NAB Financial Planning will support an annual university scholarship and academic research that aids advisers.

The dealer group’s GM Tim Steele says the NAB Future Planners Scholarship aims to promote financial planning as a career path, increase diversity and support professionalism.

“We believe these scholarships and research will not only attract great emerging talent into the industry but ensure more Australians can benefit from advice,” he said.

“By championing research in collaboration with our academic partners, we also hope the insights will be used to improve the work the industry does as a whole and help more Australians access advice.”

The scholarship has been established with four partner universities, and Mr Steele says more are looking to join.

Awarded to students undertaking business-related bachelor degrees majoring in financial planning, the scholarship offers 10 $5000 awards, an invitation to the dealer group’s professional development day and a mentorship with a senior NAB adviser.

In partnership with the Financial Planning Association and the Financial Planning Education Council, NAB Financial Planning will also contribute $10,000 towards academic research that aids the industry.

The research will focus on customer experiences and barriers to seeking advice.

Scholarship recipients will be announced in May.