Treasurer hoses down talk of big budget handouts
7 May
Treasurer Jim Chalmers has downplayed the Reserve Bank governor’s warnings about public spending adding to inflation, insisting large stimulus packages won’t be a feature of the federal budget. After lifting interest rates for the third...[Read More]
What’s known so far about the federal budget
7 May
Jim Chalmers is putting the finishing touches on his fifth federal budget, with some of the measures starting to be revealed. WHAT’S ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THE BUDGET * The government has already flagged large cuts to the NDIS, with savings of $15...[Read More]
Inflation, growth, rates all hinge on end to conflict
7 May
The crisis in the Middle East fanned the flames of already buoyant inflation in Australia and could lead to more interest rate pain if it isn’t resolved, the central bank has warned. The Reserve Bank of Australia released fresh quarterly economic...[Read More]
Consumers hang tough despite echoes of COVID headwinds
7 May
Australian consumers are showing resilience in the face of rising interest rates, fuel prices and other costs, according to credit agency data. Despite the headwinds, strong momentum in consumer activity in the first quarter of 2026 had provided a...[Read More]
Oil crisis not over: warnings of diesel over $4 a litre
6 May
Diesel prices could surge above $4 a litre in coming months under a scenario modelled by economists at National Australia Bank, potentially spelling a much more severe economic fallout than forecast by the Reserve Bank. Fears of service stations...[Read More]
PM rubbishes budget tax speculation as home prices slow
6 May
Tax changes in the upcoming budget are designed to help young people own a home, the prime minister says, as a downturn in Australia’s largest property markets gathers steam. Asked about reported changes to negative gearing and the capital gains...[Read More]
Working with an estate planning lawyer: What to expect and how to prepare
30 April
Estate planning is one of those important life tasks that many people put off because it feels confronting, complicated or “something for later”. But a well-prepared estate plan is not really about death; it is about care, clarity and reducing...[Read More]
Key points to consider to help you in your decision to move your loved one to aged care
30 April
Caring for someone in an aged care home can be a challenging and emotional experience, but it’s important to remember that you still have an essential role to play in supporting your loved one’s care. Here are some key points to consider to help...[Read More]
Saving for the future
30 April
In an era where the allure of instant gratification is stronger than ever, the art of saving money seems to be fading into the background. Yet, the truth remains: most of us have aspirations that extend beyond our immediate reach, be it a new car,...[Read More]
Key ways to invest through an SMSF
30 April
A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) offers individuals greater control over their retirement savings, allowing them to choose a variety of investment options. To maximise long-term returns and financial security, it is essential to understand the...[Read More]
Worse to come as oil crisis adds fuel to rate-pain fire
30 April
Australia’s headline inflation rate has climbed to a two-and-a-half year high due to the Iran war but Treasurer Jim Chalmers warns the worst is yet to come. The jump in the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ annual consumer price index, to 4.6 per...[Read More]
Inflation levels surge following war in Middle East
30 April
The impact from the Iran war has led to a surge in inflation, in the first major piece of economic data since the conflict began: * Headline inflation rose from 3.7 per cent to 4.6 per cent in the year to March * It’s the highest headline...[Read More]
Caveat empty: car buyers beware fuel and range promises
30 April
Drivers have been warned to be “deeply sceptical” of automakers’ claims after several popular hybrid and petrol cars were caught using significantly more fuel than advertised. Many electric vehicles are also stopping short of their promised...[Read More]
More fuel on the way to bolster Australian reserves
29 April
An extra 500 million litres of fuel will enter the country’s reserves in coming weeks, as dozens of cargo ships are en route to Australia. Energy Minister Chris Bowen on Sunday confirmed 4.6 billion litres will enter the country in the coming four...[Read More]
Watchdog puts bite on ‘finfluencers’ deceiving Gen Z
29 April
Dodgy financial advice provided by social media influences is facing a crackdown, with Gen Z exposed to the misleading offers. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has issued warning notices to four finance influencers, also known as...[Read More]