The RBA conflict that could decide its next rates call

2 April

A conflict at the heart of the Reserve Bank’s mandate could determine the outcome of its next interest rates decision. Minutes from the central bank’s March meeting published on Tuesday revealed a split between the five members who voted for a...[Read More]

A life well lived: Reflections from aged care on living without regret

2 April

Sitting quietly by the window in an aged care home, watching the sun stretch across the garden, there is a unique clarity that comes with time. Life slows down, but reflection deepens. The noise of ambition fades, and what remains are the moments,...[Read More]

Starting or restarting a Fitness Regime in Your 60s

2 April

If you’re over 60, regular exercise is essential for maintaining health, energy, and independence. It reduces the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.    However, starting or restarting a fitness regime...[Read More]

Scam alert: Personal loan scams

2 April

What’s happening Scammers are setting up fraudulent websites offering personal loans. They are also posting online advertisements for their services on social media platforms. Once your application for a loan is approved, you’ll receive an...[Read More]

CBA ups inflation prediction as supply chains strain

2 April

Economists at Australia’s largest lender have issued a dire warning for consumers, forecasting inflation to scale new heights as hopes of a quick resolution to the Iran war fade. The Commonwealth Bank (CBA) expects headline inflation to peak at...[Read More]

Surcharge fees no more, but will consumers save a buck?

2 April

WHAT’S CHANGING * Surcharges costing consumers $1.6 billion a year will be removed on EFTPOS, Mastercard and Visa card transactions * The cap on interchange fees paid by businesses will be lowered, forecast to save them $910 million a year and...[Read More]

Major capital home prices slip in two-speed market

2 April

Australia’s two largest property markets could be entering a downturn as rising inflation and interest rates squeeze prospective buyers. But while the Middle East conflict will take some steam out of price growth, Australia’s chronic undersupply...[Read More]

Fuel pain to last longer despite tax cut kicking in

2 April

Motorists will need to wait longer for cheaper fuel as a tax cut might take weeks to start flowing through the bowser, as Labor resists turning to fuel rationing to shore up supply. The federal government’s halving of the fuel tax will begin on...[Read More]

Australia to have another ‘crack’ at Indian trade deal

2 April

Australia will look to expand its trade deal with India, as nations try to diversify relationships amid global uncertainty. Trade Minister Don Farrell said the government will again hold negotiations for the Australia-India Comprehensive Economic...[Read More]

Fuel relief may not be enough to help stressed budgets

1 April

Households already under pressure from higher interest rates will still face a cost wall of elevated fuel prices, despite government efforts to take some of the heat out. Two of Australia’s biggest banks have recorded spikes in spending at petrol...[Read More]

‘Unfair’ subscription traps to be banned in new rules

1 April

Unfair trading practices such as subscription traps and drip pricing will be banned under reforms designed to bolster protections for consumers. The Albanese government introduced laws to parliament on Wednesday to put an end to tactics used by...[Read More]

Health insurance premiums to cut more from hip pockets

1 April

Australians are being urged to examine their health insurance coverage as a hike in the premiums takes effect. The cost of premiums will rise an average of 4.41 per cent on Wednesday, the biggest price rise since a 4.84 per cent hike in 2017. The...[Read More]

Staying the course: Navigating share market volatility with confidence

26 March

Market volatility is a natural and expected part of investing. At various points in time, investors will see their portfolios and superannuation balances rise and fall—sometimes sharply. While these movements can feel unsettling, particularly...[Read More]

Cashflow under pressure: Smarter ways to save on fuel, food and electricity

26 March

With the rising cost of living continuing to impact households across Australia, managing your cashflow has never been more important.  Fuel, food and electricity costs are three of the biggest pressures on the weekly budget. While these expenses...[Read More]

Financial myths you shouldn’t fall for this April Fools Day!

26 March

April Fools’ Day has a long and rich history of harmless trickery, and it can be very entertaining if you manage to fool your family or friends. However, if you’re gullible, April Fools’ Day may not be as much fun. Falling for false...[Read More]