Women need a plan for ‘early’ retirement

Women need a plan for ‘early’ retirement   We know women generally live longer than men, but new research shows the majority of Australian women are unlikely to work past the age of 65, making it more important than ever for them to take control of their finances early and plan appropriately for life after work. The latest AMP.NATSEM Report, Going the distance: Working longer, living healthier, has revealed the gender gap in the Australian workforce …

Heard of trauma insurance?

Heard of trauma insurance? Here’s how it can help you and your family With half of all Australian men and one-third of Australian women expected to be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85[1], many families are learning first-hand how an illness can interrupt even the best arranged plans. When the mortgage and school fees still have to be paid, every family deserves to be able to maintain their lifestyle, while working towards getting …

Seven steps to cutting debt

  Seven steps to cutting debt It’s time to drop your debt weight and get financially fit.  You enjoy a challenge – right? Then step towards financial fitness by cutting your debts this year. Understand and embrace your debt. Firstly, work out where and what type of debt you have and start to plan how you’re going to cut it down. For example, if you roll multiple debts into one, you may save on fees …

3 ways to get a foot on the property ladder

3 ways to get a foot on the property ladder Creative ideas for younger Australians to invest in property It won’t come as a huge surprise to learn that Australian homes are among the most expensive in the world. In a recent survey[1] every Australian town and suburb was rated as ‘seriously’ or ‘severely’ unaffordable. And if you’re in a capital city it’s even worse, with the average Sydney home costing nine times average household …

4 ways to make more retirement hay while the sun shines

4 ways to make more retirement hay while the sun shines The latest AMP.NATSEM report, Going the distance: Working longer, living healthier, has found that although the pension age may rise to 70 if the Government’s proposed legislation passes, many people in their 60s simply aren’t going to be healthy enough to work that long. The report found that in 2035 one in four men and one in five women aged 60-69 are expected to …

Renovate your way to a better property

Renovate your way to a better property Some tips to get the most out of your renovation, whether you’re staying or going Granite bench tops, sleek Euro appliances, free-floating staircases, a marble bathroom or a new pool…the possibilities are endless. But sadly your budget is limited. So where to start? The first question to ask is—are you going to sell up or stay where you are? Renovating to live If you’re renovating for the long …

Seven tips to travel on a budget

Seven tips to travel on a budget  Careful planning can help you enjoy a great holiday, whatever your budget Does it feel like ages since your last holiday? Maybe with responsibilities like paying off your credit card, saving for your first home, or paying back your university fees, your next holiday still seems a long way off… Well, don’t despair. There are plenty of ways to take a break without breaking the budget. Go social—Check …

How can you give your kids money smarts?

How can you give your kids money smarts? Children learn a lot from their parents when it comes to money—arm yours for financial success. When it comes to money, your own behaviour and attitudes can strongly influence your kids.  Help your kids to be money smart by demonstrating positive money habits and teaching them valuable lessons as they grow older. Teaching money smarts Money management has always been important for children to learn about, especially …