The Institute of Financial Professionals Australia’s Post

A Night to Remember: Celebrating Excellence at the Inaugural Australian Financial Industry Awards Last night the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney hosted the dazzling inaugural Australian Financial Industry Awards, presented by the Institute of Financial Professionals Australia (IFPA). Celebrating the achievements of outstanding professionals and practices across the financial services sector the event honoured excellence across 18 award categories, recognising professionals and practices in SMSF auditing, bookkeeping, accounting, financial services, and beyond. The evening’s most prestigious accolades recognised: Australian Financial Professional of the Year: Nicola Beswick, who achieved the highest individual score. Australian Financial Practice of the Year: Find Group, awarded for their exemplary group performance. Ky Wilson, IFPA's Acting General Manager and creator and director of the awards program, reflected on the event’s success: "This event has been a labour of love, born out of a desire to recognise and celebrate the exceptional contributions of financial professionals, particularly those in the SME sector. These individuals and practices work tirelessly, often without the advantages of larger firms, and tonight was about giving them the platform and recognition they truly deserve." She continued, "The overwhelming response to our inaugural awards highlights the strength and passion within our industry, and I am proud to have been part of this celebration of excellence." Helen Francis, winner of the Accountant of the Year, remarked: "It’s an honour to receive this recognition among so many accomplished peers. It inspires me to continue striving for excellence with my SME clients." Sam El Shamma, director of Finchley and Kent, winners of Financial Services Practice of the Year: 11 or More Employees, said: "This award is a testament to the dedication and passion of our entire team. To have our hard work recognised in this way is truly rewarding." The evening celebrated not only individual and team excellence but also fostered collaboration and camaraderie across the industry. With the overwhelming success of the inaugural event, the Australian Financial Industry Awards has firmly established itself as the premier event recognising excellence in financial services. Congratulations to all the winners and many thanks to our valued sponsors moneyGPS Inviva PleaseSign AuditSave Pty Ltd 2Bsure Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd OTG Capital Pty Limited Lifestyle Asset Management TAG Financial Services P/L DigitalChameleon.ai