Redundancy – What do I do first?

  If you’re one of the thousands who have been made redundant – either on a forced or voluntary basis – it can be hard to know what to do next.   Being made redundant can be shocking, unexpected and life changing. Losing your job can be one of the most dislocating and confronting experiences of your life, even when it’s an option you have actively chosen.   The good … [Read more...]

The Possible Benefits of ” Transition of Retirement”

Transition to Retirement Income streams were originally introduced in July 2005 to help Australians who wanted to transition to retirement via part-time work. By starting a TTR, you don’t have to retire to withdraw your super benefits. You can work part-time or full-time or even casually. There are three major potential benefits available. Boost your super savings With a transition to … [Read more...]

Superannuation: What are Concessional Caps?

Superannuation is a way to save for your retirement. The intent is to support you to have sufficient income in retirement so that you can live comfortably once you stop working and earning an income.   The money invested via superannuation comes from contributions made into your super fund by your employer and, ideally, topped up by your own money. In addition to that, sometimes the … [Read more...]

It’s a new financial year…get your money working harder for you

It’s a new financial year … get your money working harder for you   Now that you have reviewed your spending habits, set some goals and planned a budget, it’s time to review and potentially refine how you make your money work for you.   Rather than spending your income with the hope of having something left over to invest (which almost never works), set aside a portion of … [Read more...]

When can i access my super?

When can I access my super? While it is important to understand your superannuation and the integral role it plays in saving for your retirement, it is just as important to know when and how you can access your money. You don’t have to wait until you’re retired to start thinking about accessing your super. Generally speaking, you can access your super: When you reach preservation age and … [Read more...]

What is insurance in superannuation?

What is insurance in superannuation? Many super funds arrange life and disability cover for their members. Insurance is arranged by the super fund trustee, acting on behalf of the members of the fund. Having insurance for accidents and illness can provide a sense of security for you and your family. Deciding whether to have your insurance within superannuation or outside super can be a … [Read more...]

When do I need advice about my superannuation?

When do I need advice about my superannuation? With all that's happening in financial markets at the moment, it's only natural to be looking for help to make sense of it all. Like all of us, you want to know what the changing markets mean for you, your family, your savings and your future. And when it comes to seeking financial advice, the best time is now! If you are not sure when to seek … [Read more...]

What is “Super Consolidation”?

What is “Super Consolidation”? Have you worked for more than one employer in your career? How many super statements did you receive last year? If you found yourself thinking “I didn’t know I even had that super fund” or if you have lost track of your funds over the years as you have changed employment, then super consolidation may be the answer. Consolidating your super means rolling all of … [Read more...]

How Much Superannuation Will I Need?

How much Superannuation will I need? Your retirement may be a distant thought or it may be just around the corner. Either way, it's important to know you'll be able to afford the lifestyle you want and deserve. While Australian employers are required to contribute at least 9.5% of your salary to super, you need to work out if this will be enough for you to live comfortably in … [Read more...]

What is the difference between superannuation and other forms of investment?

When it comes to saving for retirement, superannuation is specifically designed to help you accumulate funds in an easy, tax-effective way. Unlike other investments, superannuation is compulsory for most Australians. This is to ensure that people save some money for retirement. In 1992 the federal government introduced the Superannuation Guarantee making it the law for employers to make … [Read more...]