Testimonials


Find out what our customers are saying about our services

Financial Health Check

In what ways did you find the initial Financial Health Check meeting valuable?

It was difficult to find a financial planner who appeared to be genuinely independent, and we had put off seeing someone because we didn’t want to just ‘be sold a share portfolio scheme’. I am really pleased to say that we found our financial health check to be exactly what we were looking for and we’ll worth it - we were able to model scenarios if we make certain financial decisions like whether we upgrade and buy a new house, or take a different route. Jason’s advice brought up options we hadn’t thought of and really showed what our financial position would be into the future with clarity. Our time was well worth it and we feel much more confident and a sense of relief about choosing between a number of different paths into the future. – D & K, Dandenong North

I’m not overly financially savvy and tend to put my head in the sand when it comes to facing up to my current financial situation. My initial Financial Health Check meeting with Jason showed me exactly that and where I could reasonably expect to be 5, 10 and 15 years. Having the hard cold numbers presented to me was a valuable wake-up call. – P, St Kilda West

Jason provided us with a clear picture of our current financial position and future trajectory, and helped us think through our financial health in a completely new light. Working with Jason helped us reflect upon our financial goals and what money means to us, and think through a path that would help us achieve those goals, all of which we found extremely valuable. – T&J, Yarraville

The Financial Health Check meeting was a very positive experience for Geoff & me. We gained much greater insight about the importance of gaining truly independent advice & the difference this could make to ensuring we have sufficient funds to support our lifestyle for the duration of our lives. Jason explained financial matters in a very understandable way & raised important issues that we hadn’t considered when planning for our retirement. – L&G, Melbourne

It made me feel more at ease about our future. – S, Glen Huntly

Recently we had sold our main residence and were unsure how to move forward with regards to investing so as to ensure a secure financial future . We were adamant that we wanted 100% independent advice. – D, Glen Huntly

Always good to do a current check in on where you are at with all matters financially related. I have done this before a number of times however I found Jasons approach far more holistic covering insurances and estate planning which I'd not thought about before in so much detail. – Z, Brighton

The financial health check was a great introduction to meet Jason and to understand the tools and processes that are used. We were able at the end of the meeting to be confident that there were a number of areas where we would be able to gain considerable financial benefit not only in the short term but also longer term. Jason was able to answer any questions we had in detail and explained clearly Tax implications specifically to Superannuation and retirement. It was obvious that he listens to what you want and structures the meeting based on these requirements. It was great to be able to discuss strategies and for all of our assets, not just our Superannuation funds. – S & T, Eaglemont

I found the Financial Health Check incredibly valuable as it gave me clarity and direction on where I was and what I needed to to do in order to have a secure future. It was not complicated and Jason took the time to explain many different options and strategies to me. – E, Brighton


Would you recommend the Financial Health Check meeting to others? Why?

I would absolutely recommend the financial health check to others - and have already done so as a great opportunity to look forward and be able to make decisions with confidence of having a vision of what the impact of those decisions might be into the future. Also great for getting both partners on the same page if there are two of you. – D & K, Dandenong North

I did quite a bit of looking around to find an independent financial advisor that aligned with my needs and situation and one that I felt could trust. I would definitely recommend Jason to others. – P, St Kilda West

We would absolutely recommend the Financial Health Check to others. It's a great way to get clarity, comfort and direction around your finances; tailored towards your specific needs and goals, and utilising Jason's wealth of financial planning experience and knowledge. – T&J, Yarraville

We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Jason at Think Independent because he is in a position to provide truly independent financial advice based on our circumstances & needs. – L&G, Melbourne

Most certainly, it gives an unbiased view of goals and how you can achieve them. – S, Glen Huntly

Rather than leave advice till nearing retirement I would recommend starting with a plan at an early stage of life. – D, Glen Huntly

Yes, its a good start to understand how to build you plan and what to address. – Z, Brighton

Yes, The retirement modelling tool was particularly helpful to review potential scenarios on the fly and feel confident on which options best suit our financial situation. I have been looking for an "independent financial advisor" who provides advice based on best fit for me rather than being swayed by remuneration from financial institutions. There are very few of truly independent advisors in the industry. – S & T, Eaglemont

Absolutely I would. Jason has a wealth of knowledge, and is a strategic thinker, yet he has the ability to keep things simple, so that you are never overwhelmed. I found Jason to be honest, professional, clear and concise. I will definitely be using Jason for my next phase of my financial plans. – E, Brighton


Other feedback/comments.

Working with Jason was an enjoyable experience, and we got great insight and comfort around our financial future through the Financial Health Check meeting. Highly recommend! – T&J, Yarraville

It was a short time-line from first contacting Think Independent to actually attending the Financial Health Check meeting but despite this we both felt Jason was very well prepared for the meeting and refreshingly lacking in spin during his communication with us. – L&G, Melbourne

Based on our sudden change in circumstances, I think the advice was certainly timely, I am happy that we have progressed and that we are actually following a plan for a positive future. – S, Glen Huntly

Jason's advice was very thorough and detailed , after the initial meeting we were provided with a comprehensive plan for now and the future which we are working our way through in stages. – D, Glen Huntly

I recommend getting a Financial Health Check meeting booked in. It certainly provided me with clarity, new goals and a confidence on what I had to achieve in order to secure my financial future. – E, Brighton

Initial Advice Process

How did proceeding beyond the initial meeting to receiving comprehensive advice on your position help you, either personally and/or financially?

It provided clarity on our current financial position and clearly set out realistic future financial goals and the investment strategy to get us there. It was invaluable having this information comprehensively documented, as we had previously been ambling along financially, without regard for where we were headed. – B & S, Greensborough

The direction that the comprehensive advice has given me is immeasurable, giving me detailed steps I so desperately required to achieve my personal and financial goals for my future stability. – D, Lakes Entrance

Think Independent provided us with an extremely comprehensive report, which addressed in detail all matters discussed during the initial meetings, and mapped out a step by step plan of how to implement any action required to be taken. This report has given us great confidence, knowing a considered and holistic plan for our future is now in place. – R & N, Elwood

After a number of reviews with Jason, my wife and I were in a position where we had a strong long-term view on our financial situation, as well as a clear action plan of what needed to be done in the short term. We are now in a position where we have comfort that our actions today will give is financial security in the long term. – N, North Warrandyte

After taking the time to learn about our current position and financial goals, Jason provided very comprehensive and detailed advice, tailored to our situation. This enabled us to feel confident that our finances were in good hands and that we had a clear path forward to achieving our financial goals. – J&P, Richmond

We were given guidance on what to do to keep our investments in a suitable app. for purposes of taxation, tracking and numerous other speciality functions. Help and/or guidance from Jason was always prompt. – V&G, Bayswater

The financial advice we recieved from Jason was incredibly valuable, leading to us reviewing our superannuation arrangements and putting in place insurance products to protect our income. We felt the advice and follow up actions gave us the peace of mind we needed to start a family and the understanding of our future choices and opportunities for wealth management. – J&I, Pascoe Vale South

I am a 50+ single woman, and like many women my age, have little superannuation. In the year before receiving the comprehensive advice with Jason at Think Independent I had been extremely anxious about my future financial position. The comprehensive advice was just that, comprehensive, as well as realistic and reflective of my age, current financial position and future requirements. Jason showed me what strategies to implement and my future outlook. This gave me peace of mind that I could have a secure future, and immediately lifted a lot of the anxiety I was feeling. – J, Southbank

Helped us understand financial impact of critical life decisions before we make them. – R, Fitzroy

The initial meeting with Jason allowed us to explain our particular situation and what we hoped to achieve. We felt listened to and this clearly occurred once we started to receive more formal advice. It didn't feel rushed and we didn't feel overwhelmed as any complicated matters were clearly explained. The advice we received was extremely detailed and provide us with clear guidance on how to implement strategies which were tailored to our specific needs. This meant we felt confident and comfortable with the recommendations as they were documented and explained in an easy-to-understand manner. – M&A, Eynesbury

Jason worked with us to really understand what was important to us in our lives, and how our financial goals might support that. He also included a range future possibilities to give us an idea of the scope of financial predictions, and plans were made using common-sense assumptions and a balanced risk approach that was well-tailored to our attitudes. He took the time to answer questions and explain the impact that our plans and financial decisions would have on our future. Finally, he directed us to service provider for superannuation, income protection, home loan brokerage and estate planning that were high quality and cost-efficient. – S&S, Clifton Hill

The detailed financial process was great, very comprehensive and Jason could answer any questions I asked, with detail and confidence. It reassured me that I was well on track and whilst there were a few reality checks in there was also some pleasing news such as being able to increase my budget for a home. I really like to action list at the end, made it very clear what needed to be done and by when. – Z, Brighton

The comprehensive advice provided has become our financial plan which is flexible to accommodate any potential changes into our future. – S & T, Eaglemont


Do you feel you received value for money? How?

Yes. The fixed fee structure was one of the main things that attracted us to Think Independent, as it meant we could be sure our adviser was acting in our best interests. Even though their fees aren’t being propped up by commissions, they are very reasonable given both the quality and quantity of work that Jason puts in. – B & S, Greensborough

Absolutely, my Advisor was so easy to communicate with and he “got it” talking through current and future opportunities. I am so appreciative and relieved to know by spending the small amount of time taken to “tick off” my checklist and “make it happen” has given me a real sense that my life in my twilight years will not be such a struggle. The money is well worth the amount of time my Advisor has put in to this – MY comprehensive report. – D, Lakes Entrance

Think Independent invested a considerable amount of time and energy in determining our wants and needs for the future, which enabled them to tailor specific advice for our unique situation. We were extremely impressed with the care and detail that went into this advice, which went above and beyond our expectations given their modest fees. And of course, we keep benefitting from this day in day out as the plan is implemented and returns are realised. – R & N, Elwood

This is an outstanding yes for us. In fact, the recommended changes Jason recommended resulted in a pay back, within 6-9 months. Jason’s fixed-price pricing model – is refreshing and difficult to find in the market. This gave us assurance the there was no motivation to sell us something we did not want. – N, North Warrandyte

We do feel that we have received value for money. Jason is an independent financial advisor, meaning we pay lower premiums for products than we may otherwise. We appreciate knowing we are receiving unbiased advice. Jason is always available to help and provides a very thorough and comprehensive service. – J&P, Richmond

Our fees are now reduced by almost half of what we paid our previous advisor and we now get prompt action – V&G, Bayswater

The advice document is very comprehensive and we have revisited it several times in the years since receiving it, for many reasons. It provides a snapshot of our financial position, choices and forecasts of income which has been useful for decision making. – J&I, Pascoe Vale South

Yes, picks up on things that we miss (hidden additional costs 0.65% on mortgage commission charges), comes up with good questions and suggestions to make life decisions that we would not have otherwise thought of. He's not a salesman; of which we love. – R, Fitzroy

The comprehensive advice showed me key areas that needed to be changed. Some of these were simple things that I knew but had procrastinated on as I wasn’t confident to make the changes. Other things I had not even thought of. Working through the changes has helped me maximize and secure my financial position. I know that leaving everything ‘as is’ would have cost more over the years than the comprehensive advice cost. – J, Southbank

The advice we received was comprehensive and the immediate actions we were able to take meant that we had quickly saved more money than the cost of the advice. Knowing that it was set fee based on independent and unbiased advice gave us confidence that it was advice that was genuine and suited our needs. Jason was also available to answer all the questions we had either in person, on the phone or via email. This made as feel like valued clients. – M&A, Eynesbury

We both felt we received value for money from the Financial Health Check & we left Jason’s office feeling very reassured that we had made the right decision to seek truly independent advice. – L&G, Melbourne

Yes, it has taken a lot of the "Financial Stress" away from our personal relationship. – S, Glen Huntly

Jason's advice is very valuable , a comprehensive report was prepared covering all facets of our life, insurance, superannuation, investing , as well as a detailed explanation of recommendations and implementation timelines. – D, Glen Huntly

Yes, it has paid itself back immediately by restructuring my insurances and super saving me cash. It also will pay itself back multiple times in the future, I'm really clear on the benefits in the longer terms now as Jason demonstrated this to me which helped me shift out of a short term / now view into planning for the future. – Z, Brighton

Yes, It sets the groundwork for a multi year strategy and plan to help secure our retirement with confidence. I have been to several financial planners over the last 15 years and have not been impressed as they appear generally have a pre-defined outcome regardless of your situation or requirements. We have realized Tax savings which have already exceeded the cost and will be considerably more in the future. Overall great value which included highlighting potential personal risks in areas such as Will's, Power of attorney and insurance.– S & T, Eaglemont

Yes, I did as I had a good amount of time with Jason to go through everything, plus Jason sent me a detailed email afterwards outlining our session which I have since reverted back to many times. – E, Brighton


Other feedback/comments.

It doesn’t matter how little you think you might have, by reaching out to a professional who has the insight and knowledge of entitlements and services you may not have realised were out there and pointing you in the right direction and what to consider now and in the future has released and appeased any anxiety I was subconsciously stewing over for quite some years. THANK YOU!! – D, Lakes Entrance

I have no hesitation in recommending Jason and Think Independent to anyone looking for guidance with their estate/finances. In fact, I suggested my parents go and see him, and they too are now loyal Think Independent devotees. – R & N, Elwood

Jason has a fantastic business model, that is refreshing in the Financial Advice industry. I would not hesitate to recommend Jason to friends and family, and expect to have regular checkpoints/reviews in the future. – N, North Warrandyte

Jason is an excellent communicator and listener and really knows how to help his clients think about money and choices in a practical but deep way. He is highly experienced and knowledgeable and really cares about his clients. His commitment to independence is unique and really valuable. – J&I, Pascoe Vale South

I really enjoy working with Jason, he has such a depth of knowledge and is great at articulating the implications and interdependencies of financial decisions on your specific situation. – Z, Brighton

Ongoing Advice & Coaching

How did/does engaging Think Independent for ongoing advice and assistance help your position personally and/or financially?

I was skeptical at first that we’d need ongoing advice in addition to the comprehensive initial report. However, in addition to having Jason on call to bounce thoughts off when required, we find the quarterly reviews invaluable. They provide assurance that when we advise of any change in our circumstances, Jason will work through the financial implications and update his advice accordingly. This provides peace of mind that we’ll never be caught on the hop in any financial matters. – B & S, Greensborough

Engaging Think Independent has provided peace of mind that our finances are in good hands. Financially we feel confident that we have a sensible plan in place to manage our finances and achieve our goals. Personally, it is reassuring knowing that a highly qualified and independent financial advisor is overseeing our finances, and that we have Jason to contact should any questions arise. – J&P, Richmond

We continue to get prompt action on whatever we asked about. – V&G, Bayswater

In short, I trust that he provides sound measured advice within his realm of expertise and clearly articulates when there are questions outside of his expertise but also recommends where we could go for the right advice. I trust that he's in my court and not his. – R, Fitzroy

It sounds like a cliché, but working with Jason in an ongoing capacity has changed my life both financially and personally. Financially there have been some big changes for me in the first six months of working with Jason in the ongoing capacity. I have sorted out my insurances, superannuation and purchased a small house. I didn’t think I could ever afford a house. I know what I need to do in the next few months, and have a good picture of where I’m going. I know that I can have most of what I want in the future, not all at once and not to the level I’d dreamed, but I can have it with some changes to expectations and my financial strategies. I will have more adjustments as I progress through the year and I’m confident that Jason will help me make adjustments to all areas of my finances to reflect the changes that I’ve made. Personally I have a lot more peace of mind and confidence. Previously I had visions of homelessness during retirement and was making myself sick with worry. Although I had spoken to a couple of financial advisors at their initial meetings, I did not have a clear understanding of what to do. I had no confidence to make financial decisions and no trust in financial advisors. Jason has helped me gain security. I am no longer making myself sick worrying. I have peace of mind and I am gaining confidence in my own ability to handle finances (with Jason’s ongoing guidance – I’m not ready to head off myself yet!). – J, Southbank

The ongoing support has been important as it has helped us to implement the recommendations set out in the advice. Putting in place the recommendations takes time and having ongoing support meant that we were guided through every aspect, including the complicated world of insurance and estate planning. It is nice to know that we now have everything in place to secure the financial future of ourselves and our children. – M&A, Eynesbury

Ongoing advice has been useful as our priorities and financial situation change, and the fees charged and more than made up for with the medium and long term benefits. – S&S, Clifton Hill


Other feedback/comments.

Great value for money and a safe and sure pair of hands to help navigate what is an extremely complex area and one that you can’t afford to get wrong. – B & S, Greensborough

Jason is reliable, trustworthy and very responsive. He is a pleasure to work with and we would highly recommend him. – J&P, Richmond

We probably underuse the service but know that if we do need it, it will be forthcoming. Our hidden (or not easily located) fees are now reduced by more than half. This is especially important for our pensions as we cannot top these up due to age limits. – V&G, Bayswater

You are a star. Thanks for being patient with our/my limited ability to process admin and for keeping us honest. – R, Fitzroy

Over the last few years I consulted other financial advisors and was uncomfortable with the advice and the pushiness of the advisor. I didn’t go beyond the initial meetings. Jason at Think Independent inspired confidence and trust from the first meeting. He listened to me, was calm and reassuring and didn’t try to push anything that I felt uncomfortable with. This is why I went from initial meeting to comprehensive advice and then ongoing advice. I really appreciate the way that Jason listened to my needs/wants and how he explains everything to me without being condescending. He initially asked how I wanted information to be presented, and he’s done a great job of using my preferred methods to present information. Having Jason walk me through the various steps has helped me gain confidence and given me peace of mind. – J, Southbank