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Age pension, Budgeting, Investment markets, Lifestyle, Pre-retirees, Uncategorised

Donating to your kids

You’re retired and you’ve set yourself up well financially. You have no debt, no job to lose, no (or little) taxable income, no kids eating your fridge out and ready access to capital. You’re the envy of every financially stressed 40 year old with years of pressure head of them; possibly your own children. You wonder how you can help but you don’t want to just hand over cash without a purpose, and you also don’t want to create dependency or expectations.

Age pension, Aged care, Budgeting, Investment markets, Lifestyle, Pre-retirees, Retirees

Deeming Rates To Rise and Aged Pension Payments to Increase

From 20 September 2026, Australia's social security deeming rates will rise by 0.5%,

Age pension, Aged care, Budgeting, Government benefits, Investment markets, Lifestyle, Pre-retirees, Retirees

Fear of Running Out of Money in Retirement: How Australians Can Retire with Confidence

One of the biggest concerns facing Australians approaching retirement is the fear of running out of money. Financial experts have even coined a term for it: FORO (Fear of Running Out). While this anxiety is understandable, research suggests that many retirees may be more financially secure than they realise. By understanding the factors that influence retirement income and longevity, Australians can make more informed decisions and enjoy their retirement with greater confidence.

Investment markets, Pre-retirees, Retirees

Do You Really Know What’s Inside Your Super?

During recent client review meetings, I've noticed two concerns coming up regularly. The first is the growing dominance of large US technology companies and whether current valuations can continue rising. The second is rising government debt levels around the world, particularly in the United States and Australia, and whether governments are willing or able to address these issues over the long term.

Budgeting, Insurance, Investment markets, Lifestyle, Pre-retirees, Retirees

What to Consider Before Your First Financial Planning Meeting

Sitting down with a financial planner for the first time can feel a little daunting. You might be wondering what to bring, what will be asked, or simply whether you’re ready to share your personal financial information. The good news is that a first meeting is simply a conversation, and a bit of preparation goes a long way toward making it a productive one.

Budgeting, Investment markets, Lifestyle, Pre-retirees, Retirees

Tax Time Has Arrived: 10 Strategies to Consider Before Lodging Your Return

July marks the beginning of tax return season for millions of Australians. While many people are eager to lodge as soon as possible, taking the time to review your position and ensure you've captured all available deductions could make a significant difference to your overall tax outcome.

Budgeting, Investment markets, Lifestyle, Pre-retirees, Retirees

2026 Federal Budget Tax Reforms Become Law: What Investors Need to Know

The 2026 Federal Budget delivered some of the most significant tax changes to Australian investors in decades. Following the passage of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Tax Reform No. 1) Bill 2026, major reforms to both negative gearing and capital gains tax (CGT) are now legislated and will progressively take effect from 1 July 2027.

Budgeting, Investment markets, Lifestyle, Pre-retirees, Retirees

Wealth Transfer: More Than Just Passing It On

When most people think about passing on wealth, they picture a simple process: build it up over a lifetime, then hand it down to the next generation. In reality, it can be far more complex - and getting it right can make a significant difference to your family’s long-term financial wellbeing.

Budgeting, Government benefits, Investment markets, Lifestyle, Pre-retirees, Retirees

Trusts in focus – What the 2026 budget means for family structures

The recent Federal Budget has brought discretionary (family) trusts firmly back into the spotlight, with proposed changes that could reshape how these structures are used over the coming years. At the centre of the announcement is a proposal to introduce a minimum 30% tax on discretionary trust income, expected to apply from 1 July 2028. While not yet legislated, the measure signals a clear shift in policy direction.

Age pension, Aged care, Budgeting, Government benefits, Investment markets, Lifestyle, Pre-retirees, Retirees

Aged Care Higher Everyday Living Fee explained

The Higher Everyday Living Fee (HELF) has replaced the Extra Service Fee and Additional Service Fee as part of the new aged care rules which came into effect on 1 November 2025. The intent is to provide protection to residents purchasing additional services with their residential aged care.