Our Story

Essential Wealth and Retirement is a professional fee for service financial planning business. We strive to simplify your financial options to ensure that you, as a client, feel comfortable about your present and your future. We do not believe in the concept of “getting rich quick”, although this would be nice, rather we recognise that getting the most out of your finances takes time and, in order to achieve the best results whilst appropriately minimising risk, involves a range of structures and strategies tailored to your individual circumstances and requirements.

We commit to working in partnership with you, and by sharing our experience and expertise, we can walk with you through all aspects of your financial life. Whether you have just started to think about building your wealth; looking to provide financial security for you and your family; beginning to plan for your retirement or endeavouring to protect your retirement lifestyle, we can assist you. At Essential Wealth and Retirement, we recognise that everyone’s situations and goals are unique, which is why we personally tailor your financial solutions to your circumstances. We believe that financial advice should not be complicated, therefore we provide simple, clear and straightforward advice in partnership with our clients. Not only do we make use of our experience and expertise in current financial climates, we are future focused, in order to assist you to build your financial security for decades to come.

Our Team

Colby Atkinson

Colby Atkinson

Financial Adviser

Colby has 8 years of experience and holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Planning and Accounting) as well as qualifications in Mortgage Broking. Colby has worked with clients from many different cultural backgrounds, which has shaped his expertise in holistic advice.

Josh Bareham

Josh Bareham

Financial Adviser

Josh has worked in financial planning industry for more than six years, with a history of specialised advice for medical professionals. Originally hailing from the Sunshine Coast, he completed his Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Financial Planning and Accounting, at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

Srushti Kawat

Srushti Kawat

Advice Associate

Srushti has over 4 years of experience in providing technical assistance to the clients and advisors regarding financial planning. She has completed her Master of Business (Applied Finance) and is on her way to complete her Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning. And she knows 5 languages!

Jenna Bonaccorsi

Jenna Bonaccorsi

Advice Associate

Jenna has a B. Business (Financial Planning & Taxation) from Griffith University, with 3 years experience in a Client Services role. She is driven by a passion for helping people feel more empowered when making financial decisions. She is a member of the FAAA Emerging Professionals Committee.

Will Carrodus

Will Carrodus

Client Services Officer

Will is soon to complete his Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning. After finishing school, he studied Psychology and spent some time working in child safety. Will assists clients with preparing documentation and collecting information to develop their financial plans.

Latika Buffier

Latika Buffier

Client Services Officer

Latika graduated from Griffith University in 2023. She studied for a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Financial Planning. Human Resource Management and Taxation. Latika assists clients with gathering documentation and putting clients' financial plans into action.

Ben Budge

Ben Budge

Director

Ben is passionate about helping his clients achieve their financial goals. Always going above and beyond, he uses his knowledge of real world business, combined with his financial expertise, to enable his clients to reach their financial milestones and enjoy a secure financial future.

Guy Freeman

Guy Freeman

Director

Guy has 20 years of experience in all facets of holistic financial advice and is passionate about providing practical guidance. Guy has founded several of his own financial services businesses. Diploma of Financial Planning, Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning, Self Managed Super Fund accreditation.

Andrew McLauchlan

Andrew McLauchlan

Director & Senior Financial Adviser

With experience in financial services since 1996, Andrew McLauchlan is an expert in tailored strategic solutions.