Time to think ahead
Grow your super with a government top-up
September 25th, 2020
If you earn below $54,837 a year, you could be eligible for a super co-contribution of up to $500. It’s a great way to grow your super without having to do it all yourself. Here’s how it works. The Government Co-contribution Put a little extra money into your super before the end of the financial […]
How to pay down debt in a recession
September 24th, 2020
Saving and paying down debt have become national pastimes as Australia enters its first recession in nearly three decades. Amid revelations of a record economic contraction, household spending fell by $35.2 billion in the three months to June 30 while household savings rose by a whopping $42 billion. Fitzpatricks Private Wealth certified financial planner Randall Stout said […]
Could raising SG help rebuild the economy?
September 21st, 2020
New research from Industry Super Australia (ISA) claims industry super funds (like First Super) plan to invest $33 billion in the economy over the next five years, playing a crucial role in the country’s financial recovery from coronavirus. The planned investment is expected to stimulate business activity and create hundreds of thousands of jobs. However, these plans could be affected if the Federal Government backflips on a legislated rise in the superannuation guarantee (SG) rate. Between now and 2025, the SG […]
Financial support beyond super
September 15th, 2020
It can be overwhelming making financial decisions right now, especially if you’re struggling with the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. But seeking help and taking action now can go a long way to getting things under control and, eventually, back on track. Check out these websites and online tools for a helping hand: MoneySmart outlines steps you can take to look after yourself and your money, including making super and investment decisions, accessing […]
Connecting safely online
September 15th, 2020
Do you know how to spot an online scam? What about how to sell your products safely online? With more of us working from home, the eSafety Commissioner is hosting free webinar presentations on a range of topics to help Australians use the internet confidently and safely. While the webinars are primarily aimed at older Australians, anyone looking to upskill or protect […]
Staying alert to super scammers
August 31st, 2020
The Federal Government’s consumer protection agency, ASIC, is reporting that fraudsters are contacting unsuspecting super members claiming to represent ASIC and offering to help them combine their superannuation accounts. What to look out for ASIC will never call members offering to help with consolidating (rolling in) super, and it doesn’t let anyone else act on its behalf to push financial products or services. So any call, […]
First Super marketing campaigns nominated for excellence
August 31st, 2020
First Super is a finalist in three categories at the 2020 Australian Marketing Institute Awards for Marketing Excellence. The awards, which have been running for almost 40 years, recognise organisations and individuals who have achieved extraordinary success with their marketing practices. The Fund is nominated for the following campaigns and categories: Don’t be crazy! Find your lost super – Loyalty and Retention Don’t be […]
How to negotiate cheaper home loan rates during a pandemic
August 14th, 2020
Wages growth has stagnated and unemployment is historically high, but cash-strapped households can stretch their money a little further by slashing their mortgage costs. Although the average mortgage rate has fallen over the years to just 3.43 per cent, many customers can make big savings by negotiating a better deal with either their existing lender […]