Blended families are increasingly common. Second marriages, de facto relationships, children from previous relationships, stepchildren, and shared assets accumulated over different lifetimes can add complexity to inheritance. Estate planning for blended families balances the need to provide for a surviving partner with the protection of your biological children's inheritance. A carefully considered plan can help to minimise stress for loved ones when you’re gone.

The rapidly evolving geo-political environment and rise of conflict in the world has investors concerned. With headlines focusing on uncertainty, it’s natural to feel unsettled but when it comes to investing it’s important to take a long-term view. 

While events such as the current conflict with Iran can have a significant short-term impact on share markets and superannuation returns, these events are part and parcel of any long-term investment journey. History tells us that every crisis, market downturn and recession comes to an end.

When you think about financial planning, do you find yourself focusing on numbers - returns, account balances, or how much you should be investing? This is very common, but as financial advisers we always ask a crucial question, ‘how much risk are you actually comfortable taking?’ Knowing your risk tolerance allows us to create a financial plan that not only works on paper but in real life for you.

Managing your money doesn’t have to feel dull or restrictive. A good financial plan should leave room for joy - the holidays, the dinners out, the little luxuries that make life meaningful. When your goals aren’t clear, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking there’s never enough left over for fun. A financial adviser can help you map out a future that balances both responsibility and reward.

Most of us would rather avoid thinking about what would happen if we were unable to work again due to a total and permanent disability or injury. Jane’s story is a powerful reminder of the value of having Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance in place should you find yourself in this unlucky situation.

This week, Treasurer Jim Chalmers has announced several significant superannuation tax changes. Here’s what you need to know. The super sector has welcomed the proposal as a significant improvement over the original plan, which would have imposed a tax on increases in the value of super balances, even if you hadn't sold the underlying assets. These are unrealised or paper gains. Usually, tax only applies once you sell something.

As you approach retirement, the idea of downsizing your home may appeal.  Reasons to move into a smaller residence often include an empty nest with smaller space requirements, the desire for less maintenance or to free up cash so you can tick off a few bucket list items, add to your retirement fund or make other investments.  Before you act, it is important to do your research and look at the pros and cons, considering your unique circumstances.

The security of owning your home outright is a goal most of our clients share. Paying off your mortgage can free up cash for travel, building retirement savings and other long-term plans. If you have paid down your home loan, it is a great opportunity for wealth creation. We spoke to Adviser, Paul Korst about his thoughts on maximising the surplus cash flow once your mortgage is paid.