Are you eligible for school subsidies?
Get up to speed with the government subsidies you may be able to claim before the kids go back to school. With 2018 now in motion, many parents and carers are looking at how they’ll cover school fees for the year ahead, not to mention other costs, such as uniforms, shoes, stationery and equipment. The […]
Have your cake and eat it come retirement
Retirement. It’s one of those things that always feels like it’s on the distant horizon, far enough away to think, ‘there’s plenty of time’. In your Twenties, retirement’s typically something that’s far from top of mind. Hit your Forties and Fifties, though, and all of sudden, it’s something you become acutely aware of. Fine if […]
Bitcoin – is it really for you?
If I could sum up the contents of my junk emails over the last 12 months in a single word it would be: Bitcoin. I can’t tell you how many unsolicited invitations I’ve received to start trading bitcoin – you may have experienced the same thing. This alone is a concern but when heavy hitters […]
How to sleep easier as a small business owner
Owning your own business can free you from the nine-to-five grind, help you fulfil your passion, create financial opportunities and give you more control over your life. It can also keep you awake at night. Just ask the two million or so Australians running small businesses1. So what are some of the traps […]
Navigating the volatility of the Australian housing market
There seems to be near-endless talk and speculation of a property bubble in Australia. Something you’ve no doubt noticed if you keep abreast of the news week in, week out. Okay, the Melbourne and Sydney property markets are hot, let’s face it. Depending on which side of the fence you’re on, that’s fantastic news, or, […]
12 ways to enjoy summer without spending a fortune
If you’re wondering how you’ll make ends meet this silly season, check out these tips on how to spend, without spending every cent. Summer in Australia can often be one of the busiest times of year with end-of-year work parties, Christmas, family gatherings, mini holiday breaks, not to mention New Year’s Eve and New Year’s […]
Going back to work after having a baby
Combining work commitments with family responsibilities can be something of a balancing act. We look at some of the expenses you might encounter as well as some of the financial benefits. The cost of childcare For most parents, the first thing that comes to mind when contemplating returning to work after having a child is […]
Ways to save money without spoiling your social life
If you can make your money go the distance, pay day can be a wonderful thing. However, if it means that 48 hours from now you’re likely to be scrounging for shrapnel wondering how you’re going to pay bills and eat for the next fortnight – you might want to rethink how you’re managing your […]
Will Australian House Prices Crash? five reasons why it’s more complicated than you think!
A common narrative on the Australian housing market is that it’s in a giant speculative bubble propelled by tax breaks, low interest rates and “liar loans” that have led to massive mortgage stress and that it’s all about to go bust, bringing down the banks and the economy with it. Recent signs of price falls […]
Should you lend money to family?
What you should consider before handing over your hard earned savings You’re probably fairly used to helping your family out with a little extra cash here and there. Whether it’s pocket money for doing chores, or money to pay phone bills, go see a movie or buy clothes, for example. But what happens when they […]