Financial advice firm Wilsons Advisory has opened up an office in Perth, as the firm seeks to offer specialist corporate advice to the state’s mining and resources companies.
The opening of the office on 4 March will join its existing offices in Queensland, NSW and Victoria.
Heading up the operation is former managing director and head of institutional sales at Euroz Hartleys, Rob Black, who will oversee private wealth advisory, institutional sales and corporate advisory in Western Australia, reporting directly to Wilsons Advisory chief executive Brad Gale.
One reason for the firm exploring opportunities in Western Australia is that it is keen to take advantage of the demand for specialist corporate advice, particularly in mining and resources.
According to the government of Western Australia, mining employed around 135,000 full-time workers in 2023–24, with the majority related to iron ore and gold mines. More than $32 billion was invested in mining and petroleum during the year supported by major LNG projects for Woodside Energy and Shell.
Western Australia makes up 62 per cent of national mining and petroleum investment, and makes up 72 per cent to total new capital expenditure.
Speaking to Money Management, the firm said: “We have a strong track record of working with mining and resources companies, particularly in capital raising, M&A and strategic advisory.
“Our expansion in this space reflects the growing demand for specialist corporate advice, particularly as the sector navigates shifts in global commodities markets, new energy trends and capital flows. We are deepening our relationships and capabilities to better serve companies in this space.
“This sector remains a key pillar of the Australian economy, and we see significant opportunities to support emerging and established mining businesses with tailored financial solutions.”
It also has a strong equity research capability with a dedicated team that covers natural resources companies, including Liontown Resources, Sandfire Resources and Strike Energy, all of which are headquartered in Western Australia.
The knowledge in mining and resources will support existing capabilities in healthcare, life sciences, technology and agribusiness.
Back in January, Perth financial advice firm Wealth Management Partners (WMP) merged with global financial services firm Gallagher. The two firms said this will enhance its service offering on the west coast, where WMP will join Gallagher’s benefit and HR consulting division.
