Investing for the long run—whether over decades through your working life into retirement, or preserving wealth for future generations—requires more than picking assets. It requires habits, mindset, structure and an understanding of the current economic setting. Below are key principles and tips for long term investors in Australia, supported by research, followed by guidance on when and why to consider using a professional financial planner.
Retirement is often imagined as a time when many expenses fall away: no commuting, children grown, fewer professional clothes, maybe paid work is reduced or stops. In many cases, that’s true. However, other expenses for retirees remain high—or even increase—especially in areas such as health, aged care, and the cost of living more generally. As retirees enter their 80s and 90s, these costs can shift sharply, making planning vital. One of the biggest concerns is the overall expense for retirees.
Here are key expenses for retirees, categorised by type, what tends to happen to them over time, relevant data, and some practical tips for managing them.
In an increasingly complex financial world, many Australians are faced with the challenge of managing their finances effectively and are increasingly turning to a financial planner for assistance in achieving their long-term goals. From navigating volatile investment markets to planning for a comfortable retirement, the decisions can be overwhelming. This article explores the benefits of engaging a professional financial planner in Australia. It will delve into the services they provide, the process a new client can expect, and the statistical evidence that demonstrates the tangible value financial planners can bring to an investment portfolio.
Financial planning is not just for the wealthy; it is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to take control of their financial future. A qualified financial planner can provide the expertise, discipline, and guidance needed to navigate the complexities of the financial landscape and make informed decisions that align with your personal objectives.
In a nation known for its high quality of life and robust economy, a troubling paradox of people living paycheck to paycheck has emerged. Despite record-high employment figures, a significant portion of the Australian population finds itself in a state of financial precariousness. Recent data reveals a stark reality: half of all Australian workers are living paycheck to paycheck, struggling to accumulate savings or build a buffer against unexpected expenses [1]. This ongoing situation of living paycheck to paycheck continues to impact many lives.
A separate survey underscores this, finding that 48.4% of Australians either live paycheck to paycheck or save less than 10% of their income, while one in three have recently missed a bill or credit payment [2]. This situation, often described as a cost-of-living crisis, is not a sudden event but the culmination of decades of economic transformation. What is the solution to this problem?
In the pursuit of financial security, Australians diligently build their wealth through savings, investments, and superannuation but often overlook Income protection insurance. Yet, the most foundational asset underpinning this entire structure is often the most overlooked: the ability to earn an income. An unexpected illness or injury can instantly remove this cornerstone, jeopardising everything from daily living expenses to long-term financial goals.
Income Protection Insurance is essential for safeguarding your earnings against unforeseen circumstances.
While many recognise the need for a safety net, a startling number of individuals fall into preventable traps when selecting income protection insurance, leaving them dangerously exposed when they need help the most. We will explore what this insurance is, why it is a non-negotiable component of a robust financial plan, and, most importantly, the common and costly mistakes people make when comparing policies.
Understanding the nuances of Income Protection Insurance can significantly influence your financial stability.
Death and Disability Insurance is often included in the superannuation of many Australians, which is a cornerstone of their retirement planning. Beyond its role in building a nest egg for the future, your super fund can also provide a crucial safety net for you and your family in the event of unforeseen tragedy. This safety net comes in the form of life insurance, together with Death and Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) cover.
While it's possible to purchase this insurance as a standalone policy, holding it within your superannuation fund offers significant advantages for most people. This article will explore the value of including Death and Disability Insurance (TPD) cover in your super, the differences in tax treatment, what it means to be considered disabled for the purposes of a TPD claim, and why seeking professional advice is paramount in making these important financial decisions.
One of the most significant benefits of holding Death and Disability Insurance (TPD) cover within your superannuation is the cost-effectiveness. Super funds purchase insurance policies in bulk, which allows them to negotiate lower premiums than an individual could typically obtain on their own. This is known as group insurance. These lower premiums are then passed on to the fund's members.
In the journey of life, we plan for milestones, but unfortunately, Trauma Insurance and Income Protection Insurance are seldom considered; buying a home, starting a family, and building a career take precedent. Yet, few of us like to plan for the unexpected detours, like a serious illness or an injury that stops us from working. The financial fallout from such an event can be just as devastating as the health crisis itself. In Australia, two of the most critical safety nets you can put in place are Trauma Cover and Income Protection insurance. However, they are often misunderstood, leaving many people either underinsured or with the wrong type of cover for their needs.
This article, drawing on extensive research from government bodies, industry regulators, and market data, will demystify these two essential policies. We will explore what each one is, dissect their differences, weigh their pros and cons, and show how they can work together to create a robust financial shield. This information serves as a guide and is not a substitute for personalised financial advice.
Navigating the Australian property market can feel like setting sail on a vast and complex ocean. With countless lenders, ever-changing interest rates, and a sea of paperwork, it’s easy to feel adrift. This is where a good mortgage broker can act as your financial navigator, steering you towards the safe harbour of a suitable home loan. But with so many brokers to choose from, how do you find the right one for you? This guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision, ensuring your journey to homeownership is as smooth as possible.
Think of a mortgage broker as a personal shopper for your home loan. They act as a go-between, connecting you with a range of banks and other lenders to find a mortgage that fits your unique financial situation. In Australia, the mortgage broking industry has seen a phenomenal rise in popularity. In fact, as of March 2025, a staggering 76.8% of all new residential home loans were settled by mortgage brokers [1]. This isn't just a fleeting trend; it's a testament to the value that a good broker can bring to the table.
End of Financial Year or June 30 (as it's commonly referred to) looms, and pressure starts to build. For many Australians, it’s a time of frantic document gathering. There’s also a sense of dread about the tax bill to come. But what if you could change that narrative? What if End of Financial Year became a moment of empowerment, a chance to take control of your financial future? With a bit of forward thinking and the proper guidance, it absolutely can be. This isn't just about compliance; it's about making your money work smarter for you.
This article will unpack why End of Financial Year planning is important for your finances. It will explore how a good financial advisor can be your best asset in this process. Finally, it will detail how the landscape of financial advice has been reshaped for the better by the Future of Financial Advice (FOFA) reforms.
Retirement. For many, the word conjures images of leisurely days, exotic travels, and the freedom to finally pursue long-held passions. But for a startling number of Australians, the prospect of their golden years is clouded by financial anxiety. A recent UniSuper study found that over 90% of us are worried about retirement, with money being the top concern for nearly half [1]. This widespread apprehension isn’t unfounded; it’s often the result of a few common, and entirely avoidable, missteps in the retirement planning journey.
This isn’t just another article about saving for retirement. It’s a practical guide to help you sidestep the ten most common blunders that can seriously dent your retirement savings. We’ll break down the retirement planning process into simple, manageable steps and give you the tools and knowledge to build a future you can look forward to with genuine excitement, not trepidation.
