Families

Following years of ultra-low interest rates, discussion is rising amongst economists about a sooner-than-expected interest rate rise. The Reserve Bank of Australia has indicated that if economic recovery continues faster than expected, then the timing of interest rate rises would be brought forward from the RBA’s previous suggestion of 2024. Which raises the question, for the six million home loans... Read more

The NSW Government recently announced additional programs to support businesses following the Omicron wave. The following measures have been introduced/expanded. The 2022 Small Business Support Program For businesses with a turnover of $75,000 – $50 million that experienced a minimum 40% decline in turnover due to the impacts of Covid in January 2022 (compared to January 2021 or 2020) and... Read more

Legislation has finally been passed to give effect to the key superannuation changes proposed in the 2021 Federal Budget. The legislated changes include: Removal of the work-test requirement for non-concessional contributions and salary sacrifice contributions, for individuals aged between 67 and 75. Extending eligibility to make non-concessional contributions under the bring-forward rule to individuals aged under 75 at the beginning... Read more

If you are classified as a foreign person and purchase residential property in NSW, you will have to pay an eight percent surcharge on the value of the property. This is in addition to any applicable stamp duty. It is important to note that you are generally classified as a foreign person, unless: You are an Australian citizen, or You... Read more

It is estimated that 185,000 older people in Australia experience some form of abuse or neglect each year. Abuse of older people can happen both inside and outside the home. It can also involve those who we love and trust. It can be challenging to identify abuse, as there is no single type of older person who is at risk,... Read more

Banks have outlined how they are supporting those affected by the coronavirus pandemic and its economic impacts. All members of the Australian Banking Association (ABA) will suspend principal and interest loan repayments for distressed small-business customers for six months. All four major banks (CBA, NAB, ANZ and Westpac) will also extend this to distressed home loan customers, enabling them to... Read more

Many people in the coming months will need to be in self-isolation, quarantine or potentially receiving treatment. This separation will make it harder for practical matters to be managed. There will be times that may need people to be formally authorised to make decisions for you. Having a power of attorney in place is the best way to be prepared... Read more

Two measures announced in the Government’s stimulus package are changes related to superannuation. Superannuation Pension Streams Reduced The Government is temporarily reducing superannuation minimum drawdown requirements for account-based pensions and similar products. This is of benefit to retirees holding these products, by reducing the need to sell investment assets to fund minimum drawdown requirements. The minimum annual amount that you’re... Read more

DIY “Will Kits” are not new and now many websites boast online Wills which promise to save hundreds on legal fees. The convenience and low price may seem initially appealing, however there are some significant disadvantages to preparing a Will without sound legal advice. 1. You Don’t Meet the Person Writing Your Will. This is the most significant issue with... Read more

With interest rates low, many Australian’s are looking to transition from renting to home ownership. Housing affordability continues to be a major challenge, however there are areas where home ownership could be a reality for renters. CoreLogic recently released data showing that more than a third of properties across Australia had estimated mortgage repayments that were less than weekly rental... Read more