Just a few weeks after predicting a $2 million deficit for the 2004 year, the Financial Planning Association (FPA) – the peak body representing planners – has stepped up its activities to get members back on their feet.

Last week the association announced three upcoming events, including its annual conference, a national principals’ forum and a “Financial Planning Week”.

It’s been a troublesome couple of years for the planners. Last year’s Australian Securities and Investments Commission/Australian Consumers’ Association “shadow shopping report” into the industry started the bad times rolling, with more than 50% of the surveyed planners providing inadequate levels of advice.

Then trouble struck again when the FPA overhauled its operations and sacked more than half its staff, including some key management figures.

FPA Conference Committee Chairman Dominic Alafaci says professional development and “better business practice” will be the key themes for the national conference in Sydney in December.

“In addition to professional standards, the focus is on relations with clients and the broader community, business practice issues and compliance, under the new regulatory environment.”

Senator Helen Coonan has been lined up to launch Financial Planning Week, which will take place on May 23-29.

FPA CEO Kerrie Kelly says the week will be utilised to “renew focus in community financial awareness programs”. She says planners will be urged to promote such programs within their communities.