Around 2.8 million of Australia’s lowest-paid workers got a 4.75% pay rise from July 1 this year, after the latest Who benefits from this decision Announcing the wage rises, Justice Adam Hatcher said this was a “particularly challenging” decision, especially due to the “wild card of the Middle East conflict” and its ongoing price shocks … Read more
A range of superannuation changes that came into effect on 1 July 2026, are reinforcing the role of super as one of the most tax-effective investment structures available. For many investors, it’s not simply that super remains attractive but that the rules continue to change. Understanding these changes can help ensure your strategy takes advantage … Read more
Understanding your risk profile is one of the most important steps you can take as an investor. It helps shape how your money is invested and whether you’ll feel comfortable staying the course when markets rise and fall. How much risk can you tolerate? Your attitude to risk is one of the most important factors … Read more
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
