The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has taken enforcement action against two financial planning licensees for permitting unregistered advisers to provide personal financial advice. This regulatory action involved Sky Money Pty Ltd and Smart Financial Capital Pty Ltd, who were each required to pay infringement notice penalties amounting to $31,300 in early July 2025. - read more
Australia's strong labour market showed signs of cooling in June, with the latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealing an increase in the unemployment rate to 4.3 per cent, up from 4.1 per cent in May. This slowdown in employment growth, with only a modest increase of 2000 jobs, adds to the pressure on the Reserve Bank to consider future interest rate cuts. The Reserve Bank had previously held the official cash rate steady at 3. - read more
Recent admissions from the Treasury reveal Australia's precarious financial situation, with significant implications for the nation’s economic stability. A report from credit ratings firm S&P last month highlighted that the combined budget deficits of Australia’s state and federal governments total $52 billion. Furthermore, the country's net debt has already surpassed 60% of GDP, showcasing a challenging fiscal scenario. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has proposed eliminating surcharges on debit and credit card transactions, a move that impacts all major card providers such as Mastercard, Visa, and eftpos. As revealed in a newly released consultation paper, the RBA cites the $1.2 billion annual cost to consumers, highlighting inefficiencies and advocating for a unified approach to card payments. - read more
The Future2 Foundation has opened nominations for its annual Make the Difference Grants, providing financial support to initiatives that enhance financial wellbeing across Australia. Financial services professionals have until August 21 to nominate local projects aimed at improving financial literacy, assisting those in poverty, supporting disadvantaged women, and benefiting regional and remote communities. - read more
Recent analysis from WealthData indicates a growing trend among financial advisers in Australia, where a significant portion of those who have successfully passed the financial adviser exam are opting not to practice. As of now, 5,096 individuals, representing 33.31% of active advisers, have chosen not to proceed into practice after passing the exam—up from 28.36% a year prior. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) recently surprised many by maintaining the interest rate at 3.85%, against expectations of a cut. This decision is seen as a measure to continue moderating inflation, but it simultaneously delays potential spikes in the housing market, providing a favorable window for prospective homebuyers. In particular, Melbourne's current market presents significant value, offering a promising opportunity for those looking to enter the property market. - read more
In a recent discussion, James O'Reilly, Director and Financial Planner at Northeast Wealth, underscored the benefits that could come from granting financial advisers access to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) portal. Speaking on The ifa Show, O'Reilly proposed that this access would significantly simplify the services financial advisers provide to clients, particularly at tax time and the end of the financial year (EOFY). - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to keep the official cash rate steady at 3.85%, taking many by surprise after expectations of a 25-basis-point cut had built up in financial circles. This unexpected move comes amid recent data indicating easing inflation and weaker than anticipated economic growth, conflicting with prior predictions of a cut. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is anticipated to maintain its trajectory of incremental interest rate reductions, according to insights from leading financial analysts at ANZ. Recent data from the ANZ-Indeed Australian Job Ads series revealed a rise from 114.8 in May to 116.9 in June, suggesting a potential rebound in job advertisements after previous declines. Despite a stable unemployment rate and hours-based underutilisation rate since mid-2024, the Australian labour market remains strained. - read more
As the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) prepares for its forthcoming monetary policy announcement, economic analysts anticipate a further reduction in the official cash rate by 25 basis points. This prediction, supported by Finder’s RBA Cash Rate Survey, reveals that 88% of participating experts foresee a cut that would lower the interest rate to 3.6%, aligning the decision with the recent decline in both headline and core inflation to the central bank's target range of two to three percent. - read more
In a concerning revelation, Australian retiree Christine Hirchfield shares her ordeal with an unsolicited solar installation that turned into a financial nightmare. Despite her initial enthusiasm for cheaper energy bills and a greener home, the project remains incomplete more than a year later. Consumer groups are now advocating for a nationwide prohibition on deceptive sales practices that target vulnerable consumers like Ms Hirchfield. - read more
Australian online retail sales experienced a modest rise in May, as consumers continued to invest in fashion, games, and toys. According to the latest figures from the National Australia Bank, there was a 0.7% increase in online sales for the month, compared to a 1.1% growth in April. Over the past year, Australians have spent approximately $63 billion on online retail purchases. - read more
The starting days of the new financial year bring significant changes for Australian workers, particularly those on minimum wage. As of Tuesday, the minimum wage will rise by 3.5 per cent, increasing hourly earnings to $24.95, or $948 weekly. This adjustment also affects award wages and comes as a response to rising living costs, outpacing current inflation rates. - read more
The US dollar has experienced an unprecedented decline, marking its worst first-half performance since 1973. Concerns surrounding President Donald Trump's tariff policies have intensified, leading to a substantial drop in the value of the world's primary reserve currency. Specifically, the dollar weakened by 10.7% against a basket of major trading partners' currencies in the first six months of the year, reminiscent of Nixon's era when the dollar was untethered from gold. - read more
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There's a unique sense of freedom that comes with owning a caravan; it's an open invitation to explore the vast and varied landscapes of Australia at your own pace. For many Aussie adventurers, the lure of the open road and the appeal of impromptu getaways is too strong to resist. Yet, despite the daydreams of life on the road, the financial commitment of purchasing a caravan can be a significant barrier. - read more
Understanding caravan finance is crucial whether you're planning an epic road trip or seeking an affordable way to own a mobile holiday home. Caravan finance allows you to spread the cost of your purchase over a period, making it easier to manage financially. - read more
When it comes to securing a caravan loan in Australia, understanding the pre-approval process is a critical first step. Pre-approval essentially means a lender has reviewed your financial background and is prepared to offer you a loan, provided the details you’ve shared are accurate. This stage doesn’t guarantee the final loan approval, but it does give you a clearer picture of how much you can borrow and at what terms. - read more
Embarking on the journey to buy a caravan opens the door to a world of adventure and freedom across Australia's vast landscapes. However, before setting off into the sunset, it's crucial to navigate the financial aspects of caravan ownership. Understanding caravan finance is not only about securing the funds to purchase your new home on wheels; it's also about ensuring that the commitment fits comfortably within your financial means without upsetting your lifestyle. - read more
Financing a caravan is a significant financial decision that can greatly impact your future. Understanding the process and taking the right steps can make a substantial difference in achieving a successful outcome. Many Australian consumers make common mistakes when seeking caravan finance, which can lead to higher costs and unnecessary stress. - read more
Embarking on the journey of owning a caravan in Australia is the gateway to freedom and adventure. With picturesque landscapes and vast wilderness, the allure of exploring the country on your own terms is enticing. A caravan offers the perfect blend of comfort and mobility, allowing you to create lifelong memories as you travel. - read more
Australia's love affair with the open road is a well-documented part of the national psyche; caravaning is more than just a means of travel—it's a lifestyle choice embraced by many. The lure of vast landscapes and the freedom to explore at your own pace has made owning a caravan a treasured goal for adventurers across the country. - read more
Caravans have become a popular choice for travel and lifestyle among many Australians. The appeal lies in the sense of freedom and adventure they offer, along with the convenience of having a home on wheels. As people increasingly look to explore their own backyard, the demand for caravans continues to rise. - read more
Understanding caravan finance is crucial whether you're planning an epic road trip or seeking an affordable way to own a mobile holiday home. Caravan finance allows you to spread the cost of your purchase over a period, making it easier to manage financially. - read more
Imagine the vast, sun-kissed horizons of the Australian outback, the rugged coastlines teeming with life, and the dense, verdant rainforests that whisper tales from a time long past. For many Aussie adventurers, the call of the wild is nearly impossible to resist. A caravan offers the promise of freedom, adventure, and the comforts of home while on the road exploring the natural wonders of the land down under. - read more
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Mortgage Broker: A person or company that acts as an intermediary between borrowers and lenders, but does not lend money directly.
