The 2024 Federal Budget provides cost of living relief through 1 July tax cuts, lower power bills, higher welfare payments and support for small businesses. Read the full budget summary to find out what it means for you. Continue reading →
Retirement planning is one of those things that often gets pushed to the back burner. Here we'll outline some steps you can take to secure your financial future.
Continue reading →
Although it can feel uncomfortable,
talking about money is a good thing.
Seek help from the experts to start
positive conversations and keep things
on track Continue reading →
Making a decision about life insurance is an essential part of your self managed super fund’s
investment strategy and can provide a valuable benefit for members. Learn more Continue reading →
The 50/30/20 budgeting strategy approach enables you to manage your money without making too many sacrifices. It helps you to divvy up your take-home pay into three main areas – needs, wants and savings.
Read more to see if this strategy is right for you - Continue reading →
There are two important ages you need to consider when thinking about retirement: Preservation age and Age Pension age. Do you know the difference? Continue reading →
According to recent research, over two and half million Australians say they intend to seek help from a financial adviser over the next two years. The pandemic has been a major catalyst, with 44% saying the COVID-19 situation had increased their likelihood of seeking advice.
If you’ve ever wondered what a financial adviser could do for you, here’s a brief introduction Continue reading →
Your 7-point retirement planning checklist
While there’s no set age or rulebook to retire, you’ll want to make sure your health and finances support you during this transition. Taking into consideration the type of lifestyle you would like to lead will act as a clear indication for how much money you need to set aside or have access to.
Here are some of the aspects to consider Continue reading →
If you're among the many who are now working from home, you've probably realised that having the right home-office set is essential - but it does come at a cost. With the end of the financial year fast approaching, here is an overview of the items you may be able to claim in your tax return. Continue reading →
Surviving on a student budget isn’t easy, but it can be done. Whether you’re studying remotely this year, or returning to campus, we’ve gathered some tips to help you manage your finances. Continue reading →
Saving money doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Some people are wired to save – for others it takes a bit more discipline. But developing good savings habits can do so much for both your financial wellbeing and your future security. These 7 tips could see you start to change your ways. Continue reading →
Your super balance will most likely play a big part in how comfortably you live in retirement. See the average super balance for your age group, so you can get an idea of how your super savings compare. Reach out to us if you need advice. Continue reading →
In a world of ever-changing economic landscapes, achieving financial freedom has become a universal aspiration. Read about the essential strategies and mindset shifts required to pave the way toward financial independence. Continue reading →
There are 5 megatrends suggesting higher medium term inflation pressures and lower economic growth than pre-pandemic: a move away from economic rationalist policies; the reversal of globalisation; rising geopolitical tensions; climate change and decarbonisation; and slowing and aging populations. Learn more. Continue reading →
Do you know how much you can ‘safely’ spend in retirement? This article introduces a retirement income model that can help you calculate the spending level your savings can safely support with a degree of confidence.
Continue reading →
We all want to live a good life with our partner, but does that have to include fine dining every night and travelling to exotic destinations? We bring you five tips for enjoying the best in life without blowing the budget. Continue reading →
Women are more likely to be Stressed Survivors - struggling to make ends meet, spending time worrying about finances at work and feeling unprepared for the rising cost of living. Here are some ways for everyone to start taking control of their finances. Continue reading →
Retirement is a time that many Australians eagerly anticipate. Learn about key strategies to help boost and preserve your retirement savings, to help you achieve longterm financial security throughout your golden years. Continue reading →
If you’d like your money to make a difference to the world as well as your future, responsible investing may be for you. Learn more about ethical, social and governance (ESG) investments. Continue reading →
Elder financial abuse can happen to anyone at any time. Learn how to recognise the signs and equip yourself with the knowledge to minimise the risk of it happening to you. Continue reading →
We all want to make the most of our tax return each year.
If you’re looking at what deductions you might be able to claim, the good news is you may be able to add after-tax super contributions to your tax-deductions list. Continue reading →
Have you considered making a downsizer contribution into your super? Perhaps you’re not sure if you are eligible? Contact us today to see how we can help you navigate this complex area. Continue reading →
Is it true love if they are asking you for your credit card details?
Here are a few simple steps to help protect yourself against romance scams. Continue reading →
The past financial year saw a solid rebound in investment returns, after the negative returns of the 2021-22 financial year. This note reviews the past 12 months in investment markets and looks at the outlook. Continue reading →
The budget this year is expected to return to a surplus of $4b thanks to a continuing revenue windfall. Key measures include cost of living support, more spending on aged care and a move to slow NDIS growth. Read the full budget summary to find out what it means for you. Continue reading →
Making sure you’re getting the best deal on insurance without missing out on the cover you need can feel like a minefield. Get to know where and how to buy. Continue reading →
When it comes to investing, there’s no one size fits all strategy that can assure success but there are some different investment styles that could help investors achieve their goals. Continue reading →
Is it really possible to live within your means and still enjoy life? The answer is yes and with just a few important changes you can start spending less and lose the debt Continue reading →
Do you find yourself drowning in random receipts when EOFY comes around? Learn to lodge your tax return the easy way with these tax hacks. Continue reading →
Learn about the superannuation death
tax and how to avoid it by contacting us
now. Our professional superannuation
advisers we can help you navigate this
complex area. Continue reading →
Saving money doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Some people are wired to save – for others it takes a bit more discipline; but developing good savings habits can do so much for both your financial wellbeing and your future security. Continue reading →
Shares have hit turbulence again with worries about inflation, interest rates, recession and now, problems in US banks. What does the collapse of the Silicon Valley Bank (SBV) mean for investors? Find out in our latest bulletin.
Related Article: US banks, inflation, interest rates and recession risk
Hashtags: #FinancialPlanning #SVB #Recession
Continue reading →
Curious about how share markets work?
Do you want to learn more about shares – what they are and how they work?
Get started on your journey to smart investing today - read more Continue reading →
The RBA hiked again by 0.25% taking the cash rate to 3.35%. In justifying another hike, the RBA noted inflation is at its highest since 1990, the labour market remains tight, wages growth is expected to pick up and its “priority is to return inflation to (the 2-3%) target”. Continue reading →
Reverse mortgages are home mortgages that work in the opposite way to a normal home mortgage. Check out our latest article to learn more about how it can work for you. Continue reading →
Whatever stage you’re at in life, there are things you can be doing to get on top of your finances to create a better tomorrow. Try these tips aligned to the age and stage of life. Continue reading →
With the rising inflation, Australians are looking for ways to reduce daily expenses and increase their income. In this article we look at some of the best ways that you can offset inflation. Continue reading →
Retirement can start to feel closer when you’re in your 40s. Fortunately, there’s still plenty of time to make decisions that could have a positive impact on your future financial wellbeing. Find out how. Continue reading →
If you’ve recently split from your partner or are wondering who'll get the home or the car if you do, in this article we address some of the key issues and concerns. Continue reading →
If you’re thinking about refinancing your home loan, this step-by-step guide shows you what to expect and how to navigate the process. Continue reading →
Super is a longer-term investment designed to fund your retirement. While it’s a popular option for many, there are also a number of investment options outside of super to consider. Here’s what you need to know. Continue reading →
Are you buying more to perk yourself up? You aren’t alone. Since the start of COVID, there’s been an increase in online shopping. But, if you want to rein in your urge to splurge, here’s how you can make a start Continue reading →
People in their 20s and 30s tend to overlook Superannuation, potentially missing out on opportunities that could make a real difference to their retirement savings in the long term. Here’s what you need to know -
Continue reading →
Giving to charity can be a great way to help others and give your tax return a boost, but not all donations are tax deductible. Here’s what you need to know about making a tax-deductible donation. Continue reading →
There are many reasons we fall into the trap of overspending. One reason is we get bombarded with very effective advertising on social media where data scientists and algorithms seem to know what we will be tempted by before we do.
Perhaps we are emotional spenders and buy things because it feels good. Maybe we’re trying to keep up with the Joneses, or perhaps we lose track of how much we’re spending when we pay with plastic or we never set up a budget in the first place. Whatever the reason, the temptation to overspend is real and powerful. Which is why it’s crucial to teach kids to be smart with money, particularly how to spend wisely.
Continue reading →
Share markets have fallen sharply in recent weeks continuing the plunge that started early this year due to worries about inflation, monetary tightening, recession and geopolitical issues including the invasion of Ukraine.
For the first time since November 2010, the RBA has raised its official cash rate - from 0.1% taking it to 0.35%. This was above market expectations for a 0.15% hike and a bit closer to our expectation for a 0.4% move suggesting that the RBA appears to have partly accepted the argument that it had to do something decisive in order to signal its resolve to get inflation back down. Continue reading →
The relatively modest difference in economic policies between the Coalition and Labor suggests minimal impact on investment markets if there is a change of government at the forthcoming election. But what happens if neither the Coalition or Labor win enough seats to govern? Continue reading →
The Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has handed down the 2022 Federal Budget. As widely expected, the government announced measures aimed at addressing the rising cost of living, including cash payments, a cut to the fuel excise and tax breaks. Check out the key points here. Continue reading →
Depending on the situation, you might get some of your ex partner’s super, or they may get some of yours. See what you need to know.
A divorce from your husband or wife, or a separation from your de facto, could mean a division of your assets and debts, whether they’re held individually or together, and superannuation is no exception.
Continue reading →
The days when ‘green’ investors were the ones who cycled to see their adviser and carried home their investment brochures in a hemp bag are long gone (if they ever existed). Responsible Investing is now the preferred approach for a growing number of investors. Continue reading →
You’ve probably heard a lot about share market falls in recent weeks but what does that mean for you and your investments?
Being more engaged with your super investments could help you make the most if the time you have to grow your wealth for retirement – and navigate share market falls. Continue reading →
New super rules introduced recently mean employees are now ‘stapled’ to their existing superannuation fund, unless they choose otherwise. That’s why it’s more important than ever to consolidate your super and take control of your retirement savings. Here’s what you need to know. Continue reading →
Looking at your spending in a new light could make a substantial difference to your financial future. The 50/20/30 budget rule works for one main reason – it’s easy. See how the 50/20/30 rule can help you budget smarter. Continue reading →
The last few days have seen a sharp escalation in the situation between Russia and Ukraine, with Russia recognising the independence of two regions in the Donbas area of eastern Ukraine controlled by Russian separatists and ordering Russian “peacekeeping” troops into the regions. At this stage it’s unclear how big the force will be, whether it will push beyond the areas controlled by the separatists and, if so, how far. Although President Putin continues to deny plans to invade Ukraine, his comments suggest a move into the areas of Donetsk and Luhansk in the Donbas that the rebels do not yet control. As a result, share markets have fallen further with US and global shares falling just below their January lows and Australian shares also under pressure, although so far they have held up a bit better. Continue reading →
There comes a time when every small business owner needs to consider a loan for business. Before you take the plunge and apply for a loan, there is a range of questions to consider. Continue reading →
Tradies and skilled professionals are increasingly in demand on jobs marketplace Airtasker, and earnings through the platform are increasing. 🧰
Read our blog to find out how tradies across Australia are earning extra cash. Continue reading →
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare recently released a report covering the impacts of COVID-19 on Australians during the first year of the pandemic. The report highlights that many of the measures necessary to contain the spread of the Continue reading →
As a relationship naturally progresses, you might start to plan to move in or purchase a property together. Combining your money can be done in stages and can evolve as your relationship does. To learn more about how to navigate this transition, read on. Continue reading →
Rather than splurging on perfume, appliances or watches for Christmas, why not try opting for more creative and thoughtful gifts that don’t break the bank. Here are some ways you can spoil your loved ones without maxing out your credit card. Continue reading →
The act of giving to loved ones is dear to many around Christmas time. However, it’s important not to entangle your good intentions with overspending that could create financial pressure in the new year. Here are some tips on how to shop smarter this Christmas. Continue reading →
Everyone has financial goals. Maybe you want to pay off your mortgage early, stop relying on your credit cards, or go on an amazing overseas holiday (once we’re allowed to travel again). Or you might want to set up good Continue reading →
Donating to a charity or cause you care about is a win-win for both you and the charity. Charities rely on the generosity of donors to help them do their work, while you get the satisfaction of supporting a worthy Continue reading →
When it comes to living a longer, healthier, more active lifestyle, a good approach involves easy tasks you can turn into everyday habits. If you’re after ideas, here are some ways you can sustain or even improve your physical and mental wellbeing. Continue reading →
Superannuation is your financial safety net, so you can retire comfortably when the time arises. If you want to know more about how your super balance compares, where your money’s invested, or who’ll get your super if you pass away, this list is for you. Continue reading →
It’s one of the most common questions financial advisers get – should you pay down the mortgage or salary sacrifice into your super? Deciding on the best approach is different for each individual and depends on economic factors such as interest rates and the performance of your investment mix. Here’s some tips on what to consider to be in the best position possible. Continue reading →
Should I still change jobs despite COVID-19? Changing jobs has always had its challenges. With the added impacts of COVID-19 on the employment landscape, the unknown can become daunting. If you’re looking for a new job or a shift in career, here’s a guide on what to consider depending on your skills within the industry. Continue reading →
It could take months, even years, to clear debt – especially if you used your credit card and you know you’ll be slugged with snowballing compound interest each month you don’t pay it off. That’s why we always recommend having an emergency fund. It’s a pool of money you always have on hand to cover any unexpected expenses. Here’s how you can set one up Continue reading →
The ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has taken its toll on the wellbeing of many Australians. It’s well known that mental health and financial wellbeing are linked, with prolonged financial stress associated with anxiety and depression. If you’re experiencing financial stress, here are some practical steps you can take to get back on track. Continue reading →
If you’re receiving a tax refund this year it can be tempting to splurge out on things you want but don’t
necessarily need. Here are some ways you can use your tax refund
to build a stronger financial future. Continue reading →
Boosting your superannuation savings is one of the best ways to grow your retirement nest egg, and
the Australian government offers a range of incentives to encourage Australians to do just that. One
approach is called ‘salary sacrifice’ and it can help you to grow your super savings while potentially
paying less tax. Here’s how it works, the benefits, and some things to consider when deciding
whether it’s right for you.
Continue reading →
In the past, wealth was often passed on through an inheritance. But with our longer lifespans, and
the higher cost of living (especially housing), the desire to help our kids while we’re alive and well is
increasing. But how can you help your children without compromising your own security and
comfort in retirement? Here’s what you need to know. Continue reading →
Every age has its inner turmoil. Teenagers, adults, retirees; everyone goes through emotional angst.
But only one age group has a name for it - a ‘midlife crisis.’ Despite what we’re led to believe, a midlife crisis isn’t inevitable, the key is to reassess what’s really important to you and start setting goals
for the next chapter of your life. It’s never too late to make a change. Continue reading →
Did you know that when it comes to super, you have the same rights regardless of whether you're married, in a de facto relationship or in a civil partnership? Meaning, your partner could be entitled to receive part of your super if your relationship breaks down. Here's five things every couple should know about super. Continue reading →
Being in debt can really wear you down, both financially and emotionally. Whether it’s a single large credit card balance or multiple loans, store and credit cards owing, getting clear of your debts is going to make a big difference Continue reading →
It seems the bad news on coronavirus doesn’t let up. The lockdown in NSW looks like going longer. There is endless debate about whether governments are doing the right thing, whether the vaccines will work and when we can Continue reading →
For years, commentators have said Australia is experiencing a property bubble - with house prices in
the country’s capital cities rising so much that they’ve been called unaffordable - even by global
standards. What are the key drivers behind this growth and will the bubble burst?
Continue reading →
With one in four Australians reporting more financial stress after COVID, it’s no surprise many of us are concerned about the future. Between mounting bills, unexpected expenses and a lack of understanding around our needs in retirement, getting our savings Continue reading →
It’s fair to say that most of us aren’t crazy about budgeting. Even with the latest budgeting apps that aim to make this common sense habit into something easy and fun, the thought of keeping tabs on what we’re spending from month-to-month fills many people with boredom or anxiety. Continue reading →
Your 60s are the time in which you’re most likely to retire – according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, of the Aussies who are planning their retirement, the average age they intend to retire is 65.5 years. But just Continue reading →
There’s no denying the pandemic has significantly affected the finances of many Australians. Some of us are spending more, some are cutting back on non-essential spending and for others, the uncertainty has challenged us to save money for a rainy day, Continue reading →
Financial setbacks can appear in our lives when we least expect it. Paying back a loan like a mortgage or settling debt can be overwhelming to deal with. As individuals, we must take control and choose how to react in Continue reading →
