Link Wealth develops school program to address financial literacy gap

In an effort to address the financial advice sector’s talent shortage and the growing financial literacy gap, financial advice practice, Link Wealth, has developed a new workshop program targeted towards year 10 to 12 students.

The firm said the ‘Beyond Schools’ program was a reflection of their goal to “inspire the next generation of advisers and improve financial outcomes for young Australians”.

Set-up like a workshop and already having worked with over 300 years, the initiative seeks to arm students with the financial skills that are “critical” to adulthood, including budgeting, superannuation, debt, investment and savings.

“The adviser shortage is real, and it’s not going to fix itself,” Josh Lee, Director of Link Wealth and leader of the program, said.

“We need to be proactive in showing young people that being a financial adviser is not just a job – it’s a profession where you can have a real impact on people’s lives.

“For many students, this is the first time they’ve had someone explain how money actually works. I want them to leave the room not only feeling more confident about managing their own finances but also realising that financial advice is a career where you can make a real difference.”

The program also took inspiration from Lee’s own experiences with personal finance and understanding the value of financial advice.

“Students need to see that it’s okay to not have it all figured out yet. My story shows that you don’t have to follow a straight path to find a meaningful and rewarding career,” he said.

“Financial advice isn’t just about spreadsheets; it’s about helping people live better lives.”

Link Wealth said it intends to grow the program with more schools around Australia over the next year and beyond.