Investing in real estate often feels simultaneously attractive (tangible asset, potential for rent and capital gains) and scary (big sums, risk, uncertainty). For new Property Investors in Australia, the fears are real, backed by data. Below, I discuss the main concerns, evidence for them, and how to reduce their impact through good planning and professional…
Financial planning is often seen mainly as numbers, spreadsheets, superannuation, investments, maybe tax or estate matters. But there is growing evidence—both in Australia and internationally—that a structured, intentional financial planning process brings psychological benefits: less stress, more life satisfaction, better resilience. One foundational work is Kym A. Irving’s “The Financial Life Well-Lived: Psychological Benefits of…
Many people assume that having a will is sufficient estate planning. But in Australia, a will is only one part of a broader, more complex set of decisions. Not fully planning can lead to legal uncertainty, family conflict, tax inefficiencies, loss of asset value, and an emotional burden on loved ones. Below are key reasons…
Splitting Superannuation (also called contribution splitting) is a strategy that allows one spouse (or de facto partner) to transfer (in effect) part of the super contributions (before-tax/concessional contributions) made in a financial year into the other spouse’s super account. The key idea is not splitting the current super balance, but splitting certain contributions made in…
In today’s uncertain global economy, knowing exactly what you want from your investments has never been more important. The financial environment is evolving quickly. Shifts in global power such as the rise of BRICS, the growing influence of cryptocurrencies, the strong performance of gold and silver, and renewed interest in mining stocks all add layers…
Being self-employed offers independence, flexibility, and control. But with that comes extra financial responsibility and risk. Unlike employees who have regular pay, tax withholding, employer superannuation, leave, etc., you must manage much of that yourself. If you don’t plan, it’s easy for unexpected shocks, cash shortfalls, or misfortune to derail both business and personal finances.…
Definition and basic idea A managed investment scheme (MIS) in Australia is a pooling vehicle: many investors contribute money (or something of value) to acquire interests in the scheme, the contributions are pooled or used for a common purpose, and investors do not have day-to-day control over how the scheme is run. (Dentons) The Corporations…
Debt is a normal part of modern life, but managing multiple credit cards, personal loans, and other financial commitments can be stressful. One option Australians often consider is a debt consolidation loan—rolling several debts into a single repayment, usually with a lower interest rate or a more manageable schedule. While this can be useful, it…
Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs) have become an increasingly popular choice among Australians who want more control over their retirement savings. According to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), there are over 610,000 SMSFs with more than 1.1 million members, controlling nearly one-third of the country’s superannuation assets. While SMSFs offer flexibility, tax strategies, and the ability…
Investing means putting money somewhere now, in hope it will grow (or give you income) in the future. Rather than leaving cash under your mattress (or in a low-interest savings account), investing involves accepting some risk in return for a chance of better returns than inflation or simple savings. Returns might come from: capital growth…
