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Our approach

From the first conversation to the work that follows.

Five steps, with the scope and fees agreed before any advice work begins. You decide which recommendations to act on.

The five advice steps

Tav Palapathwala working through a plan with a client in the office.
  1. Step 1: Introductory call

    Tell us what has prompted you to seek advice. We’ll discuss whether Obsidian can help and explain the next step.

  2. Step 2: Discovery

    We explore your goals and financial position in detail. Together, we establish the questions your advice needs to answer and agree the scope and fees before proceeding.

  3. Step 3: Strategy development

    Tav researches your options and develops the strategy. We consider the costs, risks and trade-offs, then document the recommendations for you.

  4. Step 4: Advice presentation

    We explain the recommendations, work through your questions and refine the plan where needed. You decide which actions to authorise.

  5. Step 5: Implementation and review

    Our team coordinates the approved changes and keeps you updated. If you choose ongoing advice, scheduled reviews help keep the plan relevant as your circumstances change.

Ongoing reviews apply if you choose an ongoing advice agreement. One-off advice is also available. Our Financial Services Guide sets out our services and how we’re paid.

Frequently asked questions

Who do you work with?

We work with professionals, business owners, families and retirees who want a clear plan for their finances. You may be earning more, facing a major decision or looking for a better way to manage what you’ve built.

What happens on the first call?

We discuss what has brought you to Obsidian, the help you’re looking for and whether our services fit. The call is free and takes about 15 minutes. If we can help, we explain the next step. Personal recommendations follow the advice process.

How much does advice cost?

Fees depend on the work involved. We explain the scope and fees before you decide to proceed. Our Financial Services Guide sets out our services and how we’re paid.

Read our Financial Services Guide

Do I need a certain amount invested?

We consider your circumstances, the decisions you face and the value advice could provide. An investment balance alone doesn’t tell the whole story. The introductory call helps us establish whether we’re a suitable fit.

Who will I work with?

Tav leads your research, strategy and advice. Our client service, administration and implementation team supports the work by coordinating documents, following up with providers and keeping you informed.

Can you work with my accountant or lawyer?

Yes. With your permission, we work with your existing professionals where their input is needed. This helps keep financial advice, tax decisions and legal arrangements consistent.

Can you help with retirement as well as building wealth?

Yes. We advise people preparing for retirement and those already retired, including how your super, investments, spending needs and other assets fit together. We also help clients plan well before retirement is close.

Advice for retirees

What happens after the advice is presented?

You decide which recommendations to proceed with. Our team coordinates the authorised changes. Ongoing advice includes scheduled reviews under the agreed service. One-off advice is also available.

How long does the advice process take?

The timing depends on the scope and the information needed. We explain the expected steps after discovery and keep you informed as the work progresses.

Let’s talk about what you want to do next.

Start with the question on your mind. In a free 15-minute call, we’ll discuss your situation, whether we can help and what working together would involve.

Book a call

Prefer to speak with us? Call 1300 029 071.