New scholarship targets best financial advice

Improving access to quality financial advice is among the aims of a new $5,000 scholarship.
Improving access to quality financial advice is among the aims of a new $5,000 scholarship.

Griffith University is already the Employer of Choice for Women, and now GriffithBusiness School has partnered with one of Australia’s largest superannuation and retirement businesses, Sunsuper to introduce a $5,000 scholarship to assist women in the financial planning industry.

Anne Fuchs, National Manager of Retail Distribution and Advice at Sunsuper, acknowledged the struggle women faced in regards to juggling home and work life, and said the company was thrilled to join with GBS to create the scholarship.

“Sunsuper is excited to be partnering with Griffith to help a female financial adviser grow and develop her career within the financial advice industry,” she said. “We believe more Australians need to be accessing quality financial advice, and this scholarship is one way we’re helping to achievethat.”

To be in the running for the prize, applicants must be full-time Bachelor of Commerce students majoring in financial planning, who are also working within the industry.

Work experience

Along with the $5,000 towards their studies, the successful student will also be offered either a period of work experience at Sunsuper, or attendance at one of Sunsuper’s professional development days.

Anne Fuchs3“As the breadwinner for our family I understand personally the challenges women face advancing their career, and especially mothers,” Ms Fuchs (left) said.

“I think it’s important to support advancing women into the financial advice profession because we naturally bring a lot of important qualities to the table that will support clients trust and understanding.

“Attributes such as empathy, intuition, understanding of what it’s like to juggle competing priorities and being comfortable having emotional conversations as we know money can make people very emotional,” she explained.

An alumnus of Griffith, Anne Fuchs has remained impressed with the University’s advanced offering in the financial industry.

“As a graduate of Griffith University myself, I applaud the leadership position the University has taken on transforming financial advice into a profession.”

Ms Fuchs said Sunsuper has always been passionate about Australians accessing financial advice and partnering with financial advisers to help them do that.

“This scholarship provides a great way for us to help someone grow within this industry,” Fuchs explained.

For requirements and selection criteria, click here.