To get the most out of your financial adviser, be prepared. Gather all the current information you have about your financial circumstances (and your partner’s), including:

• Income: wages, salary, interest, rental income, government benefits and dividends
• Expenses: household budget and expenses (such as food, clothing, telephone, internet and council rates) and lifestyle expenses (such as gym memberships and annual holidays)
• Assets: your home, car or other assets of value
• Debts: mortgage, credit card and loan repayments
• Investments: statements from shareholdings, other investments and bank accounts like term deposits
• Insurance: life, total & permanent disability (TPD), trauma and income protection policies
• Superannuation: annual statements from your fund
• Estate plan: Will and power of attorney
• Professional advisers: your accountant and solicitor