Frequently Asked Questions

At Interwest, we operate on a clear fee-for-service basis to ensure full transparency and accountability. This means that the fee we charge will always be disclosed to you at the earliest possible opportunity, so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins. No advice or service will commence until we have your express agreement and consent, giving you complete control and confidence in the process. In some cases, clients may also have the option of having the agreed fee debited directly from their superannuation account, making payment more convenient and manageable. Our approach is designed to provide clarity, peace of mind, and a professional service tailored to your best interests.

The Value of Advice

We believe that full disclosure and complete transparency of any fees is essential to building genuine trust and long-lasting relationships with our clients. When you work with Interwest, you can be confident that you will always understand how our services are charged and exactly what you are paying for.

Interwest operates on a clear “fee for advice” structure. Unlike some advisers, we do not receive commissions or hidden payments from your superannuation or investment portfolios. This means that our recommendations are made solely with your best interests in mind, without influence or bias. Our advice is designed to be straightforward, objective, and aligned with your personal goals.

By staying true to our company values, this fee structure allows us to provide tailored strategies that are appropriate to your circumstances and explained in the clearest way possible. It also gives you the confidence that the guidance you receive is genuinely focused on helping you achieve financial security and peace of mind. At Interwest, we see financial advice not just as numbers on a page, but as a trusted partnership to support you at every stage of life.

The goal of the first meeting is to understand your unique circumstances and determine how we can best assist you. A relationship with a financial planner is a two-way street, so it’s essential for both you and your planner to establish trust, open communication, and honesty from the very beginning. This foundation allows us to provide advice that is truly tailored to your needs and goals.

An initial consultation typically lasts between 1-2 hours, giving us enough time to discuss your current financial situation, explore your objectives, and answer any questions you may have about the process or our approach.

The world, news, and financial markets are unpredictable and constantly changing. Volatility and short-term market losses are a normal part of a long-term investment plan. Investors can get understandably nervous and concerned about the fall in the value of their investments. When emotions take charge, it’s important to avoid falling into some of the traps that appear when markets are unpredictable like selling out of growth assets (shares) and moving to cash or a term deposit. This action can lock in a loss as the shares are sold converted to cash with no chance to recover the lost capital.

In times of volatility, you will have access to your planner to help understand what is happening and why, and the correct course of action to take. This will provide peace of mind in an uncertain world.