FAQs
What qualifications or experience do you have?
I’ve worked in financial advice for nearly two decades, guiding clients through every major life stage – from raising a family and building wealth, to retirement planning and protecting what they’ve worked hard for.
I’m a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®) and hold a Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning (Kaplan Professional), a widely recognised professional standard in financial advice. I also have a Bachelor of Information Technology (Charles Sturt University), which helps me bring a practical, systems-based approach to building clear financial structures and plans.
What type of people or businesses do you typically work best with?
Most of my clients are in their 40s and 50s, and are professionals, business owners and families who want to create more choice in life. They’ve worked hard to build what they have and want to know that effort will give them flexibility, whether that’s cutting back on work, retiring earlier, travelling more, or simply feeling financially secure.
If this sounds like you, get in touch.
However, there are some people that I choose not to work with…
If I can’t clearly see how I can improve someone’s financial position or quality of life, I won’t take them on as a client. I’d rather be upfront and refer them to someone better suited. My reputation and my clients’ outcomes are too important to compromise on fit.
I don’t have a large budget, income or savings. Can you still work with me?
Possibly.
What matters most is your attitude, not your balance sheet. If you’re motivated to make changes and want to build towards more freedom, I’m happy to explore whether I can help.
The Money Clarity Call is designed exactly for that, to see if we’re the right fit and whether I can add real value.
What results have you achieved for clients?
For some, it’s retiring years earlier than expected. For others, it’s finally feeling in control of their cash flow or confident about helping their kids into their first home. Often, the biggest result isn’t a number, it’s the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re on the right track and that work is now a choice, not a necessity.
Read some of my case studies to explore more examples of client results.
Are you able to work with clients in other states or overseas?
Yes. I work with clients all across Australia, and I can also help Australians who are temporarily living or working overseas. Most advice meetings are online, so distance isn’t a barrier.
I prefer meeting face to face where practical – I’m a big believer in shaking a client’s hand – but when that’s not possible, online works well. And if I’m passing through your area on one of my adventures around Australia, I’ll happily catch up in person and say hello.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book directly through my online calendar via the Contact page.
Once you choose a time, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details you need.
What happens in the first meeting or call?
The first step is a free 15-minute Money Clarity Call. I’ll take a look at your situation, listen to what you’re trying to achieve, and let you know honestly if I can make a meaningful difference. If I can, I’ll show you how. If not, I’ll point you to someone who can. Either way, you’ll leave with more clarity than you started with.
What does the first meeting cost?
Your initial appointment with Make Work Optional is complimentary. If you choose to proceed after receiving the Client Agreement, we’ll issue an invoice for your Initial Statement of Advice before we begin. In some cases, fees may be paid from superannuation (subject to eligibility and fund rules).
Fees vary depending on complexity and the work required. You’ll always receive a clear quote and agree to the fee before any fees are incurred – I’d much rather have that conversation upfront than afterwards, so you know exactly what you’re committing to.
How will we usually communicate?
Most meetings are held over Zoom or by phone – whatever suits you best. We’ll also stay in touch by email and through a secure document portal for sharing and signing documents.
If you’re local to Forbes, Parkes or the surrounding areas (including Dubbo, Orange and West Wyalong), we can also arrange to meet in person.
Do I need to move all of my existing arrangements over to you?
Not necessarily. I’m not interested in change for the sake of change. If parts of your current setup are working well, I’ll tell you to keep them. The goal is to make sure everything fits together properly, not to replace what already serves you.
What is Make Work Optional's investment philosophy?
Make Work Optional’s investment philosophy is grounded in evidence, market history, and common sense. Markets move in cycles – that’s normal – but consistently picking the “right” time to buy and sell is incredibly difficult, even for professionals.
Instead, we focus on building a well-diversified portfolio that’s matched to your goals, timeframe, and comfort with volatility. The aim is to stay invested through the ups and downs, manage costs and risk sensibly, and give you the best chance of achieving strong long-term results.
How are investment portfolios implemented?
After a detailed review of your personal circumstances, we construct an investment strategy and a detailed implementation plan for your review and approval.
Our focus is on making sure everything is set up correctly, matches your goals, and stays on track – with a step-by-step approach and regular reviews along the way.
Can you help with Self Managed Super Funds (SMSFs)?
Yes. We offer comprehensive advice and can certainly cover SMSFs. Make Work Optional assists clients to set up or close down SMSFs where appropriate, as well as manage them on an ongoing basis. We also advise on retail super funds, industry funds and small APRA funds.
How do you ensure confidentiality and protect my information?
Your privacy and security are non-negotiable.
All client information is stored securely using encrypted systems, and any documents shared are handled through password-protected portals. I only collect information that’s necessary to provide advice and never share it without your consent.
Have another question?
Get in touch and I’d be more than happy to answer any questions that you may have.