Financial Advice Association Australia has presented awards to the profession’s standout performers.

Melbourne-based Thriving Wealth founder John Cachia took the Zurich-sponsored adviser of the year award; Warr Hunt’s Bianca Musico, also from Melbourne, topped the certified financial planner professional category; and Perth-based Capital Partners was named professional practice of the year.

Zurich Australia head of adviser channel Kieran Forde says Mr Cachia “demonstrated outstanding expertise and commitment to delivering exceptional client outcomes”.

Mr Cachia says the award “strengthens my commitment to continue changing lives and improving financial literacy in Australia however I can”.

Mazi Wealth director Deline Jacovides received the TAL-sponsored inspire women excellence in advice prize; Apt Wealth Partners Melbourne provisional adviser Jakob Ayres took the gen next rising star award; and Emma McKenzie was university student of the year.

FAAA CEO Sarah Abood says the annual awards recognise dedicated advisers who help people achieve better financial outcomes.

The association handed out the awards at its annual congress last week in Brisbane.