A growing number of parents and grandparents are stepping in to help the next generation buy a home. But while the generosity comes from the heart, the financial and legal implications can be anything but simple - especially when family dynamics,...
Retirement Advice Articles
Aged care concerns? Just ask Nicole
On 1 July rules on funding and delivery of Age Care were set to undergo significant changes. The main changes were the result of the Royal Commission into Age Care Quality and Safety and aim to make the delivery of care safer, and people are treated with...
How small financial changes can reap big rewards
Retirement offers an exciting new chapter in life — but it also often brings a range of financial decisions that aren’t always straightforward. Daniel and Emma recently reached out to Retirement Essentials for much-needed assistance. Their meeting with...
The moment of need: a daughter’s reflection
My parents listened differently when the advice came from someone outside the family. I’ve worked in aged care advice for many years. I know the rules, the timelines, the options. Through the advisers I’ve trained, I’ve helped countless families navigate...
Don’t make money mistakes that you can’t undo
It’s never too late to manage your money more effectively whether for – or already in – retirement. But there are some money mistakes that should be avoided at all costs – those that can leave you with a lifetime of regret. Today we recount stories of five...
Three ways to reach your retirement sweet spot
There’s no such thing as a perfect job, marriage or retirement life. We can always aim for perfection, but most mature adults soon realise that a ‘good enough’ situation usually suits them just fine. When it comes to retirement, the ‘good enough’...
How interest rates affect retirees
Saul Eslake explains The Reserve Bank meets on Tuesday 20 May. This is one of eight scheduled meetings each year. The decision the Monetary Policy Board takes may affect your retirement income. We spoke with respected independent financial commentator, Saul...
Sensible actions for retirees in volatile times
Retirement is a time for enjoying the fruits of years of hard work, but it also comes with a need for careful financial management. Volatile market conditions, whether due to economic uncertainty, geopolitical events, or market fluctuations, can leave...
Mixing lump sums with income: Balancing flexibility, timing and risk
Martin, 68, recently retired and is considering withdrawing a $70,000 lump sum from his superannuation to purchase a new car, embark on a long-awaited holiday, and keep some funds in reserve. However, with recent market fluctuations, he’s concerned about the...