explained how cookie-cutter approaches to advice might have variable impacts based on individual circumstances, proving beneficial to some despite being generally suboptimal.
The AFCA annual report further elaborated that nearly half (44%) of the complaints they handled were resolved during the "rules review" phase. This stage, where issues are examined for jurisdictional appropriateness, requires detailed decision-making, explaining the average resolution timeframe of 129 days. Such intricate processes have been partly responsible for protracted case durations.
While complaint volume has decreased, the top issue remains inappropriate advice, which accounted for 706 (20%) of all complaints. Other recurring issues include confusion over the classification of Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) and wholesale client status, often leading to misapplication of financial thresholds, an insight noted by Sidoti, the Senior Ombudsman.
“It’s pretty clear that actually doesn’t apply in circumstances where advice is given to a trustee to an SMSF,” confirmed Sidoti. Misapplication of these financial thresholds can categorize SMSFs inaccurately, with serious advisories issued for small balance SMSFs lacking diversification.
With market volatility influenced by national political events, the authority has observed complaint trends shifting accordingly. Beyond handling regular disputes, AFCA has now been endorsed by the government to lead an external resolution scheme under the Scams Prevention Framework, a major initiative in the governmental “war on scams”, as stated by Minister Stephen Jones.
The pilot will cover three key sectors: banks, telecommunications, and digital platforms, illustrating an expansive approach to scam management involving interconnected industries.
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.
Club Marine, Australia's leading provider of recreational boat insurance, has expanded its offerings to include specific coverage for race boats while they are on land. This development comes through a new partnership with the Australian Offshore Powerboat Club (AOPC), aiming to address the unique insurance needs of race boat owners. - read more
The inaugural Great Barrier Reef Commercial Marine Conference was held in Cairns on 11 March 2026, bringing together 50 industry leaders, operators, and suppliers to discuss the future of Australia's commercial marine sector. A significant highlight of the event was the launch of the Australian Commercial Marine Economic Impact Study (EIS). - read more
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced emergency measures to address significant premium increases in the commercial auto insurance sector. Effective immediately, insurers are prohibited from implementing baseline premium hikes exceeding 25% without clear justification. - read more
In light of escalating tensions in the Middle East, the Australian insurance sector is proactively coordinating efforts to mitigate potential economic repercussions for policyholders. The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has activated its board strategy committee, comprising senior industry executives, to develop a unified response to the challenges posed by the conflict. - read more
The Australian Commercial Marine Group (ACMG) has unveiled a comprehensive Economic Impact Statement (EIS) that underscores the substantial role of the commercial marine sector in the nation's economy. The study reveals that the industry contributes $25.16 billion to Australia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) each year and supports 137,262 full-time equivalent jobs nationwide. This significant contribution highlights the sector's vital importance to the country's economic landscape. - read more
If you’re looking to finance a new or used jet ski, you may be wondering if it’s possible to get a loan with bad credit. The short answer is yes – and it may be easier than you think, but there are a few things you need to know before you start the process of applying for a loan. - read more
Your credit score is an important number that significantly impacts your financial health. It's a numerical representation of your creditworthiness based on your credit history. Lenders use this score to evaluate the level of risk involved in lending you money. - read more
The thrill of slicing through the waves, the rush of the open water, and the spirit of adventure all encapsulate the undeniable excitement of jetskiing. In Australia, with its vast and spectacular coastlines, owning a jetski is a dream many aspire to achieve. The power to zip across the sea at your own pace is not just a hobby; it's a lifestyle that beckons adventurers and water sports enthusiasts alike. - read more
Jetskis are quickly becoming a popular pastime in Australia, offering an exhilarating way to enjoy the sun and surf. The freedom and excitement they provide make them a must-have for many water enthusiasts. With their growing popularity, more Australians are turning to jetskis as their next big purchase. - read more
Jet skiing is a thrilling watersport that has become increasingly popular in recent years. If you’re thinking of purchasing a jet ski, you may be wondering how to finance your purchase. There are a few different ways to finance a jet ski, and the best option for you will depend on your individual circumstances. - read more
Knowledgebase
Personal Loan: A Personal Loan is a means of obtaining finance from a financial institution or financial product provider and the lending criteria usually depends on criteria such as personal income and expenses, assets and liabilities, employment status and previo
