In anticipation of Australia’s 2025 federal election, Money Management has launched an exclusive event series designed to explore how the election outcome could reshape the financial services sector. Titled Election 2025: Future of Finance, the initiative aims to bring together key political, regulatory, and industry voices for in-depth discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing advisers and institutions.
The first of the event series was held in Sydney, drawing a strong turnout from financial advisers, superannuation professionals, and wealth management executives. The event featured a high-level panel discussion that focused on the regulatory landscape, taxation policy, retirement planning, and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) investment trends under various potential government outcomes.
Editor of Money Management, Laura Dew, who moderated the panel, highlighted the importance of industry preparedness in times of political transition. “Our sector is directly impacted by legislative and policy shifts. This platform is about helping professionals make sense of what’s coming and position themselves for success,” Dew said.
Among the notable speakers was Clare O’Neil, Shadow Minister for Financial Services, who outlined her party’s proposed reforms to streamline compliance burdens and support advice accessibility. “We must encourage innovation while ensuring that clients—especially retirees—get the high-quality advice they need,” she said.
Representing the incumbent government, Liberal MP and chair of the Standing Committee on Economics, Tim Wilson, focused on maintaining economic stability and improving digital financial literacy. He defended the government’s record on economic management, stating, “We have kept inflation in check and fostered an environment where investment can thrive.”
The discussion also addressed growing concerns around the Quality of Advice Review implementation and the future of superannuation contributions. Several panellists expressed hope that bipartisan consensus might be achieved on key reforms regardless of who wins the election, citing the sector’s need for long-term policy certainty.
The event served not only as a preview of political platforms but also as a call to action for financial professionals to engage with policymakers and anticipate reforms that could affect their practices and clients. One audience member, a senior adviser from Melbourne, remarked, “We’re not just observers in this process—we have to advocate for the future we want.”
Future sessions in the Election 2025: Future of Finance series will travel to Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth over the coming months, each featuring tailored regional content and a mix of political commentary and practical advice insights. Organizers said the initiative will culminate in a post-election analysis summit, dissecting the election outcome and mapping its impact on financial services.
With the election drawing closer, the financial industry is watching closely, and Money Management‘s timely event series is positioning itself as a key forum for informed debate and strategic foresight.
Source: Money Management Australia
