Hewison Private Wealth Marks 40 Years of Independence

Independent wealth management firm Hewison Private Wealth is celebrating 40 years in business, a rare milestone that represents not only longevity, but the story of a firm that helped redefine what finanical advice could be in Australia.

Founded in 1985 by John and Helen Hewison, the business was one of the first in the country to reject conflicted advice models in favour of complete independence, decades before transparency and fiduciary duty became regulatory expectations. At a time when product-linked advice was the norm, Hewison’s vision was bold and contrarian: to build a financial advisory firm grounded in trust, integrity, and genuine partnership.

“When I started Hewison & Associates in 1985, I believed there was a better way to serve clients, one based entirely on independence and doing what’s right,” said founder John Hewison in the firm’s new short film, Four Decades. One Story

From humble beginnings at home, to a small South Yarra office and now occupying an entire floor on St Kilda Road in Melbourne, Hewison Private Wealth has grown into one of Australia’s most respected independent firms, guiding a team of more than 60 professionals managing almost $3 billion on behalf of families, professionals, and business owners nationwide.

At the firm’s 40-year celebration held in Melbourne this month, Managing Director Andrew Hewison reflected on the legacy and the culture that continues to drive the firm forward. “We don’t aim to be the biggest, we aim to be the best,” said Andrew. “Our values of Fun, Family, Empowerment, and Excellence are lived every day. They’re the reason our people stay, our clients trust us, and our business continues to thrive. My father taught me to always put the client’s interests before your own, and I’m proud that principle still defines who we are today.”

Hewison Private Wealth’s enduring purpose is simple yet powerful: to partner with clients to help them achieve their goals and dreams for the future. This purpose continues to shape the firm’s culture, client relationships, and investment philosophy. “In 2025, we remain one of the few truly independent advice businesses in Australia and that independence is what allows us to innovate,” said Andrew.

Hewison Private Wealth’s investment philosophy is built around direct ownership, disciplined strategy, and long-term value creation that has been tested and proven through multiple market cycles, including the Global Financial Crisis and COVID-19. “We’re the youngest 40-year-old business you’ll find,” Andrew added. “Our drive to improve, challenge convention, and serve clients without compromise has never been stronger.”

Hewison’s 40-year story is not just one of endurance, but of influence. As the financial advice industry continues to evolve, the firm’s unwavering independence and ethical foundations stand as proof that client-centric advice and commercial success can coexist, sustainably, and without compromise. From typewriters to AI, from small beginnings with a bold vision to be one of Australia’s largest independent firms, Hewison Private Wealth’s journey mirrors the transformation of modern financial advice and continues to set the standard for what true independence can achieve.

“We started from zero and gradually built a client base,” said John. “Our clients have trusted us through every market, every challenge, and every opportunity. Their loyalty is the reason we’re here and the foundation of our next 40 years.”

About Hewison Private Wealth

Founded in 1985, Hewison Private Wealth is one of Australia’s largest truly independent financial advice firms. Nearing $3 billion in funds under management, Hewison provides bespoke wealth management and financial advisory services including superannuation and SMSF advice, retirement and estate planning, and philanthropy services. The firm is privately owned and operates without external influence, delivering strategic, long-term advice focused solely on client outcomes.