Oct82025
Financial PlannersNewsWealth Protection How Large is Your Emergency Fund Buffer?

How Large is Your Emergency Fund Buffer?

Financial Planners, News, Wealth Protection

Life has a way of surprising us. Redundancies, health issues, rising interest rates, and unexpected bills can quickly destabilise even households that appear financially comfortable. Without an emergency fund buffer, these events can lead to spiralling debt, stress, and long-term setbacks. That is why building a financial safety net is one of the most important steps Australians can take toward financial security.

A financial safety net has two main components:

  1. An emergency buffer fund—readily accessible savings set aside for sudden expenses or income disruptions.

  2. Wealth protection products—insurance policies that provide income and financial stability in the face of illness, disability, or death.

This article explores both pillars in detail, explaining why they are essential, how much Australians should aim to set aside, the factors that influence the right level of savings, and the role professional financial planners play in tailoring strategies to individual households.

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Oct52025
Financial PlannersNews Pitfalls of DIY Financial Planning

The Pitfalls of DIY Financial Planning

Financial Planners, News

DIY financial planning can work for some, especially if finances are simple, you have good knowledge and discipline. But for many people, the downsides are significant. Here are key pitfalls, backed by evidence, to be aware of.

Key Questions to Ask Yourself Before Going DIY

If you're considering managing your finances independently, here are some essential questions to ask. Honest answers will help you see if DIY is viable, and where you need to bring in external help.

  1. What are my financial and life goals — short term and long term?
  2. How much of my financial situation is simple, and how much is complex?
  3. What is my knowledge base around investment, risk, tax, estate law, regulations?
  4. What is my tolerance for risk (loss, volatility, illiquidity)?
  5. How will I handle ongoing monitoring, reviews, and adjustments?
  6. Have I considered all costs — fees, taxes, time opportunity cost?
  7. Do I understand estate planning well enough to protect my heirs and my wishes?
  8. Am I aware of regulatory / legal environment and future changes?
  9. Do I know when I should / must seek professional help?
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Sep262025
Financial PlannersNews Getting Divorced

Getting Divorced Financially

Financial Planners, News

Getting divorced is one of the most challenging life events, not just emotionally but financially. In Australia, around 56,000 divorces were granted in 2022 alone, with the median duration of marriage being 12.2 years【ABS, 2023】. That means thousands of families each year face the complex task of dividing assets, restructuring household finances, and planning for an uncertain future.

For many Australians, the decisions made during this transition will shape their financial stability for decades. Early and professional financial advice can make the difference between long-term security and years of financial stress.

This article explains why financial planning during divorce is crucial, how assets should be assessed, the difficult trade-offs between property and superannuation, and the benefits of amicable agreements. It also highlights the role of a financial planner in protecting the future of both parties and any children involved.

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