Imagine being able to buy your own home with just a $12,000 deposit. That’s what the federal government’s new Help to Buy shared equity scheme can offer. But there are some pros and cons to be aware of. Let’s take a look.

Think back to 2022. That’s when the Labor government first proposed a new Help to Buy scheme. 

As the festive season approaches, there is a noticeable shift in the air. The days grow longer, school terms wrap up, and communities across the country begin to prepare for end-of-year celebrations in all kinds of ways.

Investing may be all about the numbers – growth, returns and risk – to build a secure future but increasingly investors are interested in an even more meaningful approach.

Four out of five respondents to a 2024 survey wanted their investments to have a positive impact in the world.ⁱ

It’s the season for gifts, sharing meals and spreading cheer. But what if your festive generosity could do more? What if it could ripple through generations, perhaps shaping futures and maybe reduce your tax bill?

Giving isn’t just an act of kindness; it can also be a smart financial move. From helping loved ones today to creating a legacy for future generations, strategic gifting can align with your broader financial goals.

An SMSF is a trust generally run for the sole purpose of providing retirement benefits to its members. Generally, it's illegal for anyone to benefit from the SMSF outside this arrangement.

Individuals are being targeted to start an SMSF for a range of inappropriate and illegal reasons.

Get the right amount of home insurance and protect yourself from costly surprises.

When disaster strikes, the last thing you want to discover is that your insurance doesn’t stretch far enough. Underinsurance is very common in Australia and most people don’t know they are underinsured. And it can leave you significantly out of pocket when you make a claim.

Protecting income from unexpected illness and injury is particularly important to anyone with a mortgage to service, small business owners and self-employed people with no sick leave available.

Risk is not just associated with investing though - life can throw a curve ball or two and insurance is one way to manage risk in a broader context.

It’s a matter of weighing up your risks and thinking about what you would do if the worst happened.

While we all hope for good health, the reality is that some of us may struggle at times with sickness or injury. And that may affect your family’s financial wellbeing.

Different types of life insurance or personal insurance can provide an income when you’re unable earn, or a lump sum to protect your loved ones if the worst happens.

With the cost of living on the rise, it’s more important than ever to have a financial safety net that protects you and your family in case the unexpected happens.