News

Retirement is often portrayed as a time of relief, yet for many Australian men, it brings anxiety rather than peace. Rising living costs, debt, and uncertainty around superannuation and how long savings will last can lead to financial stress. That stress doesn’t stay “just financial” — it spills over into health, relationships, and mental wellbeing. But financial planning isn’t just about numbers; done well, it provides clarity, control, and confidence.

This article examines recent findings about men’s financial stress, discusses why professional advice is important (including mental health expert views), and outlines how financial planners help with budgeting, debt management, and long-term wealth creation.

Before diving into techniques to save money, it’s worth pausing on why saving—even modest amounts—makes a difference.

1. Psychological and mental-health benefits
   People who practice stable financial behaviours (such as regularly saving and paying off credit card debt) report better mental health, vitality, social functioning and general wellbeing. In short, saving reduces financial stress, gives you breathing room, and contributes to emotional stability.

2. Beating “overspend drift” in Australia
   

   Many Australians have good intentions, but struggle to stick to them. According to a snapshot of Australian saving behaviour, while 68% of Australians report having saving goals, more than 37% say they don’t always follow through.

3. Compound impact over time
   The earlier you start—even with modest amounts—the more time your savings (or investments) have to grow. This principle underlies many behavioural strategies (e.g. “save more tomorrow”) used to encourage consistent saving.

Western Australia's economy is well-positioned for continued, albeit more moderate, growth in the coming years. The latest WA economy update confirms that the state's strong fiscal position, coupled with government investment in infrastructure and economic diversification, provides a solid foundation for navigating potential challenges. For investors, the housing market, particularly the unit segment, and the tourism sector present potential opportunities. However, it is crucial to remain mindful of the risks associated with global economic conditions and commodity price volatility.