How much do you really need to retire? It’s probably a lot less than $1 million

Every few months, someone in the superannuation industry declares that Australians now “need” around A$1 million to retire comfortably. It’s a big, scary number. But consumer advocates say most people can retire with far less. Independent estimates suggest something closer to $322,000 is enough for many retirees who own their own home. So who’s right … Read more

Insider trading

Acting on a hot tip might sound like a good idea when investing but if that hot tip is inside information, it might lead to heavy fines or prison time. What is insider trading? Insider trading is when you trade in a financial product (for example, shares, options or derivatives of a listed company) while … Read more

Searching for lost super

How to check for lost member super accounts. What is lost super Lost member super accounts are reported to the ATO by super funds. This happens where the member is either: uncontactable – your fund has lost contact with you and your account hasn’t received a contribution or rollover for 12 months. Changing your name, address … Read more

Creating a retirement financial plan

Start your retirement financial plan early Don’t wait until you’re getting close to retirement to start your plan. You have a greater chance of a comfortable retirement if you make your plan a priority early in your working life. A critical part of your retirement plan is superannuation, especially if home ownership is going to … Read more

Bills of exchange

Bills of exchange can look and sound similar to term deposits, but they do not have the same protections and carry a high risk of losing money. What is a bill of exchange Companies are offering high fixed income returns through a product called a bill of exchange. You may have seen offers promising higher … Read more

The property vs shares debate heats up

Property booms and market swings shape the case for property and shares Hot property markets and volatile share markets add extra intrigue as investors weigh up whether to put their money into property or equities. But the decision could come down to a few key considerations. Which is the better investment – property or shares? … Read more

Seniors face health insurance bill shock of up to $1,600 a year

Older Australians could face health insurance price rises three times higher than others under new government rebate changes. Here’s what families need to know. Older Australians could soon be paying significantly more for their private health insurance. The increase may hit them much harder than younger policyholders. New data from Private Healthcare Australia reveals that … Read more

Retirement income options when markets are volatile

The income assumptions many have carried into retirement are being tested in the current economic climate. Markets have lurched from one direction to another; interest rates have lifted faster than expected, with the possibility of more increases in the months ahead, and there’s no end in sight to the global uncertainty. While the market shocks … Read more

Finding balance in fixed income

Higher yields and income keep bonds resilient amid volatility The first quarter of 2026 has delivered no shortage of headlines, with sharp moves in energy prices, ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and shifting expectations around inflation and growth. Against that backdrop, bond market volatility has increased, but without the kind of breakdown seen in more challenging periods. … Read more

Five things to put in place before you retire

Take these steps to set yourself up for a confident transition to retirement For many Australians, the final couple of years before retirement can feel both exciting and unsettling at the same time. Work may be winding down, but the reality of living without a regular pay packet is getting closer. This is the stage … Read more

Choosing home insurance

Home insurance protects one of your most important assets. What is home insurance Home insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing your house when something goes wrong. It usually also covers other structures on your property, like a garage or inground pool. It doesn’t cover your household items and personal belongings though – they’re … Read more

Australian vs international shares – finding the right balance

Balancing Australian and global shares means weighing growth, income & currency risk Getting investment exposure to global companies through share markets makes sense, but weighing up risks such as currency fluctuations is important. Many Australians have a justified love affair with the domestic share market. The Australian share market has delivered solid long‑term returns for … Read more