Seven things I would tell my younger self about superannuation and investing

6 August

At 60, retirement no longer feels like a distant event. It is close enough to imagine the lifestyle I want, the experiences I hope to enjoy and the financial decisions that will shape the years ahead.   Looking back to when I first started work,...[Read More]

3 tips to secure your family finances

6 August

If there’s anything people learned from the recessions and global crises of recent past, it’s that no one is immune to economic upheavals.   Even middle to upper-class families are at the mercy of their finances when misfortune strikes. This...[Read More]

The first money conversations every couple should have

2 July

Getting married or moving in together is an exciting step. It is about love, commitment, shared plans and building a life together. But it is also a time when two financial worlds often come together. Different spending habits, savings goals, debts,...[Read More]

Nation-first stamp duty cut gains federal endorsement

17 June

State governments have been encouraged to follow the lead of the ACT and abolish stamp duty, but it’s unlikely to happen without Commonwealth support. ACT Treasurer Chris Steel announced all first home buyers would be exempt from paying stamp duty...[Read More]

Helping kids with living expenses – prepare them for the responsibilities of adulthood

4 June

There’s a family event of sorts that gives parents mixed feelings of sadness, apprehension and relief — and children a lot of excitement: when a child leaves the proverbial nest.   Now, this can happen early during your child’s teenage years...[Read More]

How housing became a generational budget battleground

20 May

Young homeowner Mika likes Jim Chalmers’ housing policies but the treasurer’s preferred choice of coffee is a problem. “Does anyone know how to make a long black?” she asks media and ministerial staff waiting in her small Canberra apartment...[Read More]

Smarter energy at home: Serious ways to reduce electricity bills

14 May

Electricity bills have become one of the biggest household expenses, and for many families, the usual advice of “turn off the lights” simply does not go far enough.   While small habits matter, meaningful savings often come from understanding...[Read More]

Budget lacks energy for big renewable project reforms

13 May

Australia’s growing throng of solar panels, batteries and electric cars will be managed by a new regulator in a multimillion-dollar budget commitment welcomed by investment and climate groups. The change will come in addition to support for...[Read More]

Saving for the future

30 April

In an era where the allure of instant gratification is stronger than ever, the art of saving money seems to be fading into the background. Yet, the truth remains: most of us have aspirations that extend beyond our immediate reach, be it a new car,...[Read More]

Top 5 tips to motivate kids to save

23 April

Building strong money habits early can set children up for a lifetime of smart financial decisions.  It all starts with simple lessons in saving, spending, and valuing what matters most.   Help Them Set a Clear Goal Saving is much easier when...[Read More]

You’re probably wrong about fuel-efficient driving

15 April

Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson once proved that the 414-horsepower, V8-engined, bellowing petrolhead pin-up BMW M3 could be even more eco-friendly than the famously thrifty Toyota Prius. To do this, in 2008 he ran an experiment in no way...[Read More]

Starting a business? Here’s what to think about before you dive in

9 April

Launching a business is an exciting step, whether you’re turning a passion into profit or building something from the ground up. But before you register a name and start trading, there are important legal and strategic considerations that can make...[Read More]

Credit card points schemes in firing line after tweaks

8 April

Overseas trips and hotel stays funded through credit reward schemes could be in trouble as Australia’s central bank cuts fees on card transactions. The Reserve Bank has revamped card usage by banning surcharge payments and cutting interchange...[Read More]

Building the right team when buying an investment property

2 April

Purchasing an investment property is a major financial decision. For many Australians, it involves committing significant capital, taking on long-term debt, and relying on the property to help build wealth over time. Investment properties can...[Read More]

Starting or restarting a Fitness Regime in Your 60s

2 April

If you’re over 60, regular exercise is essential for maintaining health, energy, and independence. It reduces the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.    However, starting or restarting a fitness regime...[Read More]