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.

The Convenience and Cost-Effectiveness of Insurance in Super

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.

What Exactly is a Mortgage Broker?

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.

A Financial Adviser’s Guide to Smart End of Financial Year Planning

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.

Retirement Planning: Your Roadmap to Financial Freedom

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.

Navigating the complexities of personal finance can often feel like sailing in uncharted waters, and this includes finding a financial adviser. From managing daily budgets to planning for long-term goals like retirement, the journey is fraught with decisions that can have a lasting impact on your financial well-being. In Australia, the financial landscape is further shaped by a dynamic regulatory environment and a fluctuating number of professionals available to offer guidance. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to finding a good financial adviser, demystifying their role, and empowering you to make an informed choice that aligns with your personal financial journey.

The Shifting Tides of Financial Advice in Australia

The Australian financial advice industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Following the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry, the sector has seen a dramatic shift in regulations and a notable decline in the number of registered advisers.

Deciding whether or not to set up an SMSF is a significant financial decision that should not be taken lightly. Before you take the plunge, it’s essential to consider your personal circumstances carefully and whether you have the time, expertise, and commitment to manage your own super fund. Here are some key questions to ask yourself:

• Do you have the time and commitment? As we’ve seen, running an SMSF is a significant time commitment. You need to be prepared to spend a considerable amount of time on research, administration, and compliance. If you’re not prepared to put in the hard yards, an SMSF is probably not the right option for you.
• Do you have the financial and legal knowledge? You don’t need to be a financial expert to run an SMSF. Still, you do need to have a good understanding of financial markets, investment principles, and the laws that govern superannuation. If you’re not confident in your ability to manage your own investments and comply with the law, you should seek professional advice before setting up an SMSF.
• Is your super balance large enough? While there is no legal minimum balance for an SMSF, the costs of setting up and running a fund can be high. If your balance is too small, these costs will eat into your returns and you may be better off in a traditional super fund. As a general rule of thumb, many experts suggest that you should have at least $200,000 in super before you consider setting up an SMSF.
• Are you comfortable with the risks? With an SMSF, you are personally responsible for all investment decisions and the government’s compensation scheme does not cover you. You need to be comfortable with the risks involved and be prepared to accept the consequences of your decisions.

“Total and Permanent Disability Insurance” is designed to relieve financial pressure in case you become permanently disabled as a result of illness or injury.

The statistics paint a sobering picture: approximately 9 million Australians currently hold Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance, yet many remain underinsured or completely unaware of what their policies actually cover.

The harsh reality is that permanent disability doesn't discriminate. Whether you're a 25-year-old tradesperson or a 45-year-old office manager, the risk exists. What's more concerning is that many Australians discover the gaps in their coverage only when it's too late to address them. This article examines why TPD insurance deserves serious consideration in every working person's financial planning strategy, backed by current industry data and regulatory insights.