The CEO of the AIOFP, Peter Johnston, reports on Lionel Rodrigues acceptance into Deakin University

Hi, very pleased to inform you that long term member and Chair of the AIOFP TECHNICAL COMMITTEE Lionel Rodrigues has been accepted into Deakin University to complete his PhD in Regulatory Law and how it affects Financial Advisers and consumers.

Below are the details, we are not aware of anyone else who has gone down this path. Lionel also holds a Masters in Financial Advice/Regulatory Law, degree in Accountancy and operated his own AFSL for over 33 years.

Recently Lionel briefed Mr Bernard Quinn KC on the 99FA flawed legislation proving that TREASURY and the Ministers advisers did not understand the legislation and its ramifications. A very concerning outcome for the industry in general and consumers.

Over the past 15 years attending Canberra Treasury briefings and responding to requests for industry submissions has been largely a waste of time. It has become obvious ‘Canberra’ has already decided on their agenda and meeting with the industry is just an inutile exercise for both sides.

Why would Bureaucrats who live in the Canberra bubble, never been in business, given advice or dealt with a consumer need to speak with industry professionals? How bloody preposterous!

Lionel has offered his services to Canberra in the past for no cost to oversee proposed legislation/policy to ensure it is fit for purpose for all stakeholders before release, but it falls on deaf ears. Maybe they might start listening in future to Dr Lionel!

Lionel will be presenting at the Canberra conference.

Please remember the next few months is the window when all Politicians start listening……we all need to be in Canberra on November 25^th.