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Subject overview


STUDY MODE

100% online

AQF LEVEL

8

NEXT INTAKE

9 Mar 2026

SUBJECT DURATION

12 weeks

SUBJECT FEE

$2,850.00


This subject develops advanced capability in providing professional investment advice in Australia. It covers client objectives and constraints, portfolio construction, asset classes, markets, risk profiling, diversification, and taxation considerations, with an emphasis on integrating behavioural and ethical perspectives.

The subject aligns with the Corporations (relevant providers—education and training standards) determination 2021 (as amended) by contributing to the core knowledge and skills required of financial advisers.

Master of Financial Planning >

Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning >

Graduate Certificate in Financial Planning >

Subject information

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, individuals should be able to:

  • Evaluate the investment advice process in order to meet the client’s investment objectives and constraints.
  • Analyse the relevance of portfolio management theories, frameworks and structures in the provision of effective investment advice.
  • Apply knowledge of asset classes, investment markets and tax considerations in the portfolio construction process.
  • Conduct appropriate quantitative and qualitative research in recommending suitable investment solutions.
  • Construct and evaluate effective investment advice.

Topics covered

  1. Discovery methods: goals, objectives, and values
  2. Client constraints and behavioural influences
  3. Qualitative and quantitative research for client needs
  4. Market efficiency and index investing
  5. Cash flow modelling and retirement adequacy
  6. Portfolio management theories, frameworks, and stress-testing
  7. Critical assessment of advice plans and processes
  8. Integrative capstone: delivering effective investment advice

 

Continuing professional development (CPD)

Kaplan Professional has assessed this subject. Click here for the following CPD hours applicable from 1 January 2019 on successful completion of this course. For subjects or courses completed prior to this date, please contact Kaplan Professional’s CPD Support team on 1300 527 526 or pdmail@kaplan.edu.au.

Reading list

There is no prescribed text for this subject. Individuals are provided with key readings and access to Kaplan Professional’s online databases. Individuals are encouraged to research and read widely on the topic.

Reading list

Assessments

Assessment TypeAssessedWeighting
Quiz 1Week 420%
Assignment 1Week 840%
Assignment 2Week 1240%

Previous study requirements

Assumed knowledge

Course transition subject equivalence

Individuals may not be required to complete this subject if they have transitioned from a SIA/Finsia/Kaplan course and have completed the following subjects:

  • there are no equivalences for this subject.

Key dates

Need to meet the FAS education deadline?

If you are still working towards meeting the FAS education deadline, our limited Intensive Study Period offering can help you achieve this goal sooner without compromising quality or support. Complete one subject (FPC001B–FPC008) in a condensed six-week timeline, with weekly drop-in sessions and tailored study plans to keep you focused.

Whether you are enrolled in our postgraduate financial planning courses or looking to complete a stand-alone bridging subject, this is a flexible option for those who may need it.

Find out more

Summer Intensive 2025

27 Oct 2025 - 5 Dec 2025

❌ Enrolments now closed

Early access opens 13 October 2025

Early access to assessments 13 October 2025

Study period commences 27 October 2025

Enrolments close/census 5 November 2025

Study period ends 5 December 2025

Assessment dates See assessment information

Study Period 6 2025

27 Oct 2025 - 16 Jan 2026

❌ Enrolments now closed

Early access opens 29 September 2025

Early access to assessments 13 October 2025

Study period commences 27 October 2025

Enrolments close/census 12 November 2025

Study period ends 16 January 2026

Assessment dates See assessment information

Study Period 1 2026

12 Jan 2026 - 3 Apr 2026

❌ Enrolments now closed

Early access opens 15 December 2025

Early access to assessments 29 December 2025

Study period commences 12 January 2026

Enrolments close/census 28 January 2026

Study period ends 3 April 2026

Assessment dates See assessment information

SPQ1 Intensive, 2026

12 Jan 2026 - 20 Feb 2026

❌ Enrolments now closed

Early access opens N/A

Early access to assessments N/A

Study period commences 12 January 2025

Enrolments close/census 21 January 2026

Study period ends 20 February 2026

Assessment dates See assessment information

Study Period 2 2026

9 Mar 2026 - 29 May 2026

✓ Enrolments open now

Early access opens 9 February 2026

Early access to assessments 23 February 2026

Study period commences 9 March 2026

Enrolments close/census 25 March 2026

Study period ends 29 May 2026

Assessment dates See assessment information

Study Period 3 2026

4 May 2026 - 24 Jul 2026

✓ Enrolments open now

Early access opens 6 April 2026

Early access to assessments 20 April 2026

Study period commences 4 May 2026

Enrolments close/census 20 May 2026

Study period ends 24 July 2026

Assessment dates See assessment information

Fees and FEE-HELP

Enrolment feesFee
Subject fee 2026$2,850 (GST free)

Note: If this subject is undertaken as a standalone subject, no FEE-HELP is available.

FEE-HELP is available for individuals undertaking this subject as part of a qualification. Click here to find out if you’re eligible.

Click here for a full list of fees and allowances.

Subject enhancements

We are pleased to announce that the following enhancements have been made to this subject:

We’ve replaced static PDFs with engaging, interactive modules that bring the material to life. Explore the quizzes, test your knowledge activities, and scenario-based exercises. Remember to explore all the interactive elements, as each is designed to reinforce key concepts and apply them in practical ways.

Programs you might be interested in

CRS1300149

Master of Financial Planning

A FAS-approved postgraduate qualification at AQF Level 9, developed with input from industry experts. It blends advanced technical rigour with practical, performance-focused learning that is immediately applicable. The course supports pathways to the Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®) and SMSF Specialist Adviser™ (SSA®) designations, while also offering the option to add specialist credentials such as the Accredited Behavioural Finance Professional℠ (ABFP®) and Chartered Retirement Planning Counsellor℠ (CRPC®) to showcase expertise in targeted advice areas.
CRS1200364

Master of Applied Finance

A leading online postgraduate degree for professionals seeking advanced finance expertise. It blends academic rigour with practical, real-world learning that's immediately applicable in the workplace. Designed for both experienced practitioners and career changers, it offers specialisation options and pathways to prestigious credentials such as the CFA®. Ideal for those looking to future-proof their careers in dynamic finance environments.
CRS1200368

Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning

An eight-subject qualification at AQF Level 8, forming the first part of the Master of Financial Planning. FAS-approved and designed as a benchmark qualification, it equipsindividuals with advanced technical capabilities and practical insights to support regulatory obligations and career progression. Individuals can also pursue specialist designations such as the Accredited Behavioural Finance Professional℠ (ABFP®) or Chartered Retirement Planning Counsellor℠ (CRPC®).

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