Adviser team

Ben Atkins-Illek
Financial Adviser
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Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Planning) – University of Wollongong
Ben’s passion for guiding individuals toward financial independence was sparked by a profoundly transformative experience: helping his parents articulate their retirement aspirations. This early encounter with the importance of strategic financial planning galvanised his commitment to supporting retirees in pursuing a secure and fulfilling future.
Central to Ben’s philosophy is a commitment to distilling complex financial concepts into accessible guidance. By prioritising a client-centric approach, he ensures that every individual possesses both the knowledge and the tools to make sound decisions. Trust and transparency form the bedrock of his client relationships, upheld by integrity and empathy at each stage of the process.
Ben’s extensive experience equips him to offer a comprehensive range of services, from retirement planning to customised investment strategies. He focuses on tailoring his recommendations to the unique needs and aspirations of each client, providing the clarity and confidence essential for navigating life’s financial milestones.
Rising through progressively responsible roles at Adviser fp, Ben has earned the esteem of both colleagues and clients through his unwavering dedication and expertise. His deep understanding of clients’ priorities, coupled with an unwavering commitment to excellence, continues to affirm his status as a trusted adviser in the industry.
If you are ready to embark on a path toward financial freedom and peace of mind, schedule a consultation with Ben today. Whether you seek guidance on existing investments or wish to develop a robust retirement plan, his personalised approach will help you move forward with assurance and clarity. Take the first step toward realising your retirement dreams and let Ben provide the support you need for a secure and rewarding future.

Callum Wares
Provisional Financial Adviser
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Graduate Diploma of Financial Services
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Diploma of Leadership & Management
Callum joined Adviser fp in early 2020, stepping into the world of financial advice during one of the most turbulent periods in modern history. As global markets reeled from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic—characterised by shifting health policies, disrupted supply chains, geopolitical unrest, and widespread economic uncertainty—Callum quickly grasped the profound responsibility that comes with guiding clients through financial complexity and volatility. During this time, Callum recognised the critical role a Financial Adviser plays in helping clients navigate heightened market volatility, adjust financial plans to reflect changes in income or expenses, and provide informed guidance through uncertain economic conditions.
At the heart of Callum’s advice philosophy is his commitment to helping people live the life they aspire to—by achieving financial freedom. He breaks down complex financial concepts into clear, digestible insights and tailors strategies to each client’s unique circumstances. Callum believes trust is the cornerstone of all client relationships, consistently upheld by his integrity and empathy throughout every stage of the advice process.
Since joining Adviser fp, Callum has earned widespread respect for his professionalism and deep industry knowledge. His ability to understand what truly matters to his clients, combined with a relentless pursuit of excellence, has cemented his reputation as a trusted and valued figure at Adviser fp.
Callum exemplifies Adviser fp’s philosophy of being each client’s lifestyle and financial partner, coach, and educator. This approach allows him to keep clients on track toward their goals, while also taking the time to celebrate their achievements along the way.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward financial confidence and long-term security, book a consultation with Callum today. Whether you’re looking to refine your current investment strategy or develop a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your goals, his personalised guidance will empower you to move forward with clarity and peace of mind.
Start building the future you envision—Callum is here to provide the trusted support you need for a secure and fulfilling tomorrow.

Michelle Maguire
Financial Adviser
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Master of Financial Planning
Michelle has been a longstanding member of the financial services industry since she joined in 1997 in her country of birth, Ireland. She relocated to Australia with her family in 2004 and commenced working with a major bank from January 2005. During her time in Australia, she has held a number of adviser roles, the most recent as a Principal Financial Adviser.
Michelle joined Adviser fp in November 2022 with a desire to provide a more holistic offering to her clients, while continuing to make a positive impact on the outcomes of the lives she touched. Michelle has always had a passion for helping people to be the best they can be and would tell you it is the core of her everyday life as an adviser, which is reflected in the work she does for her clients.
During her time in the industry Michelle has had the ability to develop many rewarding relationships with new and longstanding clients. She thrives on seeing her clients grow and develop financial confidence, security and empowerment by demystifying the complex areas of financial planning. Michelle believes there is nothing more satisfying than seeing a client’s dreams and plans come to fruition after working together over time to achieve them.
As an avid believer in goal setting and communication, Michelle exudes strong emotional intelligence and soft skills which allows her clients to feel heard and open up to her with ease. Michelle is a true professional who is well organised and in control of her workload. She cares about her clients while having a desire to mentor a new generation of advice professionals. Michelle is incredibly resilient, positive and deals well with change. She stays grounded and humble and considers it a privilege to help clients with their finances.
Michelle has continued her growth and development as an adviser by completing a number of studies over the years and has attained a Master of Financial Planning at WSU (Western Sydney University).
Michelle is an active member of her local basketball community – on weekends she can be seen on the side lines coaching the Hills Hornets Women’s teams from a junior to a senior level. She is tenacious about giving back to the sport she has played since she was 13, having represented her country at an international level and earned numerous accolades.
When Michelle is not at work, she enjoys time with her husband and three children, listening to her audio books, being active, travelling and watching sport.

Simon Clifford
Financial Adviser
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Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Macquarie University
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CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® - Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA, previously FPA)
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Accredited Adviser - Family Business Australia (FBA)
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Diploma of Financial Planning (Dip FP) - Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA)
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Affiliate of the Financial Services Institute of Australasia (FINSIA, previously SIA)
Simon Clifford, is a seasoned financial adviser, bringing over 35 years of experience to the table. His journey in the financial planning industry began in 1988, starting as a life insurance consultant and swiftly transitioning into a financial planner when he established his own financial planning business in 1990.
Simon’s commitment to continuous learning led him to complete a Certificate in Financial Markets in 1994, followed by a Diploma in Financial Planning in 1997. Not stopping there, he achieved the highest designation as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® in the same year. Simon’s thirst for knowledge persisted, prompting him to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA), which he successfully completed in 2001. His dedication extends to ongoing studies and short courses, including his admission as an Accredited Adviser with Family Business Australia (FBA) in 2014.
Simon’s diverse roles have provided him with valuable insights into running a business and managing the operations of a licensed dealer in securities. Notably, he established a privately owned Australian Financial Services Licensee (AFSL) in 2001, which had 24 branches in NSW, where he served as a Director until its sale in June 2012.
Simon is currently a director and owner of the AFSL FP Advice, and is the CEO of his Financial Planning practice Adviser fp, which currently employs 18 staff.
His interest in Family Business stems from working alongside his brother for 13 years and navigating the complexities of buying out a family member in 2003.
Outside of his professional endeavours, Simon is a devoted family man, married, with a son and daughter. He is involved in various community fundraisers, engages in numerous sporting activities and skilfully balances his busy schedule between these pursuits and his family.

Tony Fox
Financial Adviser
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Bachelor of Business (B. Bus)
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CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® - Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA, previously FPA)
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Graduate Diploma in Marketing (Grad Dip Mktg)
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Diploma of Financial Planning (Dip FP) - Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA)
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Accredited Aged Care Professional™
High quality financial planners are hard to find but Tony has successfully fulfilled this role for over twenty five years. Degree qualified and holding the peak designation of CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, Tony will get to know you so he can assist you to achieve your goals and objectives. He will work closely with you to understand your circumstances and underlying issues, then analyse and appraise alternatives before delivering detailed recommendations.
In addition to modern financial planning methods, Tony is passionate about the plight of the elderly and with the benefit of his status of an Accredited Aged Care Professional™ has been helping families navigate the aged care sector in relation to asset structuring and cash flow planning to fund upfront and ongoing costs.
Don’t hesitate to contact Tony and the team at Adviser fp to find out how they can help you.

Troy McPhee
Financial Adviser
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Master of Commerce (Financial Planning) – University of Western Sydney
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CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® - Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA, previously FPA)
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Foundation Diploma of Financial Planning - Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA)
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Graduate Diploma (Marketing) – Monash University
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Affiliate Diploma (Life Insurance) – The Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance (ANZIIF, previously AII)
Troy has been a respected financial planning professional since joining the industry in 1992. Clients describe him as commercially astute, practical and free-thinking and he undertakes his role with integrity and genuine passion.
With a background in financial services management and training within organisations such as AMP, Mercantile Mutual (now ING) and Tower (now TAL), Troy brings the experience of the large corporate organisations to you, on a more personalised level.
Joining the Adviser fp team in 2002, he remains committed to his goal of achieving financial growth and security, for you, his client. Clients enjoy a genuine relationship with Troy as he takes the time to really discover what makes you tick – your dreams, goals and aspirations – as your financial portfolio is all about you.
With Troy, clients are more than just a number – the only numbers he concentrates on are yours, as he supports you to build the portfolio you need to exceed your lifestyle goals. And the proof is in his outcomes, as Troy continues to secure strong results, year after year, expertly pivoting and adapting as market and economic conditions change.
A dynamic and personable adviser, Troy fosters long terms relationships and boasts a quality professional network. Whilst he is interactive and visible within the financial planning industry, he is also a frequent participator in business forums, industry conferences and networking events, all of which you will benefit from as he remains professionally current, market aware and dynamic.
With extensive experience, tenacity and market knowledge, Troy will support you to achieve your personal, financial and lifestyle goals. Connect with Troy and the team at Adviser fp and take charge of your future today.
