The income assumptions many have carried into retirement are being tested in the current economic climate. “It’s easy to feel uncertain when markets are volatile or the headlines seem overwhelming. In my experience, having a well-considered plan and someone to guide you through the decisions can provide enormous peace of mind. Often it’s not about…
Life is a series of chapters, each with its own hopes, challenges, and priorities. From starting your first job, welcoming a family, navigating separation, caring for ageing parents, transitioning into retirement, or embracing life on your own terms each stage brings new decisions that impact your long-term financial wellbeing. That’s why your financial strategy shouldn’t…
As we tick over into a new year, many of us feel the instinctive pull for change – a desire to feel better, do better and make life feel more aligned to our values and goals. While this wave of motivation is in full force, it can quickly fade if you don’t have direction and…
Retirement has often been seen as a time to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of daily life. And for many, that’s the dream. But retirement is no longer defined by one image or one path. In fact, it can be something much more expansive. Today, retirement is increasingly viewed as a time of…
The best time to start planning for retirement is yesterday. But the second-best time? Today. About two-thirds of Australians retire earlier than they anticipated because of unexpected events such as job loss or redundancy, they need to care for a family member, have a sudden illness or injury, problems at work or a partner’s decision…
For clients holding older, asset test-exempt superannuation pensions, known as legacy pensions, there are significant changes ahead. These pensions, once popular for their generous Centrelink treatment, have long been difficult to alter without risking unintended financial consequences. But recent government updates have created a window of opportunity, along with a clear warning: don’t move too…
When and how you can access your super to start an account-based pension. If our working years can be regarded as the time when we aim to build up our superannuation savings, our retirement years can equally be regarded as the time when we aim to spend them. At least that’s the objective for most…
With the new financial year comes a fresh wave of superannuation changes that could make a real difference to your retirement savings. Let’s unpack what’s changing – and how to make the most of it. The SG rate hits 12% One obvious lift to retirement incomes is the increase in the Super Guarantee (SG) rate…
Retirement might be just around the corner, or maybe you’ve recently crossed that exciting threshold. You’ve worked hard for decades, and now ready to trade in the alarm clock for leisurely mornings and to-do lists that are actually fun. But as you move into the next phase of your life; a thought might cross your…
Check your super When you start to plan for retirement, you’ll need to check your super: You can do this in 5 simple steps with the ATO’s super health check. For most people it only takes a few minutes. It’s important to know your total super balance and contributions caps, especially if you plan to contribute to your super. When…