Providing perks to employees If you provide work vehicles or other perks to employees – even if they’re provided occasionally – you may be providing a fringe benefit. This means you could have FBT obligations for the FBT year (1 April 2026 – 31 March 2027). Many businesses provide fringe benefits without realising it. Fringe benefits are non-cash perks … Read more
Older Australians could face health insurance price rises three times higher than others under new government rebate changes. Here’s what families need to know. Older Australians could soon be paying significantly more for their private health insurance. The increase may hit them much harder than younger policyholders. New data from Private Healthcare Australia reveals that … Read more
The income assumptions many have carried into retirement are being tested in the current economic climate. Markets have lurched from one direction to another; interest rates have lifted faster than expected, with the possibility of more increases in the months ahead, and there’s no end in sight to the global uncertainty. While the market shocks … Read more
With Payday Super approaching fast, now’s the time to look at how you pay super for independent contractors. While Payday Super doesn’t change who is eligible for super as the existing rules on eligibility remain the same, what does change is when you must pay super. If you’re currently required to pay super for an … Read more
Higher yields and income keep bonds resilient amid volatility The first quarter of 2026 has delivered no shortage of headlines, with sharp moves in energy prices, ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and shifting expectations around inflation and growth. Against that backdrop, bond market volatility has increased, but without the kind of breakdown seen in more challenging periods. … Read more
For many, the goal of investing is about creating wealth for a comfortable financial future, as well as a legacy that supports your children and grandchildren for decades to come. But one of the greatest risks to that legacy can be the challenge of dealing with sudden wealth. When adult children inherit large sums or … Read more
Property booms and market swings shape the case for property and shares Hot property markets and volatile share markets add extra intrigue as investors weigh up whether to put their money into property or equities. But the decision could come down to a few key considerations. Which is the better investment – property or shares? … Read more
Housing markets losing momentum as they face stronger headwinds The last quarter marked a clear shift in housing conditions, with growth continuing to slow and market performance becoming increasingly fragmented. According to Cotality’s June Home Value Index, national dwelling values rose 0.6 per cent over the quarter, reflecting a market that has moved from broad-based … Read more
Take these steps to set yourself up for a confident transition to retirement For many Australians, the final couple of years before retirement can feel both exciting and unsettling at the same time. Work may be winding down, but the reality of living without a regular pay packet is getting closer. This is the stage … Read more
Home insurance protects one of your most important assets. What is home insurance Home insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing your house when something goes wrong. It usually also covers other structures on your property, like a garage or inground pool. It doesn’t cover your household items and personal belongings though – they’re … Read more
Tax time is just around the corner, so now is the time to make sure you’re prepared for 30 June. Each year, the ATO highlights its areas of focus. Taking a few minutes now to review these can help you avoid issues when lodging your return. Work-related deductions under scrutiny This year, the ATO … Read more
Balancing Australian and global shares means weighing growth, income & currency risk Getting investment exposure to global companies through share markets makes sense, but weighing up risks such as currency fluctuations is important. Many Australians have a justified love affair with the domestic share market. The Australian share market has delivered solid long‑term returns for … Read more