Time to invest
Super changes that may affect you.
May 14th, 2018
The government has made a number of changes to superannuation this financial year, which are designed to improve the system for all Australians. While these changes may not affect you now, it’s important to be aware of them should your circumstances change in the future. Recent major changes to the super system include: changes to […]
Financial hygiene takes a break on holidays.
May 14th, 2018
Follow one simple step to keep holiday spending under control. The colder months are upon us, which means plenty of Australians will be embarking on some budget travel. Making plans and preparations for an overseas holiday is all part of the fun. But all too often good financial hygiene flies out the window when we’re travelling, […]
The little known truth about aged care.
May 14th, 2018
Moving a loved one into aged care can be an emotional time for families. Finding a facility that provides the right balance of care and independence at an affordable cost presents challenges. There are key issues families should be aware of before taking this important step. A well-researched choice will help avoid stress and ease […]
Some people find writing a will too difficult to contemplate, while others have simply never made the time. The reality is, it’s an issue that anyone who wants control over their finances after they die should confront. Like instruction manuals, wills are a step-by-step guide on how your assets should be handled. Dying without a […]
When thinking back to words of advice that you may have heard from your parents, or have even passed on to your children, what sticks in your mind? “Start saving whilst you are young,” is one of those recommendations that comes to mind and is one that is still used ad nauseam. Why? This advice […]
The sudden interest in interest-only loans
January 31st, 2018
We put interest-only loans under the spotlight to explain the why, when and how this type of loan can be useful. You may be aware that interest-only loans came under the scrutiny of banking watchdog APRA early in 2017. In a bid to take the heat out of the property market and protect consumer interests, […]
Self-managed super – are you protected?
January 31st, 2018
Self-managed super funds (SMSF) have risen in popularity during recent decades as a growing number of Australians opt for greater control over their superannuation, and how it’s invested. However, while SMSFs can offer more direct control over investment strategy, asset selection and portfolio management than some managed superannuation funds, they are not without risks and […]
The dangers of “buy now, pay later”
January 30th, 2018
A raft of “buy now, pay later” options like Afterpay and zipPay are giving consumers the opportunity to take their purchases home immediately, and pay them off over time. But, there are downsides that shoppers must be aware of. Late fees can be costly Afterpay allows shoppers to link purchases to their debit or credit […]