Why you should review your super

Your super could be one of the biggest assets you’ll accumulate in your lifetime.

However, many Australians think they don’t need to worry about their super until retirement. Some don’t think about it at all.

It’s never too early to think about your super and the earlier you get on top of it, the better. It’s a good idea to regularly review and manage your super at least once a year. It’s important to make sure you:

• are getting the super you’re entitled to from your employer
• know where your super is.

Small decisions you make today can have a big impact on your final super balance.

For instance, missing out on some employer contributions today, could have a huge impact on your final super balance due to the compounding effect of earnings. The same can happen if you have lost or unclaimed super.

Benefits of a super health check

A super health check consists of 5 simple yet important checks you can do to get on top of your super today. It will help you:

• manage your super
• understand your entitlements
• make better choices for your future.

You can complete a super health check at any time however, we suggest you get into the habit of doing it each year.

Check 1: Check your contact details

Check your contact details and tax file number (TFN) are up to date with th ATO and your super fund. This helps prevent lost super and assists the ATO in matching any unclaimed super to you. It’s also important to ensure your bank account details are up to date.

Log on to ATO online services through myGov. In the top menu, select My profile. From the drop-down options, select either:

• Personal details to update your name, contact number, email and home address
• Financial institution details to update your bank account and
  • under the Account heading, you will see Income Tax and Superannuation
  • select either Add or Update.

To update your contact details and TFN with your super fund, see their website or contact them directly, or speak to us.

Check 2: Check your super balance and employer contributions

It’s important to check your super balance each year to see how much you have and keep track of your employer contributions. You can do this anytime on ATO online services or through your super fund.

Your employer should currently pay your super at least every 3 months, this will change on 1 July whereby your super must be paid the same time as your wages. They may choose to do it more frequently, such as your regular pay cycle. If you’re under 18, you need to work more than 30 hours a week to be eligible for super. For the latest super rates information visit Super guarantee.

Funds report account balances to the ATO at certain times of the year. Balances shown in ATO online services may be different to your actual current balances.

Log on to ATO online services through myGov. From the top menu, select Super and then either:

• Fund details to see all your super accounts and balances (including those held in funds or with the ATO) and the most recent data reported by your fund.
• Information then Employer contributions to see the total year-to-date employer contributions in a selected year – select Transactions to see each contribution separately.

For help calculating the amount of super your employer should be paying, use the Estimate my super tool. If you do not receive super contributions or the amounts are incorrect:

• contact your employer and request an update
• report it to the ATO.

Check 3: Check for lost and unclaimed super

You may have lost track of some of your super when you changed your name, address or job, for example. This is why it’s important to ensure your fund has your current details.

Lost super is when your fund has lost touch with you, or your account is inactive. This money is held by your fund. Unclaimed super is when your fund transfers lost super to the ATO.

All your super accounts including lost and ATO held super are displayed on ATO online services.

Log on to ATO online services through myGov. From the top menu, select Super. Then select either:

• Fund details to check for lost super – if you want to keep your super with the same fund, contact them directly to update your details.
• Manage and then Transfer super to transfer this lost super to an eligible super account – or ask your fund to complete the transfer for you.
• Manage and then Transfer super to transfer ATO held super to an eligible super account.
• Manage and then Withdraw ATO-held super to have your super paid directly to you if the amount is less than $200 or you are over 65.

Check 4: Check if you have multiple super accounts and consider consolidating

If you’ve had more than one job, you may have more than one super account. It’s important to know how many super accounts you have. Combining your super may reduce fees and make it easier to manage.

If you decide to consolidate your super, it’s important to choose the fund that’s right for you. You should check that it provides better value, and the insurance cover suits your needs, which may change throughout your life. To see which fund is the best option for you, visit MoneySmart. If you are unsure of what to do, contact your super fund or we can assist you.

Log on to ATO online services through myGov. From the top menu, select Super then either:

• Fund details to see all your super accounts and balances.
• Manage and then Transfer super to consolidate your accounts, then
  • select the fund you want to close (transfer)
  • select the fund you want your money transferred to from the accounts listed
  • confirm your selection and submit request.

Check 5: Check your nominated beneficiary

Take the time to ensure you have a valid death beneficiary nomination in place with your super fund as this isn’t covered by your will. This means your loved ones will not be put through unnecessary difficulties to finalise your estate.

Most binding nominations expire every 3 years. Some super funds have an option where nominations do not expire and remain in place until they are revoked.

If you don’t nominate a beneficiary, your fund may not know who your benefit should be paid to. In these cases, they will follow the law. This usually means they pay it to one or more of your dependents or your legal personal representative.

To check or nominate your death beneficiary:

• Refer to your super fund’s website or contact them to check if you already have a valid nomination in place.
• To update it, complete the form from your super fund, sign and date in the presence of 2 witnesses.
• If you are unsure what to do, contact your super fund or seek independent financial or legal advice from a qualified estate planner.

We’re here if you need any help.

Source: ato.gov.au
Reproduced with the permission of the Australian Tax Office. This article was originally published on https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/super-for-individuals-and-families/super/growing-and-keeping-track-of-your-super/keeping-track-of-your-super/super-health-check#ato-Whyyoushouldreviewyoursuper
Important:

Stay up to date with what’s happened in the Australian economy and markets over the past month.

2026 kicked off with some encouraging signs but comes with a sting in the tail as global uncertainty continues to shake things up.

There was a surprise drop in unemployment to 4.1%, the number of jobs available increased, and household spending grew.

These elements have also contributed to persistently increasing inflation and predictions of two or three interest rate rises this year.

The S&P/ASX 200 climbed 1.8% in January, but there’s still ground to be made up to reach last October’s peak.

Global markets showed volatility due to geopolitical threats including the Trump administration’s rhetoric and actions on Iran, Venezuela and Greenland.

Click here to view our update.

Please get in touch on 03 9723 0522 if you’d like assistance with your personal financial situation.

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This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd (ABN 35 994 727 125) as a Corporate Authorised Representative (1316489) of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd (AFSL 225051). Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

If you are planning to buy your first home in 2026, staying across the latest government support could make a bigger difference than you think, so we’ve provided a wrap up of all the latest schemes up for consideration in the coming year.

Schemes and incentives change regularly, and knowing what help is available right now could be the key to getting into the market sooner, with less upfront cost and less pressure on your budget.

From low deposit loan options and assistance for buyers still saving, to state schemes and new programs aimed at boosting housing supply, there is a range of support designed to help first home buyers, not just get a foot on the door, but also take that first step with confidence.

Here is what you need to know.

The First Home Guarantee (FHBG)

Under this scheme, eligible buyers can purchase a property with a 5% deposit and avoid paying lenders mortgage insurance (LMI). This can save buyers tens of thousands of dollars and significantly reduce the time it takes to save for a home deposit.

More than 21,000 first home buyers have used the First Home Guarantee to enter the property market since the scheme saw a large-scale expansion last October and the government forecasts about 70,000 buyers will access the expanded scheme in its first year.

The expansion saw the removal of limits on the number of places available. Previously, only a set number of buyers could access the scheme each year. Now, any eligible first home buyer with a 5% deposit can apply.

Income caps were also removed, meaning buyers are no longer locked out based on how much they earn. This has made the scheme accessible to a broader range of first home buyers, particularly those earning solid incomes but still struggling to save a large deposit.

On top of that, property price caps were lifted across capital cities and regional areas to better reflect real market prices. This means buyers can now use the scheme for a wider range of homes, including properties in higher priced suburbs that were previously out of reach.

Regional buyers also benefited from simpler rules, with regional support folded into the main scheme so all buyers are assessed under the same framework.

Since May 2022, the scheme has helped more than 200,000 people into home ownership, showing just how important low deposit options have become.

First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS)

For buyers still saving, the First Home Super Saver Scheme can be a powerful tool.

This scheme allows first home buyers to make voluntary contributions into their super and later withdraw those funds to use as part of a home deposit. Because super is taxed at a lower rate, this can help buyers save faster compared to using a standard savings account.

There are limits on how much can be contributed and withdrawn, so it is important to plan ahead and understand the rules before relying on the scheme.

Help to Buy Scheme

Another option is this shared-equity program where the government contributes up to 30 per cent of the purchase price for existing homes or 40% for new homes, letting you buy with as little as a 2%t deposit and a smaller mortgage, while you own and live in the home and the government holds a proportional equity share that you can buy back over time or repay when you sell.

State and territory first home owner grants

Most states and territories continue to offer first home owner grants, particularly for buyers purchasing new or substantially renovated homes.

Grant amounts and eligibility rules vary depending on where you buy, but they can provide a valuable boost to a deposit or help cover upfront costs such as legal fees and inspections.

Stamp duty concessions and exemptions

Stamp duty is often one of the biggest upfront costs when buying a home. To ease this burden, many states and territories offer stamp duty concessions or full exemptions for eligible first home buyers.

In some cases, buyers pay reduced stamp duty, while others may pay none at all if the property falls under certain price thresholds. These concessions can save buyers a significant amount of money.

Shared equity and state-based programs

Some states also offer shared equity schemes, where the government contributes a portion of the purchase price in exchange for an ownership stake in the property. This can reduce the size of the loan needed and make repayments more manageable.

Availability and conditions vary by state, and there are usually limits on income and property value.

Boosting supply through the First Home Supply Program

Affordability is not just about saving a deposit. It is also about having enough homes available to buy.

That is where the First Home Supply Program comes in. Through this program, the Government is working with states, territories and industry to unlock more housing supply and make it easier for first home buyers to own a home of their own.

The focus is on increasing the number of new, well located and affordable homes that suit first home buyers. By building more homes and easing supply pressure, the program aims to improve choice and reduce competition at the entry level of the market. Construction on the first homes will start in 2026–27, with first home buyers to begin moving in from 2027−28.

With property prices still high in many parts of Australia, government support can make a real difference, however with so many schemes on offer, it can quickly become confusing to work out what you qualify for and which options will actually benefit you the most.

We can help you cut through the noise, understand your options and put together a clear plan to buy with confidence. If you are thinking about buying your first home in 2026, talk to us.

Getting on top of your finances is one of the most common new year’s resolutions. But sticking to them can be hard. 

If you want to get your finances unstuck, here are five money tasks you can tick off during your summer down time, that will help set you up for success this year.

Check your credit card’s working for you

Australians owe around $33 billion on credit cards with $18 billion of that money accruing interest. At an average credit card interest rate of 18%, it’s an expensive habit.

If you pay your credit card off every month then the interest rate doesn’t matter (because you’re not being charged interest). But if you carry a debt from month to month, it’s worth comparing credit cards and choosing one that works best for you.

Also check these tips on credit card balance transfers. And try the credit card calculator to see how quickly you could pay off your debt.

Use this credit card calculator

Give your health insurance a health check

It’s a great idea to review your private health insurance periodically as your life changes, to make sure it covers the things you’re most likely to need.

With more than 30 insurers offering multiples of products though, it’s a daunting task.

Fortunately you can compare all private health insurers and policies on the Australian Government’s PrivateHealth.gov.au website. That way, you can make a shortlist of options that could be right for you.

Here are some tips on what to look for.

Review your mortgage

Home loans can be a set and forget product – but there can be an interest rate difference of more than 2% in variable home loan rates on the market. That could make a big difference to the cost.

Here are some tips on switching home loans. And use this mortgage calculator to compare different rates and see how much you might be able to save.

Use the mortgage calculator

Find your super

There’s almost $19 billion in lost and ATO-held super, waiting for rightful owners to find it. If some of that belongs to you then it’s better off in your super account, building for your retirement!

Find out more about lost super and do a lost super search on the ATO website.

Do a written budget

Writing down goals apparently makes them more likely to happen. So having a written budget can be a good way to help you save this year.

Here are plenty of tips for saving money (from checking your utilities bills to choosing a new phone plan).  And the Budget planner makes it easy work out where your money is going – and what you can afford.

Use this budget planner

Don’t hesitate to ask for help

If 2026 hasn’t started with your best foot forward, there’s help available, so don’t hesitate to ask.

Source: Reproduced with the permission of ASIC’s MoneySmart Team. This article was originally published at https://moneysmart.gov.au/media-centre/five-money-tasks-to-start-the-new-year

Many investors breathed a sigh of relief at having survived (and even thrived) the turbulent economic and political events of 2025.

Super funds posted strong double-digit returns for the 2024-2025 financial year. Australia recorded modest economic growth, while inflation cooled a little throughout the year – albeit with a slight uptick at year’s end – and house prices surged before hitting the brakes

The big picture

Markets and economies around the world have danced to the tune of the Trump Administration’s second term in office and reacted to wars and unrest in the Middle East and Ukraine.

The US President’s often surprising policy twists and turns, particularly a punishing new tariff regime, saw markets falter and exporters of goods and services to the US plunged into uncertainty. As one commentator put it: “Over the past 12 months, the US has seen every norm of economic policy – trade policy, fiscal policy, monetary policy – blithely tossed aside.”

The Australian dollar reflected the choppy conditions, hitting lows just under 0.60 USD in April before recovering slightly by year-end at just under 0.67 USD, this was buoyed by our strong iron ore exports and the growing demand for lithium, copper and rare earths.

The artificial intelligence revolution was another feature of the year, driving US share markets ever higher with some fearing the bubble is overdue to burst.

Economy

Inflation’s stubborn resistance to the Reserve Bank’s measures to bring it down could lead to further interest rate rises in 2026.

The Consumer Price Index eased slightly in November 2025, while figures released in early January 2026 showed an annual rate of 3.4%, down 0.4% on the previous month. The RBA’s flexible inflation target aims to keep the cost of living increases between 2 and 3 %

The cash rate began 2025 at 4.35% but after three cuts during the year, it was down to 3.6% in December. The RBA is due to meet in February to consider its next move.

In the US, the Federal Reserve also cut rates three times, putting the interest rate to a range of 3.5 – 3.75%.

The Australian economy grew 2.1% in the year to September in a massive improvement on the previous year’s growth of 0.8%.

Property

After two uneven years, home values surged again in 2025 by 8.6%, adding about $71,500 to the national median.ⁱⁱⁱ

It’s the strongest calendar year performance since the remarkable 24.5% increase in 2021.

However, values softened in December, recording the smallest monthly increase in five months, and some suggest the risk of further rate rises this year may keep prices in check.

Darwin delivered the best performance with an 18.9% gain in values during the year while Melbourne took the wooden spoon with a 4.8% increase.

Share markets

Global equity markets proved that they could thrive, even in a higher-interest rate environment, and the AI revolution moved from the hype phase of the previous year to serious players in 2025.

While ‘The Magnificent Seven’ tech stocks have long ruled the S&P 500, in 2025 just two outperformed the index with a gain of 64.8% for Alphabet and 38.9% for Nvidia.

It was a slower pace for Australian markets with the S&P/ASX 200 delivering a solid total return of 6.8%. While the big banks faced some pressure on margins as interest rates peaked, the materials sector was supported by the global energy transition. Dividend yields remained attractive, continuing Australia’s tradition of providing reliable income for retirees and SMSFs.

Commodities

Precious metals drove commodity values in the past year with investors looking for security amid interest rate movements and geopolitical tensions.

Silver was up by an astonishing 182% during the year, but a sell-off in December saw the price finish the year with a 147% gain.

The remarkable run drew comparisons with the last bubble and ultimate crash in 1980, after a rise of 713%.

Meanwhile, gold’s safe haven status during times of uncertainty saw it jump by 65% during the year.

Continued demand from China kept the price of iron ore steadily increasing in the last half of 2025.

Looking ahead

It seems likely the issues that dominated the financial markets in 2025 may continue to shape performance and returns this year.

Global politics and war are likely to move commodity prices and equity markets while the contrariness of US foreign policy will both spook and buoy investors.

AI capability and implementation will grow apace, which is likely to see action on equity markets, but don’t forget warnings that the bubble may burst.

In Australia, all eyes will be on the RBA, with high levels of speculation as to where interest rates will be heading in 2026.

If buying a home is on your to-do list for 2026, now is the perfect time to start preparing. A successful property purchase begins well before you start attending open homes or talking to real estate or buyers’ agents. By organising your finances early, you can move quickly and confidently when the right property comes along.

Start with your budget

A clear, realistic budget is the foundation of any successful home purchase. Understanding your income and expenses helps you see what you can comfortably afford and how much you can save for your deposit.

Track your spending for a couple of months to identify where your money goes. Look for ways you can save, such as getting rid of unused subscriptions or dining out less often. These small savings opportunities can add up over time. Consistent saving not only builds your deposit but also shows lenders that you manage money responsibly.

Review and reduce debt

Once your budget is in place, take a close look at any existing debts such as credit cards, personal loans, or car finance. Lenders consider your current financial commitments when deciding how much you can borrow, so managing debt effectively can make a real difference to your borrowing capacity.

Paying down high-interest debts, consolidating where appropriate, and avoiding new credit in the months before applying for a home loan can strengthen your financial position. Even small reductions in your monthly repayments can boost your overall borrowing power.

Check and protect your credit score

Your credit score plays an important role in determining both your loan eligibility and the interest rates available to you. Request a free copy of your credit report from a reputable provider and review it carefully for any errors or outdated information.

Make sure all bills and existing loans are paid on time and try to limit new credit applications. A strong, consistent repayment history tells lenders you are a reliable borrower and puts you in a better position when applying for a mortgage.

Research the market

Once your finances are under control, start researching the property market. Understanding your preferred suburbs and property types will help you set realistic expectations and make confident decisions later.

Look at recent sales, price trends, and the types of properties available in your budget range. Visit open homes, talk to local agents, and learn about transport links, schools, and amenities. The more familiar you are, the better prepared you will be when it is time to make an offer.

Understand the true costs of buying

Buying a home involves more than just saving a deposit. Additional costs such as stamp duty, legal fees, inspections, loan establishment fees, and moving expenses all need to be factored in. Knowing these costs upfront will help you plan more accurately and avoid any unexpected financial surprises.

Your mortgage broker can help you estimate the full cost of buying, including upfront and ongoing expenses, so you can make confident, informed decisions.

Explore government support

If you are a first home buyer or meet certain eligibility criteria, you may be able to access government grants, stamp duty concessions, or guarantee schemes that reduce the amount you need to save for a deposit.

Each state and territory offers different programs, so it is worth checking what is available in your area. Your broker can help you identify which grants you may be eligible for and assist you with the application process. These incentives can make a big difference in helping you enter the market sooner.

Understand how much you can borrow

Once you have a handle on your finances and a clear idea of your target areas, it is time to find out how much you can borrow. Your mortgage broker can calculate your borrowing capacity based on your income, expenses, and savings, and help you compare lenders and loan options.

It is also wise to consider getting pre-approval before you start house hunting. Pre-approval gives you a clear idea of your budget and shows sellers that you are serious. It also allows you to move quickly and confidently when you find the right property.

Preparing to buy a home takes time and organisation, but it is one of the best investments you can make in your financial future. We can help you put everything in place for home-buying success in 2026.

If you have any questions or need any information please give us a call on 039723 0522.