More Aussies seeking financial advice

New figures released by the Financial Planning Association (FPA) show the number of Australians seeking financial advice is increasing.

The FPA based its findings on the number of people who used the Find a Planner directory on the association's website, which was launched in 2011.

Over 26,000 Australians used the directory in February this year, which was a 76 per cent increase on January, and a 41 per cent increase on February, 2012.

"The increasing number of those seeking advice is a sign that consumers are looking for the opportunity to find trusted and qualified financial advice from someone in their local area," said FPA chief executive Mark Rantall.

"We continue to support our members in providing profiles on the FPA site so that they are accessible to their communities," Rantall added.

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The Find a Planner feature lists around 7500 FPA practitioner members based around the country, with the ability for consumers to enter their postcode and find a planner in their local area.

The figures come after the launch of an Ask an Expert initiative earlier this year, which encourages consumers to ask questions of financial planners using social media.

Rantall said previous research showed consumers who receive financial advice are financially better off than those without, but that only one in five Australians currently receives advice.

"The FPA is intent on increasing the access to qualified advice to improve the financial futures of all Australians, and the Find a Planner tool is our way of providing Australians with a safe environment to take the first step towards seeking advice," he said.