My Dealer Services (MDS), a provider of self-licensing support for financial advisers, has announced a significant partnership with Colonial First State (CFS), leveraging the expertise of CFS’s acclaimed FirstTech team.
This collaboration, which follows the introduction of three new or improved services as part of its expansion strategy, aims to bolster the technical capabilities of more than 400 financial advisers across 110 AFSLs, providing them with comprehensive support in various key financial advice domains.
The partnership marks the fourth major enhancement in MDS’ service offerings this year, underscoring its commitment to expanding support amid a rapid increase in its member network.
In 2024 alone, MDS supported more than 20% of all Australian financial advisers who transitioned to self-licensing, with plans to further grow its network and service offerings throughout 2025.
According to Alexander Euvrard (pictured left), MDS director and founder, the partnership will equip MDS’ adviser members with the latest online technical reference and strategy guides spanning superannuation, tax, self-managed super funds, aged care, social security, and estate planning.
Euvrard highlighted additional member benefits, including access to CFS FirstTech’s podcasts, webinars, monthly bulletins, and fact sheets, which advisers can utilise in client communications.
Chris Mather (pictured right), CFS business executive director of new business, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative.
“CFS is delighted to partner with MDS to help advisers deliver great outcomes for their clients,” Mather said.
Ashley Mahadeea, MDS head of strategy, emphasised the broader strategic intent of enhancing advisor support beyond self-licensing guidance.
“Our educational partnership with CFS is a great example of how we add value,” Mahadeea said. “We actively seek out leading service providers to support our adviser groups, ensuring they receive top-tier resources at competitive rates.”
This year, MDS has not only focused on educational partnerships but has also launched several new services.
These include a collaboration with Australian Fintech firm Claras to offer an AI-driven tool that converts client conversations into detailed file notes, enhancing data security.
Additionally, MDS introduced a paraplanning and administration service in cooperation with Broker Support Global (BSG), providing SOA creation support through BSG’s extensive paraplanner and admin teams located both overseas and in Australia.
Moreover, MDS unveiled the MDS Licensee Compliance Portal, a secure online dashboard that helps members stay updated with compliance dates, requirements, and the latest industry governance and regulatory news.
