Why an Annual Financial Plan Review Matters
A good financial plan is not a “set and forget” document. It’s a living strategy that should grow with you. It should adjust with changing circumstances. One of the most important steps you can take as an investor, is to avail yourself of strategic plan review benefits annually.
This review helps you track progress toward your goals. It also allows you to affirm that those goals are still right for you. That affirmation will give you peace of mind about your portfolio.
When Should You Review Your Financial Plan?
There’s no single right time to conduct a review. But here are three key times when it makes good sense:
- At the start of a new financial year,
- On the anniversary of your
- initial implementation of your financial plan,
- first review of the plan and the strategy it advises, and/ or
- After any significant life event (planned or unexpected).
Life doesn’t stand still—your plan shouldn’t either.
What Should You Look for in Your Review?
Start by updating your list of assets, liabilities, and income streams. Then revisit your goals:
- Are you still on track to achieve them?
- Are they still relevant to your current circumstances and aspirations?
Some years, your net worth may not grow—and that’s okay. Expenses, market volatility, or other factors can affect short-term progress. The more important consideration is whether your long-term strategy remains effective.
Whether your goals include:
- Achieving financial independence in retirement,
- Assisting your children through school, or
- Funding a dream or a lifestyle change,
…it’s critical to check that your financial plan continues to support your path toward those goals.
The Bigger Picture Matters
None of us can predict the future perfectly. But we can set a direction for it. By thinking ahead and planning thoughtfully, you increase the chance of reaching your desired outcomes.
This is where regular financial reviews are so valuable. They allow you to adapt to life’s changes without losing sight of the bigger picture.
Our Review Process at Continuum Financial Planners
At ContinuumFP, annual financial reviews are central to how we help clients succeed.
Our client services team and advisers guide you through reviewing your strategy, updating your goals, and fine-tuning your investments. We have deep experience supporting clients across a wide range of financial circumstances.
If you’re not already reviewing your plan with us, we invite you to connect. Let’s have a conversation about your financial story, your goals, and your opportunities. (See our contact details at the end of this article.)
Reviewing Your Investment Strategy
A common question we hear is:
“Should I be investing more—or withdrawing from market investments?”
This question is especially common during times of market volatility. The answer depends on your overall financial strategy and personal situation.
It’s particularly important to revisit your investment approach if you are planning a major change in your portfolio.
What Makes a Good Investment Strategy?
A good investment strategy is personal. It reflects your:
- Timeframe for investing,
- Risk profile and comfort with volatility,
- Investment preferences (and values), and
- Specific goals and future needs.
At ContinuumFP, we take the time to build this strategy with you. We research suitable investment options, taking all the above factors into account. We also assist in structuring your investments appropriately—whether through superannuation, personal holdings, or a combination of both.
Timing Matters in Strategy Reviews
When planning a withdrawal or a new investment, timing matters.
Markets are unpredictable. That’s why disciplined approaches, such as dollar-cost averaging (investing smaller amounts at regular intervals), can be effective. Over time, this strategy smooths the impact of market volatility.
It’s less about trying to time the market—and more about maintaining time in the market.
Regular reviews help you stay disciplined and responsive when adjustments are necessary.
Reviews Add Real Value
Annual reviews aren’t just a formality—they are an opportunity. They help you:
- Ensure that your investments continue to match your goals,
- Adjust to life’s changes of personal and financial circumstances, and to
- Stay focused and confident in your strategy.
ContinuumFP Contact details
Your future deserves thoughtful planning—and regular attention. At ContinuumFP, we’re here to guide you through that process every year.
If you’re ready to review your plan, we’re here to help. To arrange a meeting with one of our advisers –
- Phone our office, on 07 3421 3456, or
- At your convenience, use the linked Book a Meeting
(This article was first posted by us in April 2025.)
