SMSF and retirement advice for pre-retirees and high-net-worth Australians — self-licensed, fee-for-service, entirely on your side.
"Advice the way it should be — completely, unconditionally on your side."
Wealth Designers Advisory was established with a deliberate purpose: to deliver financial advice without the conflicts that come with bank or institutionally-owned advisory groups. We hold our own AFSL — which means the only agenda at the table is yours.
Our founder Troy Gudgeon brings over 20 years of financial planning experience, a Master's degree, and the SMSF Specialist Advisor™ designation to every client relationship. The firm specialises in the most consequential phase of the financial lifecycle — the transition into retirement.
Whether you're five years from your target date or already in retirement, we build strategies that are precise, personalised, and built to last.
We hold AFSL 562647 directly — no dealer group, no bank ownership, no product quotas. Every recommendation is driven solely by what's right for you.
Master of Financial Planning, GradDipFinPlan, SMSF Specialist Advisor™ designation, and 20+ years advising pre-retirees and high-net-worth Australians through every market cycle.
We deliberately limit client numbers so every family receives the attention they deserve — not an 1800 number and a call centre. You'll always speak directly with Troy.
Over 300 Australian families have trusted us with their retirement. Our longest client relationships span 15+ years — because when advice works, you stay.
Every service delivered personally, under a fiduciary obligation to act in your best interests — without exception.
Designing the transition from accumulation to income — structuring your super, investments, and cashflow so your wealth works as hard as you did.
What's IncludedMaximising contributions, managing tax, and sequencing income through concessional strategies, pension accounts, and transition to retirement structures.
What's IncludedSpecialist SSA™-designated guidance on establishing, structuring, and governing your self-managed super fund for control, flexibility, and tax efficiency.
What's IncludedBuilding risk-appropriate, diversified investment portfolios on leading platforms — tailored to your goals and timeline, not a product shelf.
What's IncludedReviewing and structuring life, TPD, income protection, and trauma coverage to protect the wealth you've built and the life it supports.
What's IncludedCoordinating with your legal and accounting team to ensure your wealth passes efficiently — minimising tax and protecting your legacy.
What's Included"It has been our absolute pleasure to have Troy as our financial advisor for approximately 11 years. Troy has consistently demonstrated diligence, professionalism, and a wealth of knowledge. He is not only a true professional but also a gentleman we regard as both adviser and friend."
Approaching the transition. Timing and structure matter enormously. Super is significant. Let's plan it properly.
What We Focus OnComplex affairs requiring holistic strategy across super, investments, structures, and tax.
What We Focus OnExtracting business wealth while building personal financial security outside it.
What We Focus OnManaging drawdown, preserving capital, and adapting strategy across the retirement decades.
What We Focus OnOur clients come to us at a pivotal point — typically within five to ten years of retirement, or freshly into it. They have worked hard, made smart decisions, and built meaningful wealth. Now they want clarity, confidence, and a plan that reflects the life they've earned.
We work with a select number of families and invest serious time in each relationship. If you're looking for transactional or volume-based advice, there are lower-cost options available. If you want an adviser who will know your situation deeply, tell you the truth, and build a plan that genuinely reflects your life — we should talk.
Access to the full spectrum of wrap accounts, super funds, and investment managers — so your strategy is never limited by the shelf.
"Your wealth is the product of decades of work, discipline, and sacrifice. The advice you receive should reflect the weight of that."
We believe financial planning is one of the most personal professional relationships you can have. It demands expertise, honesty, and genuine commitment. We don't take that lightly.
Our own AFSL means no product quotas, no ownership conflicts, and no institutional agenda. Your interest is the only one that matters.
We explain everything in plain language. You should understand your plan — not just sign it.
Our best client relationships span decades. We grow with you, adapt with you, and stay the course with you.
A 30-minute no-obligation conversation to understand your situation and explore the fit. We talk through where you are, where you'd like to be, and whether our practice is the right home for you.
We gather the full picture — assets, income, goals, risk tolerance, timeline, and life circumstances — through structured consultation. Usually 60–90 minutes, in person or by video.
Your personalised SOA is prepared with clear recommendations, modelled outcomes, fee disclosure, and the reasoning behind every choice. We walk you through it in detail before you commit to anything.
We execute the plan — investment account openings, super rollovers, insurance applications, contribution strategy — managing every detail on your behalf. You don't fill out forms.
Annual reviews and proactive communication ensure your plan evolves with your life and the markets. Many of our client relationships have run for 15+ years.
Based on the 2024 Russell Investments Value of an Adviser Study.
Avoiding the costly timing mistakes — buying after rises, selling during volatility, reacting to headlines.
Aligning wealth with life — insurance, estate, retirement modelling, intergenerational strategy.
Reducing lifetime tax through structure, sequencing, and contribution timing — not just this year's deductions.
Maintaining alignment with your strategy — about risk control, not predicting markets.
"That figure is not about stock picking. It reflects behavioural discipline, tax efficiency, structural planning, and consistent portfolio management."
With over 20 years in financial planning, a Master of Financial Planning from Kaplan Professional, and the SMSF Specialist Advisor™ designation, Troy brings deep technical expertise and genuine personal commitment to every client relationship.
Troy established Wealth Designers Advisory under its own AFSL specifically to remove institutional conflicts of interest — so that every recommendation made is based solely on what is right for the client in front of him.
Specialising in the retirement transition phase, Troy's practice centres on helping pre-retirees and high-net-worth Australians move into retirement with clarity, confidence, and a plan they truly understand and believe in.
"It has been our absolute pleasure to have Troy as our financial advisor for approximately 11 years. Troy has consistently demonstrated diligence, professionalism, and a wealth of knowledge. He is not only a true professional but also a gentleman we regard as both adviser and friend."
"Troy made me feel comfortable and explained my options clearly and simply. He had a detailed and thorough approach to planning, worked with my preferences whilst presenting pros and cons. He saved me money and put a strategy in place I am happy and confident with."
"Working with Troy has been a game-changer for my financial future. His expertise and personalised approach made me feel confident and secure. He crafted a comprehensive plan that aligns perfectly with my needs."
"Troy was great in explaining everything in a way I could understand. He was very patient — this was the first time I have ever sought help managing my finances. He is very approachable, transparent, and quite knowledgeable. I have recommended him to several friends."
"We are very fortunate to have Troy Gudgeon as our financial adviser. He is very informative and explains things in a manner we can understand clearly. Troy takes an interest in our family too. I would certainly recommend Troy to family members and friends."
"Troy was able to communicate complex financial information in a way that made it easy for me to understand. He also understood my priority for ethical investments at a level of risk that I am very comfortable with."
"We feel very confident with Troy's advice and are happy with his management of our funds. We have already recommended his company to our friends and family."
"Troy is informed, accommodating and patient. All that one needs to explain and manage something as important as super."
"Troy is pleasant to deal with and knowledgeable about the business he is in and imparts confidence."
"Very professional and took the time to make sure I understood the products and services."
"Happy with the service provided so far."
"Troy undertook the challenge of my chaotic financial affairs with a confident and measured approach. He exhibits a very good understanding of matters of finance. In a quiet way he guides towards sensible outcomes. I would happily recommend Troy's services."
At Wealth Designers Advisory, we construct and manage portfolios by identifying the right opportunities for your circumstances whilst actively managing the inherent risks that come with investing. We work with individuals, families and business owners to deliver solutions that preserve, grow and protect your wealth across every stage of life.
We draw on institutional-grade research and a wide network of fund managers, platform providers and asset classes to build strategies that genuinely suit your objectives — not a restricted product list.
Holding our own AFSL means we have no product quotas, no revenue-sharing arrangements and no house view to push. Every recommendation is made solely in your best interest.
Whether you prefer greater involvement or a fully delegated approach, we implement a disciplined investment process for every client — grounded in risk profiling, strategic asset allocation and ongoing review.
We assess your personal circumstances, risk tolerance and long-term goals to determine the right strategy for you. Every portfolio we build is personalised and designed to reflect your values and aspirations.
We advise across the following asset classes and investment solutions to construct personalised portfolios — whatever your stage of life.
Direct ASX-listed shares and domestic equity strategies for capital growth and franked income.
Part-ownership of companies listed on the ASX. You earn returns through dividends (often franked) and capital growth over time.
Global equity exposure across US, European, Asian and emerging market opportunities.
Part-ownership of companies listed on overseas exchanges — US, Europe, Asia and emerging markets — accessed via direct shares, managed funds or ETFs.
Curated access to institutional fund managers across all asset classes and investment styles.
A pooled investment — you and many other investors give money to a professional fund manager who invests across many assets on your behalf.
Low-cost, diversified ETF portfolios for broad market exposure and thematic strategies.
Like a managed fund, but trades on the ASX like a single share. Most ETFs simply track an index (e.g. the ASX 200 or S&P 500).
Government and corporate bonds, term deposits and fixed income strategies for capital stability.
A loan you make to a government or company. In return you receive regular interest payments, and your money back at the end of the term.
Separately managed account portfolios with transparent holdings and direct share ownership.
A professionally-managed portfolio where you directly own each underlying investment (rather than pooling money with other investors).
Tailored investment strategies for self-managed super funds aligned with trust deed and SIS Act requirements.
A self-managed super fund where you (as trustee) decide what the fund invests in, within ATO rules. Requires a documented investment strategy.
Purpose-built portfolios designed to deliver sustainable income through the decumulation phase.
Purpose-built portfolios designed to deliver sustainable income through your retirement decades — balancing drawdown, growth and longevity.
Competitive cash management solutions and term deposits across multiple ADI institutions.
Money held at an Australian-licensed bank or other ADI, earning interest. Government-guaranteed up to $250,000 per institution.
Private equity, infrastructure, hedge fund strategies and non-traditional asset class exposure.
Investments beyond traditional shares and bonds — private equity, hedge funds, infrastructure, commodities, and structured products.
ESG-screened portfolios and ethical investment strategies aligned with your values and beliefs.
Investments screened against ESG (environmental, social, governance) criteria, or excluding sectors that conflict with your personal values.
Strategic asset allocation, risk profiling, rebalancing and ongoing portfolio optimisation.
The overarching strategy of how your money is divided across asset classes — shares, bonds, property, cash — to match your goals and risk tolerance.
Investment solutions are provided under AFSL 562647. All investments carry risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. A Statement of Advice (SOA) will be provided before any personal investment recommendation is made.
Wealth Designers Advisory Pty Ltd · ABN 65 652 475 886 · AFSL 562647
Through our open-architecture approach, we access a comprehensive range of asset classes and investment structures to construct portfolios that are genuinely aligned to your objectives, risk tolerance and stage of life.
We provide access to the full spectrum of ASX-listed equities — from large-cap blue chips through to mid and small-cap growth opportunities. Whether you're seeking franked dividend income or long-term capital appreciation, we construct direct share portfolios tailored to your objectives and tax position.
We provide access to international equities across the world's major markets — including the US, Europe, Asia and emerging economies. Global diversification reduces concentration risk and gives you exposure to companies, sectors and growth opportunities not available on the ASX.
Fixed interest and cash investments provide capital stability and predictable income. We access competitive term deposit rates across multiple ADI institutions, government and corporate bonds, and floating rate instruments — offering better returns than basic savings accounts with a higher degree of capital security.
Managed funds allow you to pool your investment with other investors, gaining access to professional fund managers, broader diversification and asset classes that may be difficult to access individually — including private credit, infrastructure, alternatives and specialist sector strategies.
ETFs combine the diversification of managed funds with the transparency and liquidity of listed shares. We use ETFs as efficient building blocks for core portfolio exposure — from broad market index tracking through to thematic strategies spanning technology, healthcare and clean energy.
For clients seeking diversification beyond traditional asset classes, we provide access to private equity, infrastructure, private credit, hedge fund strategies and real assets. Alternatives can reduce portfolio correlation and enhance risk-adjusted returns over the long term.
Select a risk profile to see how we typically construct a portfolio at each level.
A balanced portfolio seeks moderate capital growth with reasonable income and downside protection. Suitable for investors with a medium-term horizon who can tolerate some short-term volatility in pursuit of stronger long-term outcomes.
Allocations shown are illustrative only and do not represent a recommendation. Actual portfolios are individually constructed based on your risk profile, goals and personal circumstances. A Statement of Advice will be provided before any investment recommendation is made. AFSL 562647.
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Self-managed super offers control and flexibility — but it's not for everyone. We break down the decision framework.
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From salary sacrifice top-ups to capital gains harvesting — every strategy you should review this month.
Different income streams suit different needs. We compare the options for retirees seeking certainty and flexibility.
Your SMSF investment strategy must align with your trust deed. Here's what the ATO is looking for.
Not finding your question here? Our complimentary Discovery Call is the right place to ask anything at all — no obligation.
Our fee structure is transparent and agreed before any work begins. Typically there is an initial advice fee for preparing your Statement of Advice, and an ongoing service fee structured as an annual retainer. We do not earn commissions on investment products. During your Discovery Call we provide a clear indication of fees relevant to your situation.
We hold our own Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL 562647) — we are not aligned to any bank, insurer, or product manufacturer. There are no product quotas and no conflicted remuneration arrangements. Our only obligation is to act in your best interests, which is how advice should always work.
Yes. Troy holds the SMSF Specialist Advisor™ (SSA™) designation and has extensive experience advising on SMSF establishment, contribution strategy, investment governance, pension structuring, and succession. We coordinate with your SMSF auditor and accountant throughout.
The most impactful time is typically five to ten years before your target retirement date, when there is still time to optimise contributions, investment structure, and tax position. That said, it is never too late. Clients in retirement benefit significantly from ongoing strategy, sequencing advice, and portfolio management.
No. While we maintain offices in Barangaroo (Sydney) and Brisbane CBD, we advise clients nationally via video conference. Many of our strongest long-term relationships are conducted entirely remotely. If you prefer to meet in person when in either city, we are very happy to arrange that.
A Statement of Advice is a legally required document under the Corporations Act 2001 that sets out our recommendations to you, the basis on which those recommendations are made, and how any fees are structured. It is the foundation of your personalised financial plan and something we prepare with great care and attention to detail.
Quick reckoners for retirement income, super, tax and net worth. Indicative only — personal advice requires a Statement of Advice.
Estimate monthly repayments based on loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open calculator →Estimated Australian income tax, Medicare levy, and take-home pay.
Open calculator →Track income against core expense categories and find your surplus.
Open calculator →Visualise how your savings grow with the power of compounding.
Open calculator →Project your super balance at retirement based on contributions and growth.
Open calculator →Estimate how long your retirement savings will last at your desired drawdown.
Open calculator →Gauge how much life cover you may need given income, debts, and dependants.
Open calculator →Tally assets and liabilities to see your total financial position today.
Open calculator →Book a complimentary 30-minute Discovery Call with Troy. No obligation, no pressure — just an honest conversation about where you are and where you want to be.
Wealth Designers Advisory Pty Ltd · AFSL 562647 · Advice prepared under the Corporations Act 2001
Wealth Designers Advisory Pty Ltd (ABN 65 652 475 886, AFSL 562647). This website contains general information only and does not take into account your personal financial situation, objectives, or needs. Before acting on any information, you should consider its appropriateness having regard to your own circumstances. You should obtain and read the relevant Financial Services Guide (FSG) before making any decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Any advice is prepared in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and the obligations set out in the Best Interests Duty provisions thereof.