Integrity
We act in your best interests. That's not a tagline — it's the foundation of how we work.
About the firm
About Ascendancy Planning
We started with a simple idea: financial advice should be clear enough that you can actually act on it.
Paul Searle founded Ascendancy Planning in December 2019 to offer a different kind of advice — approachable, direct, and focused on what matters to each client. The goal is to understand your circumstances well enough to build a plan that genuinely fits.
We bring together the different parts of your financial life — super, investments, protection, debt — into one considered plan. No jargon, no unnecessary complexity.
We work remotely with clients across Australia, meeting by phone or video call. That means you don't need to visit an office to get good advice.
Business profile
Ascendancy Planning is Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1281933 under Bluewater Financial Advisors Pty Ltd AFSL 411846. The current Financial Services Guide identifies Paul Searle as Authorised Representative No. 001271293.
How we think about advice
Collaboration
Good planning starts with listening. We work with you, not around you.
Innovation
Sound principles, modern tools. We make advice easier to access and act on.
Clarity
You should understand what we recommend, why it matters, and what happens next.
Our team
A small team across advice, strategy, and client support.
PS
Paul Searle
Licensed Financial Advisor
Diploma in Financial Services (Financial Planning)
20+ years of experience. Paul leads financial advice across the practice, with specialist expertise in SMSF, tax, and long-term strategy.
KA
Katie A.
Practice Manager
Operations and workflow leadership
Keeps the practice running smoothly. Katie coordinates workflow, scheduling, and capacity so the team can focus on client work.
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Shellie K.
Client Engagement Manager
Client relationship and service continuity
Your point of contact before and after receiving advice. Shellie oversees the client engagement team and makes sure your experience is consistent and responsive.
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Rebecca D.
Client Liaison Specialist
First-contact coordination and support
Handles initial enquiries and intake. Rebecca ensures your questions are routed to the right person and followed up promptly.
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Clarissa D.
Senior Paraplanner
Plan preparation and technical analysis
Prepares the detail behind your advice. Clarissa produces research, analysis, and draft recommendations for adviser review.
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Pauline P.
Case Manager
Workflow coordination and follow-through
Keeps your case on track. Pauline coordinates each stage of the advice process so nothing falls between the cracks.
Start with a practical conversation
If you want to discuss your situation and what kind of help may be useful, the first conversation is free and without obligation.