Useful contacts
General investment advice and financial planning
Financial Planning Association
The Financial Planning Association (FPA) is the association for the financial planning industry in Australia. The FPA website includes some valuable information about the basics of investing.
Centrelink's Financial Information Services
You can use the Financial Information Service at Centrelink regardless of your age or whether you receive, or will ever receive, a Centrelink payment. They offer free and independent financial information and are a good place to visit first if you are just starting to think about your financial options and financial planning. You can:
- have a confidential interview by phoning 13 2300 and making an appointment. At the interview, you may discuss any financial issues and options you wish to explore.
- attend one of their financial and lifestyle seminars or workshops by phoning 13 6357. Watch you local newspaper for advertisements for these.
- read their fact sheets which are available on the Centrelink website. You can also get copies of these by phoning 13 2300.
For more information visit Centrelink's Financial Information Service website. For information in languages other than English, phone 13 1202.
National Information Centre on Retirement Investments, NICRI
Do you have modest savings and are investing for your retirement? Are you facing redundancy? You can get free, independent and confidential advice by:
- phoning NICRI's information service which is available between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday on freecall 1800 020 110. Email nicri@nicri.org.au
- visiting the NICRI website or phoning 1800 020 110 for copies of their information leaflets.
Investment and Financial Services Association of Australia, IFSA
Australian Investors’ Association
US Securities Exchange Commission
Although the information is designed for the American consumer, there is an excellent interactive program dealing with the steps to take in order to become a smart saver and investor. The common sense advice contained in this website crosses all national boundaries.
Financial media
There are a number of commercial television shows and magazines in Australia which provide information about financial planning and lifestyle issues like family budgeting. The major ones all have their own websites. Although they are commercial sites, they do contain useful information for the consumer interested in increasing their knowledge about investments.
Fund managers
Many fund managers, insurance companies and banks have their own websites. Although they are primarily designed to promote the company’s own products and services, many of them also contain useful information about general investment matters and are worth a look.
Shares
Australian Shareholders’ Association
Australian Securities Exchange
In addition to providing information about individual listed companies, their website includes an extensive information package on how the Exchange works, and an interactive teaching program about investing on the Exchange.
Futures
Sydney Securities Exchange (incorporating the Sydney Futures Exchange)
Financial services
Financial Services Ombudsman
Banking
Banking and Financial Services Ombudsman
Insurance
Financial Industry Complaints Service Ltd
Insurance Ombudsman Service Ltd
Financial Ombudsman Service (incorporating Insurance Brokers’ Dispute Limited)
Investor relations
Australasian Investor Relations Association
AIRA's aim is to foster best practice and enhance ethical and professional standards in investor relations.
Consumer protection
Consumer and business directory - contact details for organisations that provide assistance or advice to consumers and small businesses.
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission
Choice
Consumers’ Federation of Australia, CFA
CFA is the national peak body for consumer groups in Australia. CFA's 95 members include legal centres, health rights groups, local consumer organisations and public interest bodies. CFA's role is to put the view of its member organisations to government and industry and advocate on behalf of consumers. CFA's focus is primarily on advancing the interests of low income and vulnerable consumers. Email them at info@consumersfederation.org.au or visit their website.
State and Territory Offices of Consumer Affairs and Fair Trading (State government consumer agencies)
Personal support
A major financial loss from a scam or bad investment or the financial disruption from a relationship breakdown can take an emotional toll. If you need support and guidance, see our list of financial support and counselling services.
Privacy
For information on how financial institutions and other companies must protect your personal information go to the website of the Australian Privacy Commissioner.
Taxation and social security
Australian Taxation Office
General enquiries 132 861
Superannuation Helpline 131 020
Centrelink (Social security)
132 300
FIDO Website: Printed 03/17/2010
