‘Beats to its own drum’: rates on hold in surprise call – cash rate kept at 3.85 per cent

8 July

Mortgage holder hopes have been dashed by the Reserve Bank of Australia’s surprise decision to keep interest rates on hold. Going against expectations of most financial market participants and economists tipping a 25 basis point cut, the central...[Read More]

The power of planning: why to-do lists and long-term goals improve your life

3 July

In a fast-paced world where distractions are endless and demands seem to grow by the day, having a clear plan can be the difference between feeling in control and feeling overwhelmed.  Whether it’s jotting down a few tasks on a sticky note each...[Read More]

Travelling with an older parent: creating lasting memories across generations

3 July

Travelling with an aging parent can be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. Whether it’s a road trip along the coast, a countryside escape, or an overseas adventure, these shared moments can strengthen bonds, uncover family...[Read More]

The art of parenting with heart – harmonising guidance and friendship

3 July

Navigating the dual roles of being a parent and a friend to your children presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This delicate balance requires careful consideration of boundaries, communication, and emotional intelligence.    The...[Read More]

Investment properties: the right strategy and insurance for success

3 July

For high-net-worth individuals and couples, investing in property is a time-tested way to grow and protect wealth. A well-chosen investment property can deliver strong capital appreciation, consistent rental income, and a hedge against...[Read More]

Insurance coverage for young professionals and why advice is needed

3 July

As a young professional embarking on a career, financial security and long-term stability may not always seem like immediate priorities.  However, securing the right insurance coverage early in life can provide essential protection against...[Read More]

Things to consider and questions to ask your landlord when renting a property to live in

3 July

Renting a property is a significant decision that can impact your lifestyle, financial situation, and overall comfort.  Whether you’re moving into your first apartment, relocating for work, or downsizing, understanding the rental process and...[Read More]

Better times ahead for economy, despite global woes

3 July

Australia’s economy is tipped to strengthen over the next few years despite the uncertain global backdrop, but may stagnate without serious tax reforms. While Australia’s economic growth hit speed bumps early in of 2025 from Cyclone Alfred,...[Read More]

Nest eggs on the boil as super guarantee cracks open

3 July

Workers will receive a boost to retirement contributions as a long-awaited lift to the superannuation guarantee kicks in, but further increases are unlikely any time soon. The rate of super employers are required to pay employees increased from 11.5...[Read More]

Higher wages and bills among changes to take effect

3 July

TOP CHANGES COMING INTO EFFECT ON OR AFTER JULY 1: PAYMENTS AND SUPER * About three million workers on the minimum and award wages will receive a 3.5 per cent pay rise following a decision by the Fair Work Commission * The superannuation guarantee...[Read More]

House prices creep higher as new building lags target

3 July

Australia remains short of hundreds of thousands of homes as low supply and falling interest rates drive property prices ever higher. Home values accelerated to a 0.6 per cent rise in June and a fifth straight month of growth, property analytics...[Read More]

Retail sales rebound as interest rate call looms

3 July

Retail sales rebounded as cooler temperatures sent Australian consumers flocking back to the shops in search of winter apparel. Household spending has been subdued to start the year but retail turnover rose 0.2 per cent in May, the Australian Bureau...[Read More]

Pay penalties to be saved as workers score wage win

3 July

Workers on the minimum wage will get more money in a matter of days, as the employment minister pledges to enshrine workplace conditions. From the start of the financial year on Tuesday, workers on the minimum wage will get a 3.5 per cent pay lift,...[Read More]

Super funds spared billions after US axes ‘revenge tax’

3 July

Australian superannuation funds are breathing a sigh of relief after the US dropped a so-called “revenge tax” on foreign investors. The super industry had been ringing alarm bells over section 899 of President Donald Trump’s proposed “big...[Read More]

Red tape and silver bullets: tough task for housing fix

3 July

Where do you start in cutting back the “thickets of red tape” strangling Australia’s construction sector and putting the nation’s housing supply targets beyond reach? Brimming with a new-found supply-side progressive zeal, the federal...[Read More]