Tax Time! Don’t Forget Your Investment Income
The path to home ownership in Australia keeps getting tougher, forcing buyers and owners to consider flexible loan structures. These options can ease monthly repayments in the short term but come with an important caveat: you’ll pay substantially more interest over the life of the loan. If you’re weighing up a home loan option that defers part of the debt burden to the future, here’s a straightforward look at commonly used structures offering this temporary affordability.
Is Immediate Relief on your Mortgage Worth the Long-Term Cost?
The path to home ownership in Australia keeps getting tougher, forcing buyers and owners to consider flexible loan structures. These options can ease monthly repayments in the short term but come with an important caveat: you’ll pay substantially more interest over the life of the loan. If you’re weighing up a home loan option that defers part of the debt burden to the future, here’s a straightforward look at commonly used structures offering this temporary affordability.
The Real Cost of a 5% Deposit Mortgage
The government's 5% deposit scheme is a fantastic opportunity for first-home buyers, allowing you to enter the market sooner while avoiding Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI), which can easily save you $20,000-$30,000 upfront. However, it's important to look beyond this initial saving and consider the long-term trade-offs. Because a smaller deposit means a larger loan, the financial relief of skipping LMI can be quickly overshadowed by the strain of higher monthly repayments and the staggering amount of extra interest you'll pay over the life of the loan.
How to Maximise Your Age Pension
Making the most of the Age Pension isn’t about dizzying formulas or dry legal jargon — it’s about everyday choices that genuinely shape comfort and security in retirement. From turning the family home into an even greater asset, to simple steps like updating how much Centrelink thinks your car is worth, these practical strategies are based on real stories and proven tips that can help retirees enjoy a worry-free retirement, stretch every dollar further, and feel confident about their financial future.
September 2025 Market Updates
In September 2025, the Australian ASX 200 lagged while the US S&P 500 hit record highs after a Federal Reserve rate cut and strong tech earnings. Australia’s housing market showed steady growth, supported by low supply and new first-home buyer incentives, as the Reserve Bank of Australia awaits key inflation data before deciding on further rate changes
Who Would Your Super Fund Pay?
When you think about your superannuation, you probably focus on growing it for retirement. But have you considered what happens to it if you pass away? It’s a common myth that your super is automatically covered by your Will. In most cases, it isn’t. Your super is held in a trust, and the fund's trustee is responsible for paying it out. To ensure your money goes to the right people, you need to give the trustee clear instructions. This is done by nominating a beneficiary. Let's look at the fundamentals.
Talking to Your Family About Your Will
It's one of those difficult chats we often put off, but talking to your family about your will and estate plan is one of the most important things you can do. It's not about being morbid; it's about being responsible. Having this discussion can prevent future misunderstandings, reduce family conflict, and ensure your wishes are known and respected.
Imparting Financial Habits to Your Children
Teaching children about money is one of the most valuable lessons a parent can offer. It goes far beyond simply giving them pocket money; it’s about shaping their mindset for a financially secure future. By instilling a few core habits early on, you can move beyond basic saving and start building the foundation of a true investor.