Financial Planning

Income tax books stacked on top of each other on a messy desk with papers
Avoid the rush: Get ready for June 30 It seems like June 30 rolls around quicker every year, so why wait until the last minute to get your finances in order?

With all the disruption and special support measures of the past two years, it’s possible your finances have changed. So it’s a good idea to ensure you’re on track for the upcoming end-of-financial-year (EOFY).

Starting early is essential to make the most of opportunities on offer when it comes to your super and tax affairs. Read more
Man looking at his laptop and iphone which have his stock trades displayed
How to calm those market jitters It’s been a rocky start to the year on world markets but that doesn’t mean you should hit the panic button. Staying the course is generally the best course, but that’s easier said than done when there’s a big market fall. Read more
Older couple walking side by side on the beach
Easing into retirement As the nation drifts back to work after the summer break, it’s often a time to start putting your New Year’s resolutions into practice. For some, an extended holiday may have convinced you that you are ready for more of the good life and that it’s time to retire.

In the past, that would have meant leaving work for good. These days, retirement is far more fluid.

You might simply want to wind back your working hours. Or you may want to leave your full-time job but keep your career ticking over with part-time or consulting work. Others may dream of leaving the nine to five to run a B&B or buy a hobby farm. Read more
Family of four and a dog posing on the beach
Tree change or sea change on the horizon? Australians are leaving capital cities in droves in a phenomenon being referred to as ‘The Great Relocation’. However, there’s a lot to consider beyond the obvious appeal of waking up to the laughter of kookaburras or enjoying a long walk on the beach. Read more
Little wood play house with a set of keys next to it
SMSFs and property: What are the rules? With the property market hitting all-time highs in 2021, interest in investing in direct property through your SMSF has never been higher.

In the September 2021 quarter, Australia’s SMSFs had almost $88 billion invested in non-residential real property, with another $47 billion in residential real property.

But before you add property investments to your SMSF, there are rules you need to be aware of. Read more