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Upcoming webinar

Protecting dignity - the adviser’s role in preventing elder abuse

Thursday 18 September 2025

12:00pm-1:00pm (AEST)

Up to 1 CPD hour available 

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Session Overview

Elder abuse is a growing concern in our ageing society—and financial abuse is one of the most common forms it takes. Often perpetrated by those in a position of trust, it can present as subtle manipulation, undue influence, or even the complete loss of financial autonomy. As a financial adviser, you are in a critical position to recognise when something isn’t quite right.

This session explores how elder abuse can unfold within financial planning relationships, often hidden beneath the surface of well-meaning family involvement. You’ll learn how to identify the signs of diminishing capacity, undue influence, misuse of Enduring Powers of Attorney, and other red flags. Importantly, you’ll also explore how to adjust your advice process to preserve dignity, autonomy, and voice for older clients—especially in the face of family pressure.

Whether you work regularly with retirees, aged care clients, or families navigating complex transitions, this session will equip you to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and protect those most vulnerable to abuse.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the forms and prevalence of elder abuse, with a focus on financial abuse and its intersection with cognitive decline and dependency.
  • Recognise common red flags of undue influence, coercion, and misuse of legal tools such as Enduring Powers of Attorney.
  • Learn how to differentiate between supportive family involvement and controlling or exploitative behaviour.
  • Develop strategies to safeguard older clients’ dignity and autonomy while meeting best interest and ethical obligations.
  • Gain practical tools for adjusting the advice process—such as who’s in the room, documentation, and referral pathways—to reduce risk and respond appropriately when concerns arise.

This session supports advisers in creating safer, more ethical advice practices for clients facing vulnerability due to age or capacity concerns.

Meet your speakers

Amanda Cassar

Adviser and Director, Wealth Planning Partners

Amanda Cassar is a globally recognized financial expert, author, and advocate for vulnerable clients. As the founder of two thriving businesses and the creator of the Financial Abuse Specialist™ course, Amanda has equipped professionals worldwide with tools to combat financial abuse and empower clients.

Amanda’s professional journey is rooted in her passion for financial well-being. Her book, Financial Secrets Revealed, and podcast of the same name provide practical advice to individuals striving for financial security. A proud member of MDRT, she is a sought-after speaker who transforms complex topics into relatable and impactful lessons.

Amanda’s work extends beyond boardrooms. She has volunteered with organizations like The Hunger Project and Hands Across the Water, sharing stories of resilience that inspire audiences to act. Through her leadership, audiences leave with strategies to build trust, protect the vulnerable, and create lasting change.

Whether addressing global conferences or intimate workshops, Amanda’s engaging style, professional insights, and personal experiences make her a speaker who not only educates but leaves a lasting impact.

Michael de Haan

Director, Quantum Leap Global

Michael de Haan brings over 25 years of financial planning expertise, now channelling his knowledge as a certified money coach and accredited Financial Abuse Specialist. Recognized as Australia’s ambassador for financial abuse awareness by Standards International Inc., Michael is committed to illuminating the often-overlooked issue of financial abuse. He focuses on educating financial service providers to identify and support victims effectively. Through his work, Michael empowers individuals to recognize signs of financial control, offering pathways to rebuild their financial independence and break free from abusive relationships.