Super wasn’t improved in this Budget — but with almost everything around it taxed more heavily, it has quietly become the most powerful structure on your balance sheet. By Andre Dirckze, Principal Adviser, Wealth Effect Group Article 4 of our detailed Federal Budget 2026–27 series. For the overview briefing, see [link to hero article]. Most Budget commentary frames superannuation as a "non-event" in this package — left alone, no major changes, move on. That framing misses

You've built a business most people would envy. So why do your personal finances often feel unstructured, exposed, and strangely behind? Here's the trap — and how to get out of it. By Andre Dirckze, Principal Adviser, Wealth Effect Group The pattern we see again and again There's a particular kind of business owner we meet often. They've built something real. Strong revenue, a good team, a business that genuinely works, and that most people would be thrilled to own

From 1 July 2028, every discretionary trust in Australia faces a 30% minimum tax. A three-year restructure window opens 1 July 2027. Here's how to think about it. By Andre Dirckze, Principal Adviser, Wealth Effect Group Article 3 of our detailed Federal Budget 2026–27 series. For the overview briefing, see [link to hero article]. Why this article matters more than the headlines suggest Of the three major reforms in this Budget — CGT, negative gearing and trusts — the tr

By Andre Dirckze, Principal Adviser, Wealth Effect Group The Treasurer framed the 2026 Federal Budget around the concept of intergenerational fairness. That is the Government's chosen language, and reasonable people can disagree about whether the measures live up to the framing. What is not in dispute is who carries the practical weight of the reforms. The cohort most directly affected by the changes to capital gains tax, negative gearing and discretionary trusts is the one

By Andre Dirckze, Principal Adviser, Wealth Effect Group Article 2 of our detailed Federal Budget 2026–27 series. For the overview briefing, see [link to hero article]. The shortest accurate summary of the negative gearing reforms is this: If you already own an investment property as at 7:30pm AEST on 12 May 2026, you are fully grandfathered — nothing changes for that property. Your existing negative gearing arrangements continue indefinitely, against any income type, for

By Andre Dirckze, Principal Adviser, Wealth Effect Group Article 2 of our detailed Federal Budget 2026–27 series. For the overview briefing, see [link to hero article]. In the past few days since the Budget, we have had more inbound enquiries about capital gains tax than at any point in the past decade. The pattern of the questions is telling. Almost every caller starts with a version of the same sentence: "Should I sell my investment property before the rules change?" The

The most significant rewrite of Australia's wealth and tax rules in over two decades — and a defined 14-month planning window for those who act deliberately. A note before you read on This briefing is written for Australians who have spent two or three decades building wealth — through property, business, family trusts, share portfolios and superannuation — and who now face the most significant rewrite of the tax rules underpinning that wealth in over twenty years. If that is

For years, investors have used trusts and companies to support estate planning, asset protection and family income distribution. Those structures remain valid — but the lending landscape around them has changed materially. Banks are now taking a far more conservative view of lending to non‑personal borrowers, particularly where trusts or companies are being used primarily to stretch borrowing capacity rather than to support a genuine commercial or family objective. Much of th

Today, the Reserve Bank of Australia increased the official cash rate by 25 basis points, taking it from 3.85% to 4.10%. This marks a second rate increase in 2026 and reinforces a clear message to households, borrowers and investors: inflation remains a problem, and interest rates are likely to stay higher for longer . For many Australians already feeling stretched, today’s decision turns what had been a risk into a reality — higher repayments, tighter cash flow and renewed

Deciding to separate from your partner is one of the most difficult decisions a person can make. It rarely happens in isolation. There is often emotional exhaustion, uncertainty about the future, and a quiet fear about how everything will work once life as you knew it changes. For many people, money becomes the greatest source of anxiety during separation. Questions that once felt distant suddenly feel urgent. Will I be okay? Can I afford to live on my own? What happens to ev

Once the initial emotional shock of a separation begins to subside, the financial consequences often emerge with brutal clarity — and, in many cases, far too late. While some separations are genuinely amicable, these are typically characterised by financial symmetry: both parties earn income, understand the household balance sheet, and can independently support the lifestyle they wish to maintain. Unfortunately, this is not the norm. More commonly, there is a primary income e

Executive summary – one week on In our update to clients last week, we noted that markets were responding to the Middle East conflict primarily through energy prices, inflation expectations, interest rates and investor risk appetite , rather than through a deterioration in global economic fundamentals. Since then, that assessment has largely held. Volatility has remained elevated, oil prices have stayed sensitive to headlines, and defensive assets such as gold have continued

Managing money shouldn’t feel complicated or restrictive. One of the most powerful things we see over time is how good financial habits quietly carry forward—from one generation to the next. It’s something we actively encourage established clients to pass on early: not detailed strategies or complex products, but simple, repeatable behaviours that create confidence around money. For those in the accumulation years of life—balancing careers, family responsibilities, and the qu

Recent events in the Middle East are understandably unsettling. Escalating conflict involving Iran has raised concerns about global growth, inflation, and energy prices. History tells us that when geopolitics flare, markets initially react to the risk of disruption, not always the reality of it. Oil prices, equities, currencies and bonds rapidly incorporate new information—often within hours or days—long before most investors have time to act. A focal point of current concer

When people talk about the economy at the moment, the conversation usually centres on households feeling stretched, higher mortgage repayments, and consumers pulling back. And that’s all true — many families are under real pressure. But according to recent research from Westpac, that isn’t the full story. The Role of Public Spending Behind the scenes, government and publicly funded spending has become one of the biggest forces supporting Australia’s economy. In fact, Westpac’

Current Market Trends Global and Australian equities have faced notable declines recently. The technology and materials sectors are leading this sell-off. Central banks are cautious, signalling “higher-for-longer” interest rates. Inflation remains sticky, adding to the complexity. Despite these challenges, Australia’s economy is tracking toward a soft landing. Resilient housing demand and steady consumption support this outlook. Short-Term Outlook (3–6 Months) Expect continue

Planning for retirement can feel like a big mountain to climb, especially when you’re juggling work, family, and life’s daily surprises. But here’s the good news: with the right retirement wealth strategies , you can build a solid financial foundation that lets you enjoy your golden years without stress. Whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, or already approaching retirement, it’s never too late to take control of your financial future. Let’s dive into some practical, easy-to-unde

Planning for the future might not be the most thrilling topic, but trust me, getting your estate transition planning right is one of the smartest moves you can make. Whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, or enjoying retirement, having a clear plan ensures your hard-earned wealth goes exactly where you want it to. So, let’s dive into some practical tips and strategies that will make this process straightforward and even a bit empowering. Why Estate Transition Planning Matters More

A Time for Steady Hands and Strategic Positioning September Quarter 2025 Inflation Retreats: A Moment to Reassess, Not Retreat After two years of inflation dominating headlines and portfolios, we’re finally seeing signs of relief. Inflation is easing globally, and central banks—particularly the US Federal Reserve and the RBA—are holding steady. This isn’t a moment for panic or dramatic repositioning. It’s a moment to pause, reassess, and ensure your strategy is aligned with t

When it comes to securing your financial future, especially as you move through your 40s, 50s, and beyond, having a solid plan is non-negotiable. You might be thinking, "Where do I even start?" or "How can I make my money work smarter, not harder?" Well, you're in the right place. Let’s dive into some practical investment strategies for planning that can help you build wealth and enjoy peace of mind. Investing isn’t just for the young or the ultra-rich. It’s for anyone who wa