Duration
Study one unit across a seven-week study period, allowing you to complete your Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning within 16 months. It's recommended that you spend approximately 20 hours per week on your postgraduate study. Our 100% online Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning program allows you to study when it suits you and you are not required to be online at a specific time.
Fees
$25,920 for all 8 units. FEE-HELP is a Commonwealth Government loan scheme that helps eligible full-fee paying students pay all or part of their tuition fees. FEE-HELP is available for this program.
Units
Study one unit each seven-week study period with our multi-award-winning Block Model. Assessments are delivered at the same time each study period, allowing for deep and focused learning.
Study intakes
There are six study periods each year, allowing you to begin your Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at the start of any study period. You will study one unit at a time over the seven-week study period. If required, you are able to skip a study period.
July, Aug, Oct
Why study the Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning Online?
Award-winning VU Block Model®
Our postgraduate online Block Model has won consecutive LearnX Live! Awards for ‘Best Online Learning Model’. With VU Online you can have a consistent, manageable and connected online learning experience. Earn your Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning faster than on-campus, with our unique study model.
Stay competitive in your field
The Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning is a FAS-approved course, making it a recognised pathway towards becoming a registered financial planner. Graduates will satisfy the education standards prescribed by FAS to be able to provide financial advice in Australia, subject to meeting other registration requirements prescribed by FAS (including completion of a Professional Year for Provisional Relevant Providers and passing a National Adviser Exam).
Support 7 days a week and in the evenings
Get the support you need, when you need it, during your course. Our support network has a single focus on ensuring you are entirely supported to succeed.
Overview
Everyone needs a financial plan. For some, it’s to achieve the dreams of tomorrow. For others, it’s to make the most of what they’ve got, today.
The world of finance is constantly changing and the demand for qualified financial planners is growing.
Whether you are currently a financial planner looking to upgrade your qualifications, or you want to pivot to a new career in the world of finance, VU Online will help you achieve your goals.
Our courses are delivered 100% online and have been designed with a student-centred approach that features engaging activities and self-determined assessments, with no textbooks to purchase.
Plan for success with VU Online.
VU Online’s Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning is suitable for both currently practicing financial planners and those who wish to enter the field.
After completing the Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning, you will have the skills and knowledge to succeed in a variety of specialised roles within the industry. This can include roles such as:
- Financial adviser
- Financial planner
- Insurance adviser
- Superannuation consultant
- Risk adviser
- Business development manager
- Client service officer
You may also choose to continue your studies and complete your Master of Financial Planning, helping you stand out as an expert financial planner.
What you will study
This unit applies risk management knowledge and methodologies to the protection and distribution of wealth with effective personal insurances and estate planning. Analysis and exploration of the insurance policies and risk management products is undertaken and matched to the spectrum of client situations in the process of constructing insurance planning advice. The concept of protecting wealth is expanded to include a strong awareness of the role of estate planning. Applications of related law and compliance are built into practical client situations and a Statement of Advice, with insurance and estate planning advice recommendations will be undertaken. Professional skills including negotiating insurance analysis outcomes against costs, succession planning challenges and interpersonal skills related to difficult estate planning conversations, are given attention via podcast interviews with practitioners, structured discussions and metacognitive interactions.
In this unit students will critically review superannuation and retirement planning trends, compare superannuation and self-managed superannuation funds with non-superannuation options, and role play the presentation of retirement planning advice to a mock client. Technical knowledge of superannuation, related tax legislation, building retirement capital, income stream options and social security will be applied to client scenarios and modelled using financial planning software and tools. Client communication skills will be applied to negotiating retirement planning preparation and problems. Professional skills including business awareness and interpersonal skills are given attention via podcast interviews with practitioners, structured discussion and metacognitive interaction.
The unit combines the higher-order responsibilities and legislative framework governing the provision of financial planning advice with the principles and functions of investing in financial markets. Matters, such as compliance and the relational role of the financial advisor are placed in the context of assessing client investment risk and defending a best-interest, multi-asset portfolio as part of a client’s financial plan. Lessons from economic events and the impact of financial advice failures provide a backdrop to a range of activities including managed fund research, aligning client risk profiles and preferences with investment choices and borrowing strategies for investing. Professional skills including interpersonal skills are given attention via podcast interviews with practitioners, structured discussion and metacognitive interaction to develop the narratives associated with informing clients of risk, returns, costs and benefits of investing.
In this unit, students will acquire technical and working knowledge of the key provisions of Australian Tax Law and apply to a range of problems to determine taxation consequences. Comparisons of tax implications relating to business, individuals and trusts will be undertaken along with research and analysis to develop strategic tax planning solutions. Case scenarios will be employed to develop the students’ understanding of tax avoidance legislation and awareness of the consequences of tax avoidance and their ability to construct tax recommendations and explicate the consequences of unresolved tax problems. Professional skills including business awareness, obligations of the TPB and interpersonal skills related to presenting tax advice are given attention via podcast interviews with practitioners, structured discussion and metacognitive interaction.
This unit aligns to the knowledge requirements of the Tax Practitioners Board.
This unit will explore the ethical and professional capacities required of financial planning advisers.
This unit will examine the Australian legal system, contract and commercial law and significant elements of Corporations Law related to the licensing requirements of a financial planner and the provision of financial planning advice. The unit has a strong focus on practical applications and uses relevant case law to contextualise the law for financial planning professionals. Professional skills including negotiating on commercial law matters are given attention via podcast interviews with practitioners, structured discussion and metacognitive interaction.
This unit will contextualise behavioural finance theory to the practise of professional financial planning. Established and contemporary research will be explored to build deeper understanding of the motivations, fears, preferences, decision-making biases of clients and advisers. Behavioural finance theories will be used to learn communication techniques, negotiate client uncertainties, manage the ongoing client-adviser relationship and client literacy and financial literacy. Extending this, is an examination of efficient market theory to develop understanding of the irrationalities of investor behaviour and how it applies to client investment planning. The psychology of client engagement will be combined with behavioural finance to build interpersonal skills that empower client engagement and better negotiation of conflict. The content is supported by podcast interviews with practitioners, structured discussion and metacognitive interaction.
This capstone unit applies prior knowledge to all elements of the financial planning process including conducting an initial client interview, planning and constructing a full statement of advice and presenting a financial plan to a client. There is a higher-order focus on written and presentation communication aimed at building and managing the client relationship, as well as meet industry standards and expectations of professional financial planning advice. Professional skills including leadership and interpersonal skills, are given attention via podcast interviews with practitioners, structured discussion and metacognitive interaction.
Entry requirements
When you apply to study with VU, we’ll take into consideration your prior study, work experience and current skills. If eligible, you can also apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), so you can make your next career move even sooner.
- Completion of an Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a similar discipline; OR
- Completion of an Australian Graduate Certificate (or equivalent) in a similar discipline; OR
- Applicants with a minimum five (5) years approved work experience will be considered for admission to this course.
Fees & FEE-HELP
A Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning from VU Online costs $3,240 per unit*, taking the total for 8 units to $25,920*.
This depends on the number of units you study and whether you are eligible for Advanced Standing, which is assessed after you submit your application.
15% discount for FAAA Members
Provide your active membership number to your VU Online Student Enrolment Advisor when you enrol.
10% discount for alumni
If you’ve previously completed a qualification with us (and didn't apply through an agent), you may be eligible for a 10% discount.
Note that you may be eligible for the Australian Government’s loan scheme, FEE-HELP. The loans are available to assist eligible full-fee paying students with the cost of a university program. It can be used for all or part of the tuition. To determine your eligibility, visit the FEE-HELP website.
If you are a member of FAAA, you may be eligible for a 15% discount on some or all of your units. To find out more, speak to one of our Student Enrolment Advisors.
*2027 student fees are shown and are subject to change.
For more information on fees and student support, download a brochure.
Want to learn more about this course?
What our students say
I am receiving a lot of support from my facilitators and my Student Success Advisor, who boosts my confidence and self-esteem.
What our students say
It was personally satisfying connecting and collaborating with a range of industry professionals. Many have become valuable work contacts, some even lifelong friends and career mentors.
What our students say
The flexibility, relevance and opportunity that VU Online brings to higher education are testaments to excellence in teaching and learning.
Frequently asked questions
The Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning is a FAS-approved course, making it a recognised pathway towards becoming a registered financial planner. Graduates will satisfy the education standards prescribed by FAS to be able to provide financial advice in Australia, subject to meeting other registration requirements prescribed by FAS (including completion of a Professional Year for Provisional Relevant Providers and passing a National Adviser Exam).
The units 'Taxation Law (Bridging)' and 'Financial Advice Corporation and Commercial Law (Bridging)' include one invigilated exam each. The remaining ten units do not include exams, but do include other assessments. Please note, from January 1 2022, financial advisers who are 'existing providers' or new financial advisers must pass an exam administered by ASIC.
Students will need to use XPlan/Iress while studying this degree. Free access to this software will be provided by VU Online.
Units in our Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning cost $2,800 each. Our Master of Financial Planning includes an additional four units that cost $3,800 each.
A graduate diploma in financial planning is a postgraduate qualification designed to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in providing financial advice. It typically covers areas such as investment strategies, superannuation, retirement planning, ethics, and regulatory requirements, preparing graduates to work in professional financial planning roles. A financial planning diploma sits between a graduate certificate and a master’s degree in terms of depth and scope, making it suitable for those seeking a comprehensive yet focused qualification.
The Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at VU Online provides an in-depth academic pathway for professionals looking to build or formalise expertise in financial planning, aligned with contemporary industry expectations.
No, a graduate diploma is not the same as a master’s degree. A graduate diploma is a postgraduate qualification that offers advanced coursework but usually involves fewer subjects and a shorter study duration than a master’s degree. It’s often chosen by professionals who want substantial upskilling without committing to a full master’s program.
The Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at Victoria University Online delivers advanced financial planning knowledge and may also provide a pathway into further postgraduate study, depending on your career goals.
A diploma in financial planning can support roles such as financial planner, associate adviser, paraplanner, or financial advice support roles within banks, advisory firms, and wealth management organisations. Graduates may also work in client relationship, compliance, or strategy-focused roles depending on their experience and professional pathway.
The Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at VU Online prepares students with the technical and professional skills needed to work across a range of financial planning and advisory environments.
Becoming a chartered or certified financial planner generally involves completing an approved academic qualification, gaining relevant professional experience, and meeting the requirements of the relevant professional body. This pathway ensures advisers meet high standards of ethics, technical knowledge, and professional conduct.
The Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning Online at VU Online provides a strong academic foundation that supports progression toward professional recognition when combined with industry experience and certification requirements.
A financial planner works with individuals and families to help them achieve their financial goals. This includes developing strategies for budgeting, investing, retirement planning, insurance, and wealth management, as well as providing ongoing advice as circumstances change. Financial planners combine technical expertise with strong communication skills to guide clients through complex financial decisions.
Through the Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning, VU Online equips students with the knowledge required to deliver professional, client-focused financial advice in a regulated environment.
Yes, financial planners continue to be in demand in Australia as individuals seek professional guidance on managing wealth, planning for retirement, and navigating increasingly complex financial regulations. Higher education and professional standards have increased the need for well-qualified advisers with strong academic credentials.
The Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at VU Online aligns with this demand by developing skills that meet contemporary industry and regulatory expectations.
The CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) and CFP (Certified Financial Planner) designations serve different career paths. The CFA is focused on investment analysis, portfolio management, and financial markets, while the CFP is centred on holistic financial planning, client advice, and personal financial strategies. Each credential supports different professional goals within the finance sector.
Academic qualifications such as the Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at VU Online support the CFP pathway by building the broad financial planning knowledge required for professional practice.
Yes, a CFP-qualified professional can assist with investment management as part of a broader financial planning strategy. This includes helping clients make informed investment decisions that align with their goals, risk tolerance, and time horizons, while integrating investments into an overall financial plan.
The Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at VU Online develops the technical and strategic knowledge needed to support investment decision-making within a comprehensive advice framework.
To become a financial adviser in Australia, you generally need to complete an approved academic qualification, meet professional and ethical standards, and undertake ongoing professional development. Qualifications may include postgraduate study such as a financial planning diploma, graduate certificate of financial planning, or advanced degrees, depending on your career stage and goals.
The Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning at VU Online provides a recognised postgraduate pathway for those seeking to meet educational requirements and build a professional career in financial advice.
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