Insights

Be ahead
of the news

Here for success

Get your financial world on track with our latest thoughts, ideas & helpful tips. Check out our weekly blogs!

Female left hand typing on calculator with laptop open behind her
Tax offset v tax deduction: What’s the difference? This year’s Federal Budget was full of talk about one-off support for households in the form of tax offsets, but most people are a bit hazy on the difference between a tax offset and a tax deduction. Read more
Long empty road ahead
The road ahead for shares Trying to time investment markets is difficult if not impossible at the best of times, let alone now. The war in Ukraine, rising inflation and interest rates and an upcoming federal election have all added to market uncertainty and volatility. Read more
Two women climbing up stairs outside
Budgeting for success in 4 easy steps With all eyes on the Federal Budget and balancing the nation’s books, it’s a good time to review your personal balance sheet. If it’s not as healthy as you would like, perhaps it’s time to do a little budget repair of your own. Read more
a couple of people signing documents at a table
Going guarantor on a loan If you guarantee a loan for a family member or friend, you're known as the guarantor. You are responsible for paying back the entire loan if the borrower can't.

If a lender doesn't want to lend money to someone on their own, the lender can ask for a guarantee.

Before you agree to be a guarantor, think carefully about your own finances. Make sure you understand the loan contract and know the risks.

If you're feeling pressured or unsure about a financial decision, speak to a financial counsellor. It's free and confidential. Read more
Image of paper cut-out house with a man in the background signing papers with a pen
Your key priorities when winding down your mortgage Many of us make paying off our mortgage a priority. It’s the new Australian dream. But before making that last home loan repayment, use our checklist to make sure you’re prepared. Read more