Give your super a head start

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Let’s be honest, for many teenagers and young adults, starting a first job is an exciting milestone. But the focus is usually on the first pay packet, saving for a car, travel, study or eventually a home deposit. Superannuation probably sounds boring right now and often sits much further down the priority list.

It’s totally understandable. You want to enjoy the money you’re earning now, not thinking about how much you’ll need in 40 or 50 years’ time. Yet young workers have one advantage no older investor can buy: time. Understanding how your super works now could pay off later in life.

The power of compounding

One of the reasons super can be so effective over the long-term is the power of compounding. It creates a snowball effect. The returns you earn on your super, earn even more returns. Your super fund puts your money to work in assets like shares, property, and infrastructure, which continuously generate returns and interest. That can have a surprisingly powerful effect. The earlier contributions are made, the more time they have to grow.i

For example, a Sydney Morning Herald article calculated that a 30-year-old earning $100,000 who contributes an extra $50 a week via salary sacrifice could boost their retirement balance by almost $120,000 by age 65.ii

You might think that you need large sums of money to boost your super. In reality, even small, regular contributions can have a meaningful impact over time.

If you’re paying rent, studying or just trying to cover everyday costs, that’s good news. You don’t need to find hundreds of dollars a month to start making a difference.

Government co-contribution

One of the most overlooked super incentives is the federal government’s super co-contribution scheme.

Eligible low and middle-income earners who make personal after-tax contributions to their super may receive a government contribution of up to $500. For the 2026-27 financial year, the maximum entitlement is available for eligible individuals with income up to $49,293, phasing out at higher income levels.iii

If you’re working casually, part-time or while studying, this can be a simple way to give retirement savings an immediate boost.

Keep track of your super

A common issue some people face is having multiple super accounts after changing jobs. Multiple accounts can mean paying duplicate fees and, in some cases, insurance premiums that gradually reduce your balance.

While super stapling came into effect in 2021, it’s important to keep track of your super when you change jobs to ensure you don’t end up with multiple super accounts.

Balancing today’s goals with tomorrow’s

Most young workers are focused on the next few years rather than the next few decades. Your priorities are very different when you’re starting out your career, and your choices can feel far more immediate than retirement planning.

Building super doesn’t have to come at the expense of other financial goals. The aim isn’t necessarily to contribute large amounts when you’re just starting to earn some money. It’s about understanding the opportunities available, knowing how your super works and creating good financial habits early.

A good time for a financial health check

Starting a first job is the perfect time to start developing healthy financial habits.

Simple steps include:

  • checking that super contributions are being paid correctly

  • making sure multiple super accounts are consolidated where appropriate

  • understanding investment options in a super fund

  • reviewing fees and insurance arrangements

  • considering whether voluntary contributions are affordable

It might not feel so important now, but these small steps are often the foundation of good financial habits.iv

Looking after future you

Young Australians have legitimate competing priorities. Paying bills, managing study costs, catching up with friends and still having a social life and can often feel more urgent than retirement planning.

But super is one of the few financial areas where starting small and starting early can create a significant long-term advantage. Spending a little time on your super now could make life a lot easier decades from now.

So why not give your future self a little head start. When it comes to your super, making small contributions early on could be worth more than you think.

i HostPlus | Growing your super with compound returns
ii SMH | How young workers can add six figures to their super
iii ATO | Super co-contribution
iv Professional Super | The wealth-accelerating benefits of super for young professionals

Planning for change can boost retirement confidence

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For many Australians, retirement is no longer simply a question of whether they have accumulated enough money, it’s also about whether they feel confident enough to enjoy the life they have worked towards.

That confidence can be surprisingly difficult to arrive at.

 

The cost of living, healthcare expenses, volatile investment markets and longer life expectancies all make retirement planning more complex. At the same time, superannuation and retirement policy continues to evolve. Even when changes are intended to improve the system, speculation and media discussion can leave people wondering whether the plans they make today will still work tomorrow.

A recent survey found that only 52 per cent of Australians felt financially confident about retirement.i

Decisions and complexity

Australians are generally making decisions about superannuation, investments, tax, retirement income and government benefits, many years before they retire. However, important questions need to be asked before making a decision as these can have a significant impact at retirement.

Common retirement questions to consider include: When should I retire? How much can I afford to spend? Should I contribute more? Should my investment portfolio change?

Changes to the superannuation system can add another layer of complexity to these questions and so can discussions about possible changes. A media headline about superannuation or tax can prompt people to question whether their existing strategy remains appropriate, even when the proposed change may have little or no impact on them personally.

This is not an argument against reform – Australia’s retirement system needs to evolve to meet the needs of a changing society – but it does highlight the importance of having someone who can put changes into context.

With heightened geopolitical tension and market volatility, rising household budgets and healthcare pressures, these factors further impact how pre-retirees and those who have already retired, are feeling about their financial future.

Knowledge builds confidence

Research reveals that Australians who had a clear understanding of the actions they needed to take were three times more likely to feel highly confident about supporting their desired lifestyle in retirement.ii

It also matters for another reason. Lacking retirement confidence does not always sway people to save more in the years leading up to retirement, but it can lead them to spend less than they comfortably could afford to once they stop work.

Australia’s Retirement Income Review noted that many retirees were drawing down very little of their capital and that most people died with a substantial proportion of their wealth still intact.iii This does not mean leaving an inheritance is a bad outcome, but it does suggest that some people may be more cautious about spending money than they need to be.

For someone who has spent decades accumulating and protecting wealth, transitioning from saving to spending can be psychologically difficult. Without a clear understanding of what is sustainable, it can be tempting to keep working, delay experiences or simply spend less than their financial position allows.

The objective is not to encourage people to spend for the sake of spending. It is to give them the knowledge and confidence to make deliberate choices about their retirement lifestyle.

Confidence is about choice

Ultimately, retirement confidence should not be measured solely by whether someone believes they have “enough”.

It is about knowing what is possible. Can you travel? Help your children or grandchildren? Renovate the house? Pursue an interest? Spend more in the early years of retirement while you are healthy enough to enjoy it?

A good retirement plan should help answer those questions.

For some people, confidence may mean knowing they can afford to spend more than they initially thought. For others, it may mean making different choices about investments, tax or the timing of retirement. The important thing is knowing what choices to make.

Australia’s retirement system will continue to evolve. There will always be another announcement, another review and another headline about superannuation or tax.

The answer is not to try to predict every change. It is to have a plan that can adapt, and the knowledge to understand what those changes mean for you.

Because confidence in retirement is not simply knowing how much you have. It is knowing what you can do with it.

i AMP | Retirement Confidence Pulse 2026
ii Vanguard | How Australia Retires 2025
iii Australian Government Treasury | Retirement Income Review Final Report

 Generation Mortgage: Why younger Australians face a very different retirement

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A very different retirement awaits

For generations of Australians, owning the family home outright by retirement was almost taken for granted.

You bought a house during your working years, gradually paid down the mortgage and ideally entered retirement debt-free, with superannuation and the Age Pension available to help fund your lifestyle (or, if you were fortunate, an employer-sponsored defined benefit pension).

For many younger Australians, that same path is becoming increasingly difficult.

Research reveals a generation expecting to work longer, carry substantially more housing debt into retirement and need considerably more income once they get there.

Nearly half of Gen Z Australians (48%) surveyed expect to still have a mortgage in retirement, alongside more than one in three Millennials (37%) surveyed, while others expect to remain renters throughout retirement.

Self-assessed likelihood of retiring with a mortgage

Source: Vanguard’s How Australia Retires 2026 survey of more than 1,800 Australians. Results are based on survey responses and are intended for illustrative and informational purposes only.

Using super to pay off the mortgage

These shifts could fundamentally change how younger cohorts eventually fund their retirement. Of those expecting to retire with a mortgage:

  • 39% are considering using some of their super to pay off their debt

  • 16% expect to sell their property

  • 45% plan to continue making mortgage repayments during retirement.

Daniel Shrimski, Vanguard’s Managing Director, Asia Pacific, says the findings demonstrate how much the path to retirement is changing.

“Australians are facing a tougher road to retirement than previous generations. Higher housing costs, bigger debts and cost-of-living pressures are changing what retirement looks like and what it will take to fund it,” he said.

Whether using superannuation savings to repay debt is appropriate will depend on individual circumstances and may impact retirement income. Individuals should consider seeking professional advice.

Younger Australians expect to retire later

Housing isn’t the only thing changing.

The research, based on a nationally representative survey of more than 1,800 Australian adults, found most working-age Australians now expect to retire at age 66 or 67.

By comparison, Australians who are already retired reported leaving the workforce at an average age of 63. 

Working-age Australians’ estimates of their ideal and realistic ages at retirement

Source: Vanguard’s How Australia Retires Report 2026 (page 28).

Working an additional three or four years can have significant financial implications. It provides additional years of employment income and super contributions while delaying the point at which someone needs to begin relying on their retirement savings.

But for some Australians, working longer may increasingly be a necessity rather than a choice.

The research suggests housing security is emerging as an important factor in retirement confidence, with younger generations facing the prospect of simultaneously funding their retirement lifestyle and continuing to meet housing costs.

The $90,000 retirement

Despite these pressures, Australians continue to have high expectations for life after work.

The research found Australians aspire to an active retirement that includes remaining in their own home, travelling regularly and spending money on hobbies and their health.

But younger Australians believe funding that lifestyle will require substantially more money.

Australians under 45 estimate they will need over $90,000 a year in retirement. By comparison, Australians aged 65 and over report needing around $60,000 a year.1

Some of that difference may reflect the longer time younger Australians have before retirement and expectations that inflation will push up the cost of living.

But it also illustrates the challenge ahead: younger Australians expect retirement to cost more while simultaneously anticipating entering it with greater housing expenses.

Planning remains a major gap

While retirement expectations are changing, one of the biggest opportunities identified by the research is surprisingly simple: having a plan.

Despite compulsory superannuation, many Australians still don’t have a retirement plan.

“While 45% of working-age Australians have no retirement plan, our research shows that people who have started planning for retirement are significantly more confident about their future,” Shrimski says.

The chart below shows how retirement confidence varies depending on the level of planning.

Retirement confidence by level of retirement planning

Source: Vanguard’s How Australia Retires Report 2026 (page 23).

It doesn’t need to be complicated

A retirement plan doesn’t necessarily need to be complicated. It can start with a few basic questions, whether you’re thinking them through yourself or discussing them with your partner, family or friends:

  • When would you like to retire?

  • Where would you like to live?

  • What sort of lifestyle do you want?

  • How much super do you currently have?

  • Will you still have a mortgage?

  • How much income might you need?

Answering those questions may help identify the gap between where you are today and where you would like to be.

Small steps can make a difference

The good news is that retirement planning doesn’t need to happen all at once.

The research highlights several practical actions Australians can take to become more engaged with their financial future:

  1. Build a retirement plan. Think about your future goals and the steps that could help you achieve them.

  2. Understand how the retirement system works. Learn about superannuation and the role it can play alongside the Age Pension.

  3. Improve your financial literacy. Build your understanding of basic financial concepts through reading, research and conversations.

  4. Consider additional super contributions. Where your circumstances allow, extra contributions may help strengthen your retirement savings.

  5. Check your super regularly. Aim to review your balance, contributions and investment options at least every six months.

As Shrimski puts it: “Our research shows that small actions taken consistently over time can build confidence and help Australians prepare for the retirement they want.”

For younger Australians facing higher housing costs, larger mortgages and potentially longer working lives, the retirement journey may look very different to the generations before them.

But the basic principle remains the same: the earlier you understand where you stand and where you want to go, the more options you may have to shape the retirement you ultimately experience.

1. How Australia Retires 2026, (page 31).
Important information:
Source: Vanguard How Australia Retires 2026 research. Nationally representative survey of 1,800+ Australian adults aged 18 years and over in February 2026. The full methodology is available on page 62 of the report.
Note: Survey findings and examples are based on Vanguard’s How Australia Retires 2026 research and reflect respondents’ opinions, expectations and intentions at the time of the survey. They should not be taken as forecasts or predictions of individual retirement outcomes.
Vanguard Super Pty Ltd (ABN 73 643 614 386 / AFS Licence 526270) (the Trustee) is the trustee of Vanguard Super (ABN 27923449966) and the issuer of Vanguard Super products. The Trustee has contracted Vanguard Investments Australia Ltd (ABN 72 072 881 086 / AFS Licence 227263) (VIA) to provide some services to members of Vanguard Super. Any general advice is provided by VIA. The Trustee and VIA are both wholly owned subsidiaries of The Vanguard Group, Inc. (collectively, “Vanguard”).
Source: Vanguard
Reproduced with permission of Vanguard Investments Australia Ltd Vanguard Investments Australia Ltd (ABN 72 072 881 086 / AFS Licence 227263) is the product issuer. We have not taken yours and your clients’ circumstances into account when preparing this material so it may not be applicable to the particular situation you are considering. You should consider your circumstances and our Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or Prospectus before making any investment decision. You can access our PDS or Prospectus online or by calling us. This material was prepared in good faith and we accept no liability for any errors or omissions. Past performance is not an indication of future performance. © 2026 Vanguard Investments Australia Ltd. All rights reserved. Important: Any information provided by the author detailed above is separate and external to our business and our Licensee. Neither our business nor our Licensee takes any responsibility for any action or any service provided by the author. Any links have been provided with permission for information purposes only and will take you to external websites, which are not connected to our company in any way. Note: Our company does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the contents/information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Financial literacy in Australia: Where we’re improving (and falling behind)

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How well do we understand our money?

Most of us make financial decisions almost every day.

We decide whether to save or spend, how much of the mortgage to pay down, where to invest and, eventually, how to turn decades of savings into an income that can support us through retirement.

But how well do Australians understand the financial concepts and systems behind those decisions?

Vanguard’s How Australia Retires 2026 report surveyed more than 1,800 Australians and found that while older Australians showed higher financial knowledge than younger Australians, significant gaps remain across everything from basic investment concepts to superannuation and the retirement system.

And that’s important because financial literacy isn’t about becoming an investment expert. It’s about having enough knowledge to make informed decisions about your money throughout your life.

How would you fare on the ‘Big Three’ questions?

To measure financial literacy, we asked Australians three internationally recognised questions developed by researchers Annamaria Lusardi (Stanford University) and Olivia Mitchell (University of Pennsylvania), which have been used to assess financial knowledge around the world.

They’re designed to test three foundational financial concepts: interest, inflation and diversification.

Have a go at the following and see how you do:

  1. Suppose you put $100 into a zero-fee savings account paying a guaranteed 2% interest rate. You make no further deposits or withdrawals. How much would you have after one year?

  2. Imagine the interest rate on your savings account was 1% a year while inflation was 2%. After one year, would your money allow you to buy more than today, exactly the same amount, or less?

  3. True or false: Buying shares in a single company usually provides a safer return than buying shares in a number of different companies.

We’ll reveal the answers at the end of this article, but first, how did Australians fare in the How Australia Retires 2026 report?

  • Financial literacy scores were generally higher among older Australians. Scores were relatively consistent among Australians aged 18-44 before rising substantially among older age groups. Men aged 55+ recorded average scores above 80%, with men aged 75+ achieving the highest score of 88%.

  • Younger Australians are improving. Men aged 18–24 scored 66%, up from 54% last year, while women in the same age group scored 59%, up from 50%.

  • The gender gap persists. Women scored below men across every age group, with the largest gap among 45–54-year-olds: 76% for men versus 58% for women.

 Financial literacy by age and gender

Source: Vanguard’s How Australia Retires Report 2026 (page 10).

Retirement knowledge remains a challenge

Understanding concepts such as inflation and diversification is one thing.

Navigating Australia’s retirement system is another.

Respondents were asked four questions covering the Age Pension, voluntary super contributions, the taxation of super and when people can generally access their super savings.

The results were mixed.

  • Knowledge of voluntary super contributions improved. 78% correctly understood that employees can contribute to their own super, up from 74% last year.

  • More Australians understand Age Pension eligibility. 75% answered correctly, up from 65%.

  • Understanding of super’s tax treatment also increased. 57% answered correctly, compared with 49% last year.

  • Super access remains a major blind spot. Just 38% correctly identified the super preservation age, down from 40% last year. Among women aged 18–34, fewer than 30% answered correctly.

That’s a significant knowledge gap given super is likely to become one of the largest financial assets many Australians own.

Australians’ understanding of the retirement system

Source: Vanguard’s How Australia Retires Report 2026 (page 12).

How well do Australians understand their super?

The research also asked the 1800 Australians surveyed how confident they felt about understanding different financial products.

Unsurprisingly, the humble savings account came out on top: 56% reported being very or extremely confident in their understanding.

But confidence dropped considerably for products that can play an important role in building and funding retirement.

Only around one-third of Australians reported high confidence in understanding superannuation, while confidence was even lower for equities, managed funds, ETFs, bonds and annuities.

More broadly, just 35% of Australians said they were very or extremely confident in making financial decisions, slightly below 37% last year.

Australians’ confidence managing financial products and services

Source: Vanguard’s How Australia Retires Report 2026 (page 13)

Fees are another area where knowledge could improve.

Nearly half of Australians said they wouldn’t feel confident explaining the fees charged on their super account to a friend or family member, while more than one-third weren’t very aware – or weren’t aware at all – that super funds may charge multiple fees.

Over long investment periods, even small differences in fees may have a significant impact on your investment balance. The extent of that impact will depend on factors such as investment returns, fees and your individual circumstances.

Vanguard’s modelling found that an additional 0.5 percentage points in annual fees could reduce the retirement balance of a hypothetical full-time worker by around $77,000, or approximately 12.5% of their accumulated savings under the assumptions used in the analysis.1

Building your financial knowledge

The good news is that financial literacy isn’t something you either have or don’t have.

It’s something that can be built gradually through reading, research, conversations and experience.

You could start with some of the fundamentals: understand how inflation affects your purchasing power, learn how compound returns work, explore the relationship between investment risk and return, and understand why diversification matters.

When it comes to retirement, make a habit of learning how your super works, how your savings are invested, what fees you’re paying and how the Age Pension fits into Australia’s broader retirement system.

Make a start

Australians are encouraged to take small, practical steps towards their financial future, whether it’s logging into your super account, learning something new about retirement or beginning to map out a plan. Now is a good time to take your first or next step in your retirement planning journey.

Access How Australia Retires 2026

1 Compares two hypothetical MySuper scenarios for a 25-year-old member with a starting balance of $24,004 and salary of $83,200, retiring at 67. Assumes 12% p.a. SG contributions (less 15% tax), 6.4% p.a. nominal returns, $173 p.a. life and TPD premiums and annual fees of 0.56% and 1.06%. Salary and premiums increase by 4.0% p.a. inflation (2.5% CPI plus 1.5% rising community living standards). End balances are shown in today’s dollars. This example is for illustrative purposes only.
Answers to financial literacy questions:
1. Exactly $102.
2. Less than today.
3. False.
Important information:
Source: Vanguard How Australia Retires 2026 research. Nationally representative survey of 1,800+ Australian adults aged 18 years and over in February 2026. The full methodology is available on page 62 of the report.
Note: Survey findings and examples are based on Vanguard’s How Australia Retires 2026 research and reflect respondents’ opinions, expectations and intentions at the time of the survey. They should not be taken as forecasts or predictions of individual retirement outcomes.
Source: Vanguard
Reproduced with permission of Vanguard Investments Australia Ltd Vanguard Investments Australia Ltd (ABN 72 072 881 086 / AFS Licence 227263) is the product issuer. We have not taken yours and your clients’ circumstances into account when preparing this material so it may not be applicable to the particular situation you are considering. You should consider your circumstances and our Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or Prospectus before making any investment decision. You can access our PDS or Prospectus online or by calling us. This material was prepared in good faith and we accept no liability for any errors or omissions. Past performance is not an indication of future performance. © 2026 Vanguard Investments Australia Ltd. All rights reserved. Important: Any information provided by the author detailed above is separate and external to our business and our Licensee. Neither our business nor our Licensee takes any responsibility for any action or any service provided by the author. Any links have been provided with permission for information purposes only and will take you to external websites, which are not connected to our company in any way. Note: Our company does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the contents/information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

How to dispose of shares

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How to dispose of shares

You can dispose of your shares in the following ways:

  • selling them

  • giving them away (gifting shares)

  • transferring them to a spouse as the result of a breakdown in your marriage or relationship

  • through share buy-backs

  • through mergers, takeovers and demergers

  • because the company goes into liquidation.

It’s important you keep records of acquiring and disposing of shares.

Capital gains and losses when disposing of shares

You are likely to make either a capital gain or capital loss when you dispose of your shares. You must report the total current year capital gains, net capital losses carried forward to later income years and the net capital gain in the tax return for the income year you dispose of the shares.

You make a capital gain when your capital proceeds are more than your cost base (costs of acquiring, owning and disposing of shares). Your capital proceeds are either the:

  • money you receive when you sell your shares

  • value of the shares when you gift your shares.

You may be able to reduce your capital gain if you either:

  • owned your shares for at least 12 months

  • gifted them to a deductible gift recipient, provided both

  • they are valued at less than $5,000

  • you acquired them at least 12 months earlier.

If the capital proceeds are less than the cost base, you will need to work out the reduced cost base first. Then, if the reduced cost base is:

  • more than the capital proceeds, the difference is a capital loss

  • less than the capital proceeds, there is neither a capital gain nor a capital loss.

You also make a capital loss on your shareholding when an administrator or liquidator makes a written declaration that a company’s shares are worthless.

You are entitled to reduce your capital gains by capital losses, including any carry forward capital losses, including any carry forward capital losses (apart from capital losses made in respect of personal use assets and collectables).

If you are carrying on a business of share trading and have losses on shares when you dispose of them, you may be able to claim the loss as a deduction in your tax return.

To see how to enter your capital gains or losses in myTax when you’ve disposed of shares, watch this video How to complete myTax when you have disposed of shares.

For a summary fact sheet about how capital gains tax applies to the sale of shares, go to the ATO Publication Ordering Service to download Capital gains tax on the sale of shares or units.

Shares you received as a gift

If you dispose of shares you received as a gift, you must use the shares’ market value on the day that you received them as the first element of your cost base when working out your capital gain or loss.

Shares you give as a gift

If you give shares away as a gift, treat the shares as if you disposed of them at their market value on the day you gave this gift. This means a capital gains tax (CGT event) occurs and you must include any capital gain or loss in your tax return for the income year you gave away the shares.

Example: gifting shares

On 4 January 2026, Mark bought shares at a cost of $45,000, including brokerage.

On 18 June 2026, Mark gifts all of these shares to his wife. The shares have a market value of $50,000 on 18 June 2026.

Since this gift is a CGT event, Mark needs to calculate his capital gain or capital loss for the 2025–26 income year. He must use $45,000 as the cost base of the shares and $50,000 (the market value of the shares on the day he gifted them) as the capital proceeds. Therefore, Mark makes a capital gain of $5,000. Since he didn’t own these shares for at least 12 months, he doesn’t qualify for a CGT discount of 50%. That is, Mark can’t reduce his capital gain of $5,000 by $2,500.

As he has no other CGT event, and no capital losses (in, or carried forward to, 2025–26), Mark enters the following at the capital gains question in his tax return:

  • $5,000 at Total current year capital gains

  • $5,000 at Net capital gain, this means $5,000 of net capital gain gets added to his assessable income.

However, if Mark had owned the shares for at least 12 months before gifting them, he would have been allowed (to his advantage) to reduce his capital gain by 50%. Therefore, he would have entered the following at the capital gains question in his tax return:

  • $5,000 at Total current year capital gains

  • $2,500 at Net capital gain, this means $2,500 of net capital gain gets added to his assessable income.

End of example

If you donate shares with a value of $5,000 or less to a deductible gift recipient (DGR), you may be able to claim a deduction.

Bonus shares

If you dispose of bonus shares you received on or after 20 September 1985, you may:

  • make a capital gain

  • have to modify your existing shares’ cost base and reduced cost base in the company.

Pre-CGT shares

If you acquired your shares before 20 September 1985, they are currently exempt from CGT. This means you don’t need to calculate a capital gain or loss, and the disposal doesn’t affect your tax.

You include the sale or disposal of pre-CGT shares in your tax return. At CGT exemptions and rollovers, select Capital gains disregarded as a result of the sale of a pre-CGT asset.

Include the sale or disposal of pre-CGT shares in your tax return. At question Have you applied an exemption, rollover or additional discount, select the type code Capital gains disregarded as a result of the sale of a pre-CGT asset.

Source: ATO
Important: This provides general information and hasn’t taken your circumstances into account. It’s important to consider your particular circumstances before deciding what’s right for you. Although the information is from sources considered reliable, we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete. You should not rely upon it and should seek qualified advice before making any investment decision. Except where liability under any statute cannot be excluded, we do not accept any liability (whether under contract, tort or otherwise) for any resulting loss or damage of the reader or any other person.
Any information provided by the author detailed above is separate and external to our business and our Licensee. Neither our business nor our Licensee takes any responsibility for any action or any service provided by the author. Any links have been provided with permission for information purposes only and will take you to external websites, which are not connected to our company in any way. Note: Our company does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the contents/information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Equipment financing for your business

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Choosing smarter ways to finance the equipment you need can benefit the rest of your business in ways you hadn’t expected. Here’s how to get started.

Choosing the right financing solutions

Arranging car finance or small business loans to purchase equipment for your business can sometimes seem complicated. However, you’ll find a range of flexible equipment finance solutions available, enabling you to free up more of your working capital in order to grow your business.

Selecting the right financing option depends on your business goals, cash flow and operational needs. Here are some key questions to consider:

  • Do you want to own the equipment or maintain flexibility to upgrade?

  • How long will you need the equipment?

  • What is your budget for monthly repayments?

  • How will the equipment generate income for your business?

Some of the most popular business finance options available include an equipment loan or finance lease agreement.

Why wouldn’t you pay cash?

Many businesses don’t have enough available cash to consider an outright purchase, making business equipment financing a necessity. Even if you can afford it, investing cash in assets may leave you with less working capital to finance operations or explore new growth opportunities.

That’s where the flexibility of equipment finance comes in, allowing you to align repayments to suit your cash flow. You may also be able to claim tax deductions.

For example, if you run a delivery business, it’s not necessary to pay upfront for all the vans you use. You might consider a range of vehicle finance options, from an equipment loan to a finance lease.

Using these products gives your business the opportunity to use the vans in exchange for regular payments, rather than paying the full lump sum upfront.

Your business equipment financing options

There are different types of business loans available to suit a range of scenarios. Here are some common financing options.

An equipment loan

Taking out an equipment loan (also known as a chattel mortgage) can be an effective way to finance business equipment purchases, especially if it’s important to you for the business to own the asset from the outset.

Businesses can usually get a loan for the full cost of the goods (no upfront deposit) with the asset itself serving as security for the loan. Generally, the interest you pay plus the depreciation of the asset is tax–deductible to the extent the asset is used in your business.

The advantage of a vehicle or equipment loan is that it doesn’t tie up all your funds and generally doesn’t require additional security, enabling you to use your available cash and credit lines to generate income. Ownership passes to you immediately and your bank registers a goods mortgage over the asset.

An equipment loan can be tailored to suit your business’ cash flow, with a range of repayment options. You can also choose to reduce the loan amount and the related finance costs by adding some equity through a deposit or trade-in.

A finance lease arrangement

Leasing also allows you to get the latest equipment and vehicles with no capital outlay.

Your bank owns the asset and leases it to you for an agreed period. The rentals are structured with a residual value, and give you options at the end of the lease period. The lease payments may be claimed as a tax deduction, to the extent the asset is used in the business.

The advantage of having a residual value is that your monthly payments will be lower, placing less strain on your cash flow. However, if you want to eventually own the asset, you can make an offer to purchase (plus GST).

Cash flow considerations

Knowing how your business will be impacted when you take out equipment finance is important. Here are some key considerations to help you make the right decisions:

  • Use a loan repayment calculator: Using a business loan calculator can help you understand repayment structures on the funds you borrow. 

  • Prepare a cash flow forecast: You may consider preparing a cash flow forecast with your accountant to see how the new financing will affect your bottom line.

  • Plan for seasonal cash flow variations: If your business experiences seasonal fluctuations, consider structuring your equipment finance repayments to align with your anticipated cash flow.

  • Assess income generation and asset life: Knowing how and when your equipment can generate income can help you determine the best way of paying for it. You should also assess the expected productive life of an asset. This way you can avoid having to pay for an asset beyond its useful life or pay for a piece of equipment too quickly, putting stress on your cash flow.

  • Seek expert advice: Talk to us to help you with your business budget.

Source: NAB
Reproduced with permission of National Australia Bank (‘NAB’). This article was originally published at https://www.nab.com.au/business/small-business/moments/grow/buy-equipment/select-equipment
National Australia Bank Limited. ABN 12 004 044 937 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 230686. The information contained in this article is intended to be of a general nature only. Any advice contained in this article has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any advice on this website, NAB recommends that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances.
© 2026 National Australia Bank Limited (“NAB”). All rights reserved.
Important: Any information provided by the author detailed above is separate and external to our business and our Licensee. Neither our business nor our Licensee takes any responsibility for any action or any service provided by the author. Any links have been provided with permission for information purposes only and will take you to external websites, which are not connected to our company in any way. Note: Our company does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the contents/information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Should I rent or own a place in a retirement village?

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In Australia, there are both ownership and rental opportunities to choose from when deciding on the best retirement living option for you.

Key points:

  • There are varying tenure types that can impact your rights over a property in a village

  • Make sure to understand all the costs and fees that are associated with taking a placement in a retirement village

  • Legislation and regulations differ depending on the State or Territory you live in

Generally, the deciding factor of whether you rent or buy is subject to your current financial situation.

However, you should also consider the retirement lifestyle you want to lead and whether ownership or renting will best assist in reaching those wishes and desires.

Retirement villages can be a really attractive option after you retire, encompassing a safe environment with a close-knit community of older people with similar interests and hobbies, and active social groups.

In most cases, moving into a retirement village is a great way to start downsizing your possessions and assets.

Ownership and legalities

There are different pros and cons when it comes to owning or renting a home in a retirement village.

For instance, if you rent a home, it can be less expensive depending on how long you live there. Whereas, if you buy, you don’t have to worry about any rental issues and have greater control over your home.

Either way, a retirement home will cut into your superannuation, along with additional costs and fees associated with living in a village.

Property ownership in retirement villages comes under slightly different legislation to normal homeownership.

They have different forms of legal title and occupancy rights, and other costs such as stamp duty may or may not apply.

Types of tenure

The various forms of occupation or ownership rights of retirement villages are referred to as ‘tenure’. They will include provisions for resident consultation about the management of the community and the use of the village facilities.

The legal forms of tenure for buying into retirement villages are:

Leasehold estates: The owner/developer continues to own the property, however, you pay the market value of the unit in exchange for a period of time (49 – 199 year lease). This is generally the most common form of tenure used by ‘for profit’ developers.

Licences to occupy: The village developer or owner gives you a licence to occupy your unit which means you are permitted to stay under certain conditions such as not altering the property or surrounding gardens. This form of tenure is generally the most common used by ‘not-for-profit’ developers.

Company share arrangement: The village is still owned by the retirement village developer. They will sell you shares which entitles you to live in your unit. Although some retirement villages use this tenure, it’s not a common form of tenure.

Strata title ownership: Similar to regular strata-title schemes where the property is divided into units, this operates as a direct ownership structure. You pay the agreed purchase price, are registered on the title deed and become a member of the owners’ corporation. However, unlike regular strata, the retirement village operator may have to approve you as a resident and you sign a management contract with the village owner.

This is not a common form of tenure for retirement villages.

Community title ownership: This is a very rare form of tenure for retirement villages and operates on a direct ownership structure similar to strata, except in community title, the land is divided into ‘Lots’.

Ongoing costs

Even though you have paid the market value for your property under the different tenures, you will still have ongoing costs and fees to pay in addition to your regular utility bills and in some villages, council tax.

These additional costs are sometimes known as service or maintenance fees and cover costs for the village management and maintenance.

Be across all the costs and fees that are involved with living in a village before you move in so you are not surprised by any unexpected fees.

Always read the resident’s handbook and take legal and financial advice so you fully understand what you are buying into and what your responsibilities are.

Rental units

Some residential villages do offer accommodation rental units, sometimes known as periodic tenancy, but these are generally reserved for people with limited financial resources and are usually income assessed.

Because of this, rental units are often in high demand and you may have difficulty finding one.

Where do I find a rental unit?

Rental units come in all shapes and sizes, and can be found in both small and large villages or retirement living complexes.

The main providers of rental accommodation for seniors are non-profit organisations such as religious, charitable and other benevolent organisations and local councils. However, the private sector is beginning to develop more purpose–built rental accommodation for seniors.

How much is the rent?

You will generally be charged a rental that is a percentage of the age pension plus maximum rent assistance available from Centrelink (regardless of whether you are receiving the age pension or rent assistance).

What services do rental developments offer?

Rental developments may offer the following services:

  • Self-contained units with quality fittings

  • The provision of all meals

  • Laundry services

  • Communal facilities

  • Social activities

  • Secure environment

  • Independent lifestyle

Government legislation

There is legislation to protect the rights of retirement village residents, but this is regulated by the individual States and Territories.

The legislation for each State and Territory Retirement Acts can be found by clicking on the following links:

ACT: Retirement Villages Act 2012 and Regulations

NSW: Retirement Villages Act 1999 and Regulations

NT: Retirement Villages Act 1995 and Regulations

QLD: Retirement Villages Act 1999 and Regulations

SA: Retirement Villages Act 2016 and Regulations

TAS: Retirement Villages Act 2004 and Regulations

VIC: Retirement Villages Act 1986 and Regulations

WA: Retirement Villages Act 1992 and Regulations

Some states and territories also have Resident Associations who can help with advocacy, legal aspects and also promote the rights of residents to all levels of government.

Source: Aged Care Guide
Reproduced with permission of Care & Co Media. This article was originally published on https://www.agedcareguide.com.au/information/renting-or-owning
Important: This provides general information and hasn’t taken your circumstances into account. It’s important to consider your particular circumstances before deciding what’s right for you. Although the information is from sources considered reliable, we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete. You should not rely upon it and should seek qualified advice before making any investment decision. Except where liability under any statute cannot be excluded, we do not accept any liability (whether under contract, tort or otherwise) for any resulting loss or damage of the reader or any other person. 
Any information provided by the author detailed above is separate and external to our business. Our business does not take any responsibility for any action or any service provided by the author. Any links have been provided with permission for information purposes only and will take you to external websites, which are not connected to our company in any way. Note: Our company does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the contents/information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Defined benefit super explained

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Learn how defined benefit super works and what it could mean for retirement. 

What is defined benefit super?

Defined benefit super is a type of super account that works differently from most other super accounts.

Most defined benefit super accounts were set up by an employer. The employer’s rules help determine what you’ll get when you retire.

Defined benefit super accounts are less common and only accept certain workers or no longer take new members.

Most super accounts have a balance that rises and falls over time, based on how much money you and your employer put in and how you invest it. This affects what you’ll get when you retire.

With a defined benefit account, your super fund uses a formula to work out what you’ll get instead.

 If you’re thinking about leaving a defined benefit fund, talk to your super fund, or speak to us first. Some funds offer benefits that you may lose if you leave, and you generally can’t rejoin.

How a defined benefit account works

The formula your fund uses to work out what you’ll get when you retire may differ from what other defined benefit funds use.

It may consider:

  • the money your employer puts in, and any contributions you make (if your fund allows them)

  • your average salary before retirement

  • how long you worked for your employer

  • your age when you retire.

For example, a retirement benefit calculation might look like this.

A fund uses the following formula to work out your benefit (i.e. how much you’ll get) at retirement:

Average salary for the last 3 years × total years of service with the employer who sponsors the defined benefit account × benefit factor.

If a member:

  • had an average salary of $100,000

  • worked for 20 years at the employer, and

  • has a benefit factor of 0.15

their estimated retirement benefit would be:

$100,000 × 20 × 0.15 = $300,000

Example only
This example is simplified to show how a defined benefit account may work. Every defined benefit fund uses its own formula. Your fund may use different factors when calculating your benefit.

Are defined benefit funds still available?

Most defined benefit funds no longer accept new members. Many were offered by government employers, public sector organisations, universities and large employers.

If you’re already a member, you can usually stay in the fund while you’re eligible.

What happens when you retire?

When you retire, your defined benefit fund may offer:

  • a regular income stream

  • a lump sum, or

  • a combination of both.

Your options depend on your fund. 

What is a defined benefit income stream?

A defined benefit income stream pays you a regular income from a defined benefit super scheme.

Your fund works out how much you receive.

Unlike an account-based pension, payments do not usually depend on an account balance or investment returns.

Payments, tax and death benefits can vary between funds.

Understand how different retirement income options can work together to fund your retirement including account-based pensions and lifetime income streams. 

Before making changes to your defined benefit super

Defined benefit accounts can offer benefits that other super accounts don’t.

Making changes may affect:

  • your future retirement income

  • your access to pension benefits

  • the tax you’ll pay

  • benefits for your partner or dependants.

Before you decide, contact your fund and consider speaking to us for financial advice.

High-pressure sales tactics are putting your super savings at risk. Be on red alert for phone calls, click bait advertising and promises of unrealistic returns to encourage you to put your super into risky investments. Stop, think carefully, and check the claims first.

Questions to ask your fund

Every defined benefit fund works differently. Your fund can explain how your account works.

You may want to ask:

  • how your benefit is calculated

  • what options you have at retirement

  • whether you can receive a pension, lump sum or both

  • how your benefit may be taxed

  • what happens if you leave the fund or transfer your benefits.

Source: Moneysmart
Reproduced with the permission of ASIC’s MoneySmart Team. This article was originally published at https://moneysmart.gov.au/how-super-works/defined-benefit-super-explained
Important note: This provides general information and hasn’t taken your circumstances into account.  It’s important to consider your particular circumstances before deciding what’s right for you. Although the information is from sources considered reliable, we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete. You should not rely upon it and should seek qualified advice before making any investment decision. Except where liability under any statute cannot be excluded, we do not accept any liability (whether under contract, tort or otherwise) for any resulting loss or damage of the reader or any other person.  Past performance is not a reliable guide to future returns.
Important
Any information provided by the author detailed above is separate and external to our business and our Licensee. Neither our business nor our Licensee takes any responsibility for any action or any service provided by the author. Any links have been provided with permission for information purposes only and will take you to external websites, which are not connected to our company in any way. Note: Our company does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the contents/information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

What is a managed fund

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A managed fund lets you hand investment decisions to a fund manager.

How a managed fund works

 

 

In a managed fund, money from many investors is pooled and invested to match the fund’s investment strategy. The strategies can range from lower-risk cash funds to higher-risk share and property funds. A managed fund can be a simple way to buy a mix of investments in one product.

A fund manager makes investment decisions. The company that legally operates the fund is called the responsible entity or fund operator.

When you invest in a managed fund, you don’t own the underlying investments directly. Instead, you own a stake in the fund. The value of the fund can go up or down. Some funds also pay you income, called distributions.

Some managed funds are bought and sold on an exchange like the ASX. These can include exchange-traded funds, or ETFs.

If you have super, it is likely you already invest in managed funds.

Smart Tip: Managed funds go by different names. You may see terms like unit trust, mutual fund, managed investment scheme, or Corporate Collective Investment Vehicle (CCIV).

Types of managed funds

What managed funds invest in

Single asset managed funds

These funds invest in one asset class. An asset class is a group of similar investments.

Cash funds – invest in very low-risk, short-term investments like bank deposits and short-term government bonds. They are low risk, but returns are usually lower too.

Fixed interest or bond funds – invest in loans to governments and companies. They can hold higher-risk loans that pay more interest.

Private credit funds – invest in loans that are not publicly traded. Risk and return depend on the borrowers and how the loans are structured. These can be higher risk.

Mortgage funds – invest in property loans. They can pay income so long as their borrowers keep paying. They can fall in value if borrowers default.

Property funds – invest in property or property-related assets. Some are higher risk.

Share (equity) funds – invest in shares in Australian or overseas companies. They can offer higher returns. Their value can also swing more sharply.

Alternative investment funds – include hedge funds, private equity, derivatives and commodities. These can be higher risk and more complex.

Mixed asset or multi-sector managed funds

These funds invest across more than one asset class. They are usually labelled by how much of the fund is held in growth assets like shares and property, and defensive assets like cash and bonds.

Growth – around 85% growth assets, the rest defensive.

Balanced – around 70% growth assets, the rest defensive.

Conservative – around 30% growth assets, the rest defensive.

Cash – 100% cash or cash-equivalents such as short-term deposits and bank bills.

How managed fund investments are chosen

Active funds rely on a fund manager to make ongoing decisions about investments. Some aim to beat a market index. Others aim to produce steady income or protect against loss. Some active funds use an absolute return strategy that aims for positive returns regardless of what markets are doing.

Passive funds – also called index funds – try to match a market index rather than beat it. There is less day-to-day decision-making, so fees are usually lower than active management fees.

Responsible, sustainable or ethical funds screen investments against environmental, social or governance criteria. These can be active or passive.

Benefits of managed funds

Managed funds can make investing easier for people who do not want to choose every investment themselves.

Benefits include:

  • access to a range of investments in one product

  • professional management

  • easier diversification, which means spreading your money across different investments

Risks of managed funds

Managed funds are not risk-free. The value of your investment can fall, and you may get back less than you invested.

Risks can include:

  • market risk – the assets in the fund can fall in value because of events affecting the entire market

  • sector risk – a fund focused on one part of the economy can be hit harder when that sector does badly

  • liquidity risk – you may not be able to get your money out as quickly as expected, and funds can restrict, delay or stop withdrawals in some circumstances

  • currency risk – overseas investments can be affected by changes in exchange rates

  • inflation risk – your returns may not keep up with rising prices, so your money buys less over time

  • interest rate risk – changes in interest rates can affect the value of the fund’s investments, especially bonds and other loans

  • credit risk – a borrower that the fund has lent to may not repay the loan

  • concentration risk – holding a small number of investments means any single loss has a bigger impact on the fund

  • gearing risk – if the fund borrows to invest, both gains and losses are magnified

Not every managed fund will have all these risks. The main risks depend on what the fund invests in and how it is managed.

Mia buys a diversified managed fund

Mia has saved $8,000 and wants to start investing in shares. She does not feel confident choosing individual shares, so she looks at managed funds that invest in Australian shares and overseas shares. She reads the Product Disclosure Statement to check how the fund invests, the fees she will pay, and the level of risk. Mia sees that using a managed fund could help her access a diversified mix of investments to lower her risk. She buys units directly with the manager.

Deciding if managed funds are right for you

There are a lot of different ways you can invest your money – managed funds are just one option.

Managed funds might suit you if:

  • you want a simple way to invest

  • you want your money spread across a range of investments

  • you do not want to choose and manage each investment yourself

  • you are comfortable that the value can rise and fall

Managed funds may not suit you if:

  • you want full control over every investment choice

  • you need your money back at short notice

  • you do not want to pay ongoing fees

  • you are not comfortable with the risk of losses

Managed funds are not an appropriate investment for everyone. It’s important to consider your investing timeframe and risk tolerance.

Contact us if you have any questions.

Source: Moneysmart
Reproduced with the permission of ASIC’s MoneySmart Team. This article was originally published at https://moneysmart.gov.au/managed-funds-and-etfs/what-is-a-managed-fund
Important note: This provides general information and hasn’t taken your circumstances into account. It’s important to consider your particular circumstances before deciding what’s right for you. Although the information is from sources considered reliable, we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete. You should not rely upon it and should seek qualified advice before making any investment decision. Except where liability under any statute cannot be excluded, we do not accept any liability (whether under contract, tort or otherwise) for any resulting loss or damage of the reader or any other person. Past performance is not a reliable guide to future returns.
Important
Any information provided by the author detailed above is separate and external to our business and our Licensee. Neither our business nor our Licensee takes any responsibility for any action or any service provided by the author. Any links have been provided with permission for information purposes only and will take you to external websites, which are not connected to our company in any way. Note: Our company does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the contents/information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

Should you sell or rent out your home before buying again?

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Sell vs. rent: at a glance

Selling your home before you buy may suit you if:

  • You want a bigger deposit for your next purchase

  • You prefer simpler finances with one mortgage

  • You do not want landlord responsibilities

Renting out your home may suit you if:

  • You want to keep the property as an investment

  • You can manage two mortgages

  • You want flexibility if the market is not ideal for selling

How selling or renting affects buying your next home

Your choice can shape what you can afford next.

  • Selling first may increase your deposit and reduce how much you need to borrow.

  • Renting out means lenders assess both mortgages and your expected rental income.

  • Rental income is usually not counted in full, which can affect borrowing power.

  • This may influence your price range, timing, or loan structure when buying your next home.

Option 1: Selling your home to buy again

Selling your current home is often the most straightforward option when upgrading. It allows you to reset your finances before moving on to your next purchase.

Pros of selling

  • Unlock equity for a bigger deposit: Selling can free up value you have built in your home, after costs, which may help reduce how much you need to borrow next.

  • Simpler finances: You usually move from one home loan to another, rather than managing two loans at the same time.

  • No landlord responsibilities: You avoid managing tenants, maintenance, or rental compliance.

Cons of selling

Miss out on potential future growth: If property prices rise after you sell, you no longer benefit from that growth.

Selling costs apply: These can include agent fees, marketing, and legal costs.

Timing matters: If the market is softer when you sell, your home may take longer to sell or achieve a lower price.

Option 2: Renting out your home and buying another

Renting out your current home means turning it into an investment property while purchasing your next place to live.

Pros of renting out

Rental income can help: Rent may help cover part of your new mortgage, although it may not cover all costs.

Exposure to future growth: You keep ownership of both properties, which may support long-term wealth building.

Flexibility: Renting can be a short or long-term option if selling does not feel right now.

Cons of renting out

Two mortgages to manage: This can increase financial pressure if income changes or costs rise.

Vacancy and maintenance risks: The property may not always have a tenant, and repairs are your responsibility.

Ongoing landlord obligations: Even with a property manager, you remain responsible for the property.

Key financial things to think about

Before deciding whether to rent or sell, it helps to pressure-test your finances. 

  • Can you afford two mortgages if rent drops or stops?

  • Do you have enough equity to buy again without selling?

  • How comfortable are you managing higher repayments if rates change?

Tax considerations 

Renting out or selling a property can affect your tax situation in different ways. Outcomes depend on individual circumstances, and rules can change over time. Understanding that tax may be impacted is an important part of deciding whether to sell or rent out your home.

Get help deciding your next move

Choosing between renting out vs selling your home can feel complex, especially when you are also planning to buy your next place. A home loan specialist can help you understand:

  • How each option affects your borrowing power

  • What your deposit options may look like

  • Your possible next steps based on your situation

We’re here to help if you have any questions.

Source: NAB
Reproduced with permission of National Australia Bank (‘NAB’). This article was originally published at https://www.nab.com.au/personal/life-moments/home-property/buy-next-home/renting-out-vs-selling
National Australia Bank Limited. ABN 12 004 044 937 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 230686. The information contained in this article is intended to be of a general nature only. Any advice contained in this article has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any advice on this website, NAB recommends that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances.
© 2026 National Australia Bank Limited (“NAB”). All rights reserved.
Important: Any information provided by the author detailed above is separate and external to our business and our Licensee. Neither our business nor our Licensee takes any responsibility for any action or any service provided by the author. Any links have been provided with permission for information purposes only and will take you to external websites, which are not connected to our company in any way. Note: Our company does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the contents/information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.