The Financial Services Legislation Amendment Act introduces a new regime for financial advice, including a code of conduct for all advisers.

That includes a requirement that all advisers complete sufficient CPD.

Open Polytechnic said it wanted to help advisers meet that need through its CPD course.

The self-directed course is delivered fully online on iQualify, Open Polytechnic’s online learning platform.

The CPD course covers topics such as registration and dispute resolution; terms and participants in the new financial advice regime; duties and obligations; licensing and enforcement of the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013; the Code of Professional Conduct for Financial Advice Services and good conduct.

Delivery manager Jennifer Lee said the course was timely, especially with the changes to the regulatory standards for giving financial advice.

“Financial advisers are now required to obtain an understanding of the new regulatory framework for financial advice as part of their continuing professional development,” she said.

The online course is designed to allow the learner to work through modules by themselves at their own pace. 

“Financial advisers are busy people and the convenience of being able to upskill and stay up-to-date with changes in the industry without having to take time off work to attend classes is the benefit of being able to study the CPD course online. The learner decides where and when to study at a time that fits around their schedule,” Lee said.

A digital iQualify badge is awarded to learners at the successful completion of the course.