Superannuation
Federal Budget 2024-25 Analysis
What does the Federal Budget mean for me? Treasurer Jim Chalmers has high hopes that his 2024 Federal Budget will rein in inflation earlier than expected, ease cost-of-living pressures and build a stronger economy in the future. It’s a Budget for the here and now, he says, but also for the decades to come. More…
Understanding the new $3m super tax
The much-debated tax on superannuation balances over $3 million is inching closer and those who may be affected should ensure they have considered the implications. Although it is not yet law, the Division 296 tax should be taken into account when it comes to investment strategy and planning, particularly in relation to any end-of-financial-year contributions…
Should I buy insurance through my super?
While we all hope for good health, the reality is that some of us may struggle at times with sickness or injury. And that may affect your family’s financial wellbeing. Different types of life insurance or personal insurance can provide an income when you’re unable earn, or a lump sum to protect your loved ones…
Flexing your retirement plans
The concept of retirement plans are changing, with fewer people working towards a final retirement date and then clocking off for good. Instead, those who have the flexibility to choose are often transitioning out of the workforce over several years, or even returning after a break. Whether you simply want to wind back your working…
How much super do I need to retire?
Working out how much super you need to save for retirement is a question that keeps many pre-retirees awake at night. Recent market volatility and fluctuating superannuation balances have only added to the uncertainty. So it’s timely that new research shows you may need less than you fear. For most people, it will certainly be…
A super end to the financial year
As the end of the financial year approaches, now is a good time to check your super fund and see what you could do to boost your retirement nest egg. What’s more, you could potentially reduce your tax bill at the same time. There are a handful of positive changes to super due to start…
Superannuation Downsize Incentive
Is it a good idea to downsize your home to upsize your super? By Rachel Lane Since 1 July 2018 Australian seniors have been able to make what is known as a “Downsizer Contribution” to their superannuation fund of up to $300,000, which means if you are a couple, you could get a combined $600,000…
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…
Finally, a super idea for extra retirement income
The federal government’s recent “Retirement Income Review” pointed out that many retirees live on just the income from their superannuation, rather than drawing down on the balance as they progress through retirement. This seems to be partly due to the major misunderstanding that this is how the system is supposed to work, and partly because…
Counting down to June 30
It’s been a year of change like no other and that extends to tax and superannuation. As the end of the financial year approaches, now is a good time to check some new and not so new ways to reduce tax and boost your savings. With so many of us confined to our homes over…
Managing investment risk in uncertain times
2020 exposed investors to the end of a bull market and the start of a global recession, all caused by a totally unexpected global pandemic. The outlook for the global economy and investment markets remains uncertain until an effective vaccine is available. While there is cause for optimism now that vaccines are becoming available, the…
Strategies to rebuild super after early access
If you’ve accessed your super early due to COVID, there are a number of strategies that can help you get your super back on track, when the time is right. Three strategies to rebuild your super There are three key strategies that could help you boost your retirement savings between now and retirement. 1. Allocate some…