At this time of year, when giving is on our minds, many people may turn their attention to how best to share their wealth or an unexpected windfall with loved ones.

You might be considering a lump sum to help with a major purchase or a business opportunity, or perhaps you’re eager to assist in reducing or clearing a loved one’s student loans. Alternatively, you may want to help them address a housing challenge.

Whatever the reason, it’s important to be aware of a few key rules to ensure that both you and your loved ones are protected.

Giving a cash gift

You can give anyone—family or not—a cash gift of any amount. As long as you don’t materially benefit from the gift or expect anything in return, neither you nor the recipient will need to pay tax on it.¹

The same applies if you’re planning to pay off your child’s student loans.

However, if the beneficiary of your cash gift is receiving a government benefit, such as unemployment benefits or a student allowance, be aware that there are limits on the amount they can receive without affecting their payments.

They can receive up to $10,000 in one financial year or $30,000 over five financial years, with no more than $10,000 allowed in any single financial year.²

Helping with housing

Many parents also like to help their children enter the property market, where possible.

The past few years have been challenging for many, with the COVID-19 pandemic, rising living costs, increasing interest rates, and a housing crisis.

A Productivity Commission report released this year found that while most people born between 1976 and 1982 earn more than their parents did at a similar age, income growth has slowed for those born after 1990.³

With money tight and house prices climbing, three in five renters don’t believe they will ever own a home, even though most (78 per cent) aspire to homeownership, according to data from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI).⁴

Just over half of those surveyed (52 per cent) were renting because they didn’t have enough for a home deposit, while 42 per cent said they couldn’t afford to buy anything suitable, the AHURI survey found.

In this climate, parental assistance to buy a home isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s becoming a necessity for many.

Moving home

Allowing your adult child—perhaps with a partner and family—to live rent-free in the family home is a common option, giving them a chance to save for a deposit.

An Australian survey found that one in ten people had moved back in with their parents, either to save money or because they could no longer afford to rent.⁵

If living under the same roof becomes too challenging, building a granny flat in your backyard may be an option. Of course, council regulations must be considered, permits obtained, and the cost of building or purchasing a kit factored in—but on the upside, it may add value to your home.

Becoming a guarantor

Another way to help might be to become a guarantor on your child’s mortgage. While this could be the best path into homeownership for many, it’s important to think it through carefully, understand the loan contract, and be aware of the risks.⁶

Remember, as a guarantor, you are responsible for the debt. If your child can’t repay the loan, you will be required to step in and repay it, and any default will be listed on your own credit report.

If you feel pressured to become a guarantor, it may be a sign of financial abuse. There are several avenues for advice and support if you’re concerned.

Obtaining independent legal advice before signing any loan documents is essential.

Whether you’re thinking about giving a financial gift, helping with housing, or becoming a guarantor, it’s important to navigate the options carefully.  For current clients, we encourage you to reach out to your adviser directly for personalised guidance. If you’re not yet a client and would like to learn how to support your children while safeguarding your own financial wellbeing, our expert advisers are here to help—contact us today.

Sources

i Tax on gifts and inheritances | ATO Community

ii How much you can gift – Age Pension – Services Australia

iii Fairly equal? Economic mobility in Australia – Commission Research Paper – Productivity Commission

iv Rising proportion of ‘forever renters’ requires tax and policy re-think | AHURI

v Coming home: 662,000 Australian households reunite with adult children – finder.com.au

vi Going guarantor on a loan – Moneysmart.gov.au

Welcome to summer—a season of activity, last-minute tasks, and celebrations with family and friends. We take this opportunity to wish you and your family a joy-filled and safe festive season!

While headline inflation eased to 2.8% in the September quarter, the Reserve Bank remains firm on interest rates. RBA Governor Michelle Bullock acknowledges that the drop in the cost of living may offer welcome relief for most of us, but the Board’s key focus is on trimmed mean inflation, which still isn’t “sustainably” within the desired target range of 2-3%. According to the RBA, it’s unlikely to reach that range until late 2026.

The share market reacted sharply to the Governor’s comments in the final days of a month that had seen several all-time highs. US President-elect Trump’s promise of 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods also contributed to the billion-dollar share sell-off. Nonetheless, the S&P/ASX 200 finished November 3.4% higher.

The Australian dollar also took a hit, driven by concerns over potential US tariffs and the RBA’s interest rate outlook. It fell to a seven-month low, dipping below 65 US cents near the end of the month.

In positive news, the ANZ-Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence Index, while slightly down, has remained above 85 points for six consecutive weeks—the first time in two years. Meanwhile, Commonwealth Bank projections anticipate a boost in sales for small businesses, driven by Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales and the upcoming festive season.

If there is something affecting your financial situation that you would like to discuss, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team.

A common question from families transitioning a loved one into aged care centres on asset declaration, particularly about the family home and jointly held assets. Families often feel uncertain about what must be declared for the aged care fee assessment.

In general, the family home is exempt from assessment if a spouse continues to live there or if there is another ‘protected person,’ which may include:

• a carer who has lived in the home for at least two years prior to the resident’s entry into care and is eligible to receive an income support payment (eg Carer Payment), or
• a close relative who has lived in the home for at least five years before the resident moves into care and is eligible for an income support payment (eg Age Pension, JobSeeker, or Disability Support Pension).

Other assets, whether in Australia or abroad, owned individually or jointly by the person or their spouse, need to be declared. This requirement also extends to income. Many people are unaware that the obligation to declare assets and income continues beyond the initial assessment and that future changes, including Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) payments, must be disclosed.

For Age Pension purposes, the family home remains exempt as long as the spouse lives there, extending up to two years after the spouse leaves. After this period, it is assessed based on its net market value. However, for aged care purposes, the two-year exemption does not apply, and the former home becomes an assessable asset, up to a capped amount, as soon as the spouse leaves.

Some common asset assessment scenarios

When the sole occupant moves to a care facility:

If a person living alone enters permanent residential aged care, the net market value of their family home is assessed up to a capped maximum amount. If the property is retained, its value is only assessed up to the capped amount for the aged care asset test. If the former family home is subsequently rented out, the net rental income becomes assessable under the aged care income test.

When a spouse is living in the home

If one member of a couple enters permanent residential aged care while their spouse remains at home, the family home is exempt from the aged care means test during this time. However, if the spouse vacates the home or also moves into residential care, the family home becomes assessable under the aged care means test, subject to a capped maximum amount.

When a carer in the home is eligible for an income support payment

If a carer has lived in the home for at least two years before the resident entered care and qualifies for an income support payment, the home may be exempt from the aged care means test assessment.

When a close relative is eligible for an income support payment

The exemption rule for the family home under the aged care means test also applies when a resident is living with a close relative who has resided in the home for at least five years before the resident enters care and is eligible for an income support payment.

We’re here to help, every step of the way

Aged care finances can be complex, so it’s important to understand your options and how they relate to your family’s situation. If you’re unsure about your current situation or how asset assessments may impact your care situation moving forward, our advisers can put you in touch with Alteris’ Lifestyle and Care team.

Alteris’ team of specialist financial advisers are here to assist you in navigating these rules and making informed choices that consider both immediate and long-term outcomes. They can can also provide full support with ensuring the fees and pension are correct by working directly with your accommodation provider, Services Australia and the relevant government departments.

Learn more about Alteris Financial Group’s accredited aged care financial advisers.

Self-managed super funds (SMSFs) can offer their members many benefits, but one that’s often overlooked is their potential as a multigenerational wealth creation and transfer vehicle.

Family SMSFs are relatively rare. According to the most recent ATO statistics (2022-23), the majority of SMSFs (93.2 per cent) have only one or two members. ⁱ  Just 6.6 per cent have three or four members, and only 0.3 per cent have five or six members (the maximum allowed).

Advantages of a family SMSF

An SMSF is sometimes established when two or more generations of a family share ownership or work in a family business. The fund can then form part of a personal and business succession plan, potentially making it easier to pass on ownership and management of assets to the next generation.

With more members, SMSFs also gain additional scale, allowing them to invest in larger assets, such as property. You can add business premises to the SMSF and lease it back without violating the related parties rule and 5 per cent limit on in-house assets. ⁱⁱ

Reduced tax and administration costs are also benefits of multigenerational funds.

Running a family SMSF means the costs of establishing and administering the fund are spread across more members. This can be particularly helpful for adult children who are beginning to save for retirement.

In addition, more fund members mean more people to share the administrative burdens of running an SMSF, which may be helpful as you get older

A family SMSF does not need to be automatically wound up if you die or lose mental capacity, and it can simplify the process of paying out a member’s death benefit, potentially allowing it to be paid tax-effectively. Note that death benefits paid to non-tax dependent beneficiaries incur a tax rate of up to 30 per cent, plus the Medicare levy. ⁱⁱⁱ

More fund members also make setting up a limited recourse borrowing arrangement (LRBA) easier because their contributions reduce the fund’s risk of being unable to pay the borrowing costs. (An LRBA allows an SMSF to borrow money to buy assets).

Funding pension payments

Another advantage of an SMSF with up to six members arises when the fund begins making pension payments to older members.

If younger members are still making regular contributions, fund assets don’t need to be sold to make pension payments, which helps avoid the realisation of capital gains on assets.

Family SMSFs can also provide non-financial benefits by facilitating the transfer of financial knowledge and expertise between generations. While your children gain a solid financial education from participating in the management of the SMSF, they can also offer valuable investment insights from a different perspective.

Risks and responsibilities

It is important to note that a multigenerational SMSF may not be suitable for everyone.

SMSFs of any size come with certain risks and responsibilities. You are personally liable for the fund’s decisions, even if you act on the advice of a professional, and your investments may not yield the returns you were hoping for.

Before you start adding your children and their spouses to your fund, it’s essential to consider the challenges of running a family SMSF. Developing an asset allocation strategy that caters to different life stages can be complex. Older members may prefer a strategy designed to deliver a consistent income stream, while younger members are typically more focused on capital growth.

Risk profiles are also likely to vary. Generally, younger fund members have a higher appetite for investment risk than those closer to retirement.

Family conflict can also arise when relationships are strained due to divorce, blended families, and personality clashes.

The death of a parent can also create disputes over the distribution of fund assets or forced asset sales. Decisions about the payment of death benefits by the remaining trustees can derail carefully made estate plans and result in expensive legal battles.

Larger families with multiple adult children and partners may also find the six member limit an obstacle, forcing them to look at other options such as running several family SMSFs in parallel.

The process of choosing the best approach for a self-managed superannuation fund depends on your financial situation and goals,

Whether you’re already working with us or just starting to explore your options, we’re here to help. If you’re an existing client, reach out to your adviser to discuss your next steps. If you’re new and looking for guidance, our experienced advisers are ready to answer your questions and help you take the first step toward achieving your financial goals.

Let’s start the conversation today.

Sources

 i SMSF quarterly statistical report June 2024 | data.gov.au

ii Related parties and relatives | Australian Taxation Office

iii Paying superannuation death benefits | Australian Taxation Office

For many Australians approaching retirement, the idea of stopping work completely is becoming less appealing. Instead, the trend is shifting towards making work optional, giving those nearing retirement age the freedom to decide how much (or how little) they want to work. Whether it’s through part-time work, freelancing, volunteering, or pursuing a hobby-turned-business, the goal is often to maintain a sense of purpose while enjoying the flexibility that retirement provides. This article explores some of the important considerations to help make this lifestyle work for you.

Think about when you want to make work optional

There’s no set age to stop working; it will depend on your health, work options, finances, and personal circumstances.

Are you looking at making work optional in ten years, two to five years, or next year? If you have a partner, when will they stop working? Knowing how much time you have makes the planning process easier.

Discuss your priorities with your partner a colleague or friend. If you need professional advice to determine your timeline toward an optional work lifestyle, our financial advisers can assist.

Consider your lifestyle and priorities

Set your priorities

Making work optional requires a clear understanding of your financial situation and what you want your life to look like during this period.

Consider:

• your living costs
• social life and recreation
• staying active and healthy
• volunteering or community participation
• planning for changing health needs or aged care
• supporting your family, children or grandchildren (if any)

Keep working, reduce hours or retrain

Continuing to earn an income, even part-time, can help maintain a sense of purpose and make your savings last longer. If you decide to keep working, options include:

• Job Switch — explore options to retrain or seek part-time work
• Transition to retirement — if you’ve reached your preservation age, you can use some of, and keep contributing to your super while working
• Work Bonus — if you get the Age Pension, you can earn up to $300 per fortnight from work before your pension payment reduces.

Plan where you will live

If you own your home:

• If you still have a mortgage, you could use some of your super (when available) to pay it off.
• Consider downsizing to free up money. You could pay off your mortgage, support your lifestyle, or relocate to be closer to family or services. Before going ahead, check the tax impact and whether it will affect your government benefits.

If you’re renting:

• You may be eligible for an extra payment if you rent and get payments from Centrelink, like the Age Pension. To find out more, see rent assistance on the Services Australia website.

Work out your income and living costs

How much money you’ll need for living costs, once moving to an optional work lifestyle, depends on your priorities and what you can afford.

For many people, their income will be a combination of superannuation and the Age Pension. If you don’t have a large super balance, you may be more reliant on the age pension. If you do have a larger super balance, think about how and when to withdraw it. You may also have extra savings or investments that can be used to fund living costs.

Work out your living costs

• Housing — rent or mortgage, rates, home and contents insurance, maintenance
• Utilities — electricity, gas, water, phone, internet, streaming services
• Food — fresh food, groceries, takeaway, dining out
• Clothing and household goods — clothing, personal care, furniture, household appliances
• Health and leisure — health insurance, health care, social activities, fitness, holidays, gifts
• Transport — car registration, insurance and running costs, public transport

As a rule of thumb, try allowing for two thirds of your current living costs. This is a useful guide, that assumes reduced costs for work and that you’ve paid off your mortgage.

Your spending may be higher when you first retire. For example, if you plan to travel or update your home. You may also need to allow more *income to be spent on healthcare as you get older.

Get your super income

You access funds within your super upon retirement or once you reach your ‘preservation age’. Which is between 55 and 60, depending on when you were born.

When you are eligible to withdraw your super, your main options are:

• an account-based pension
• an annuity
• a lump sum
• or a combination of these

You could also consider a transition to retirement strategy. This provides the option for individuals to use some of, and keep contributing to, your super while working.

Claim government benefits

From age 67 (or earlier, if born before 1957), you may be eligible for government benefits such as:

• Age Pension
• Pensioner concessions
• Health care benefits
• Tax offsets

As mentioned previously, if you decide that you want to continue to work while also receiving the Age Pension, you can earn up to $300 per fortnight from work before your pension payment reduces.

Add in savings and investments

If you have money in savings, you could use this to top up your retirement income, which will aid in making work optional for you.

If you have investments like shares or an investment property(s), think about whether to keep or sell. Check the costs, tax impact and whether it will affect your government benefits.

Seek professional advice

At The Investment Collective, our financial advisers are here to help you build a clear plan tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and financial situation. We understand that every step counts, whether it’s deciding when to reduce work hours, accessing superannuation, or maximising government benefits.

If there is anything in particular you would like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.

It’s the last month of spring, and with summer on the way, many people are preparing for Christmas and the holiday period.

At its latest meeting, the Reserve Bank of Australia left interest rates unchanged at 4.35%, citing persistently high underlying inflation of 3.5% for the September quarter, which remains above the RBA’s 2.5% target midpoint. This suggests rates are likely to stay elevated for some time, offering little reprieve for mortgage-holding households. The Consumer Price Index rose just 0.2% in the September quarter and 2.8% over the twelve months to the September 2024 quarter, marking the lowest rate in just over three years. Prices fell slightly for alcohol and tobacco, clothing, housing, health, and financial services. Transport costs also fell for the first time since 2020.

Share prices softened during the last two weeks of October, recording the worst monthly performance in six months. The S&P/ASX 200 closed down by 1.31% for the month, after reaching record highs again mid-month.

The Australian dollar ended the month at 65.7 US cents after almost hitting 70 US cents just a few weeks ago. Investors reacted to weaker-than-expected Australian retail sales and stronger US unemployment and retail sales figures.

Iron ore has hit a one-month low at USD 104.08 after the heady highs in January of almost USD 145. All eyes are on meetings in China this month about expanding its stimulus measures. However, post meeting, the stimulus disappointed investors with many investors believing China is keeping its tactical powder dry in play as the Trump-China tariff negotiations build.

Back over in the US, after a long and hard-fought campaign, the US Election finally concluded. Leading up to polling day, it was expected to be a tight race, but the Don (Donald Trump), managed to pull off a historic White House comeback in emphatic fashion. While the future may hold more uncertainty, shorter term US equity markets rejoiced, with the S&P 500 (+2.53%), Nasdaq (2.95%) and Russell 2000 (small cap representative, +5.84%) all surging post the election result. President elect Trump’s policies of supporting lower corporate tax rates, deregulation and industrial policies that favour domestic growth were all positive for the stock market. Kamala Harris was graceful in defeat and highlighted the “importance of a peaceful transfer of power and being a president for all Americans,” Longer term implications are yet to be felt. Mr. Trump’s policies are more inflationary e.g. imposing very high tariffs (e.g. 60%) on China and maintaining larger budget deficits is likely to have a ripple effect to Australia’s trade. Adding other uncertainties such as climate change policy (e.g. backing fossil fuels) and global trade war with China creates an uncomfortable environment.

If there is something affecting your financial situation that you would like to discuss, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team.

On the 16th and 22nd of October, The Investment Collective hosted Client Seminars in Melbourne and Rockhampton. The seminars brought together clients to explore the important topic of how you can help your adult children financially. This is a common question that our clients ask us, and so it was not surprising that we had record-breaking attendance at both events. Each seminar hosted over 50 clients who enjoyed an in-depth market and economic update, followed by panel discussions focused on providing practical tips to guide their children while safeguarding their own financial wellbeing.

Kicking off the client seminars was an update on Australian and Global Markets presented by Danny Wong (Manager, Research, Alteris Financial Group). Danny’s presentation provided attendees with insights into various industry trends, highlighted current economic opportunities, and discussed potential prospects.

We were very fortunate to have Chris Hill (Senior Lawyer, Hill Legal and Inherit Australia), Katina Kyreakou (Special Counsel, Swanwick Murray and Roche Lawyers) and our financial advisers Cheng Qian, Liz Whalley, and Allan McGregor, join our panel discussions.

The panel explored pre-inheritance and the “Bank of Mum and Dad,” covering topics such as gifting money to children or grandchildren, setting up loans, and understanding the differences and implications of each option. Chris and Katina also discussed the importance of contracts when financially assisting children, as well as the value of clear communication and setting expectations throughout this process. Additionally, the panel emphasised the importance of regularly reviewing estate plans and shared common considerations they encounter when working with families.

‘’Watch and be aware, things change. Family gifts/loans are very complex – get advice!’’ – Event Attendee

Thank you to everyone who joined us, and to our speakers for sharing their wealth of knowledge with all in attendance. We look forward to hosting our next client seminars in the new year and continuing to provide a platform for clients, staff, and guest speakers to come together and discuss important financial topics.

Discussing financial education and practical tips with your financial adviser can help you create a roadmap that supports your children’s financial future while ensuring your own financial wellbeing remains secure. If you have a friend or family member who could benefit from personalised financial advice and education, please reach out to us—we’re here to help.

Planning for what happens when you pass away or become incapacitated is an important way of protecting those you care about, saving them from dealing with a financial and administrative mess in the future.

Your will gives you a say in how you want your possessions and investments to be distributed. But importantly, it should also include enduring powers of attorney and guardianship as well as an advance healthcare directive in case you are unable to handle your own affairs towards the end of your life.

At the heart of your estate plan is a valid and up to date will that has been signed by two witnesses. Just one witness may mean your will is invalid.

You must nominate an executor who carries out your wishes. This can be a family member, a friend, a solicitor or the state trustee or guardian.

Keep in mind that an executor’s role can be a laborious one particularly if the will is contested, so that might affect who you choose.

Around 50 per cent of wills are now contested in Australia and some three-quarters of contested wills result in a settlement. ⁱ

The role of the executor also includes locating the will, organising the funeral, providing death notifications to relevant parties and applying for probate.

Intestate issues

Writing a will can be a difficult task for many. It is estimated that around 60 per cent of Australians do not have a valid will in place. ⁱⁱ

If you don’t have a valid will, then you are deemed to have died intestate, and the proceeds of your life will be distributed according to a statutory order which varies slightly between states.

The standard distribution format for the proceeds of an estate is firstly to the surviving spouse. If, however, you have children from an earlier marriage, then the proceeds may be split with the children.

Is probate necessary?

Assuming there is a valid will in place, then in certain circumstances probate needs to be granted by the Supreme Court. Probate rules differ from state to state although, generally, if there are assets solely in the name of the deceased that amount to more than $50,000, then probate is often necessary.

Probate is a court order that confirms the will is valid and that the executors mentioned in the will have the right to administer the estate.

When it comes to the family home, if it’s owned as ‘joint tenants’ between spouses, upon death your share automatically transfers to your surviving spouse. It does not form part of the estate.

However, if the house is only in your name or owned as ‘tenants in common’, then probate will need to be granted. This process generally takes about four weeks.

Unless you have specific reasons for choosing tenants in common for ownership, it may be worth investigating a switch to joint tenants to avoid any issues with probate.

You will also require probate if there is a refund on an accommodation bond from an aged care facility.

Rights of beneficiaries

Bear in mind that beneficiaries of wills have certain rights. These include the right to be informed of the will when they are a beneficiary. They can also expect to hear about any potential delays.

You are also entitled to contest or challenge the will and to know if other parties have contested the will.

Estate planning can be tricky and emotional, particularly when your circumstances are a little more complex. So, get in touch with us to ensure your estate plan meets your wishes and takes account of all the issues, and be sure to revisit it if your circumstances change.

Sources

 i Success rate of contesting a will | Will & Estate Lawyers

ii If you don’t, who will? 12 million Australians have no estate plans | Finder

On 12 September 2024, the Government proposed legislation and aged care fee changes aimed at enhancing the quality of aged care in Australia. These proposed reforms are also set to impact the fees associated with home care and residential care services.

Whether you’re currently receiving care or supporting a loved one on their care journey, it’s essential to understand what these changes could mean for your situation. This article will guide you through the recent fee adjustments and the proposed changes to the aged care system from 1 July 2025. We’ll break down everything you need to know so that you can feel confident and well-informed.

Aged care fee changes from 20 September 2024 (existing residents)

As of 20 September 2024, existing aged care residents will experience changes to the aged care fees charged.

• The Basic Daily Care Fee has increased to $63.57 per day (previously $61.96).
• The thresholds for means-tested fees have been raised, which may result in a reduction in your means-tested care fee.
• For residents assessed with a Daily Accommodation Contribution (DAC), this amount may also change.

The Basic Daily Care Fee is set at 85% of the single age pension rate. On 20 March and 20 September each year, this fee is adjusted in line with cost-of-living changes. Means-tested fees, including the means-tested care fee and/or Daily Accommodation Contribution, are calculated based on your assessable assets and income, using specific thresholds. These thresholds are reviewed quarterly, so even if your assets and income remain unchanged, your means-tested fees may vary.

Proposed aged care fee changes from 1 July 2025

On 12 September 2024, the Government proposed legislation for a new aged care system, expected to come into effect on 1 July 2025. For residents already in the current system, fees are expected to remain unchanged under the new legislation.

Accommodation

The main changes proposed:

1. Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) retention: From 1 July 2025, providers will be able to apply a retention (non-refundable) fee of 2% per annum on the RAD for up to 5 years, with a maximum retention of 10%.
2. Indexing daily accommodation: For residents choosing to pay a daily fee instead of a RAD, the Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) will be indexed twice a year in line with CPI.
3. There will be no changes to the treatment of the family home in the aged care means test assessment process. If a spouse or “protected person” resides there, it remains exempt; otherwise, approximately $208,000 of its value (indexed) will be included in financial assessments.

Daily Care Fees

Home Care (Support at Home)

From 1 July 2025, the Home Care Package framework will transition to the Support at Home Program, with funding categorised into three areas: Clinical Care, Independence, and Everyday Living.

1. New classification system: Recipients will be assessed into one of the ten funding classifications to better align funding with individual needs.
2. Independence and Everyday Living Contributions: While the government will pay 100% of clinical care services, individuals may be required to contribute up to 50% of the price for independence services and up to 80% of the price for everyday living services. The amount payable will be based on Age Pension status or Commonwealth Seniors Health Card eligibility.
3. Home Care grandfathering: Individuals with a Home Care Package on 30 June 2025 will keep the same funding and any unspent funds under the new Support at Home program. Those on the National Priority System or approved for a package by 30 June 2025 will get a Support at Home budget equal to their approved package level when available. If a future assessment entitles a recipient to more funding, they will move to the new Support at Home classification when it’s available.
4. Contribution arrangements: If you were receiving a Home Care Package, on the National Priority System, or assessed as eligible for a package by 12 September 2024, you will not pay more because of the reforms. Your contributions will stay the same or be lower than before. When you move to residential care, your contribution arrangements will remain the same unless you choose to switch to the new program. However, changes to accommodation payments in residential care will still apply, as these are agreed upon between the resident and their provider.

What does this mean for those already in care?

If you’re already part of the current aged care system, fees are expected to remain unchanged under the new legislation. The proposed legislation includes grandfathering provisions, ensuring that the existing rules continue to apply.

It’s helpful to reflect on what happened the last time the rules changed. The current aged care laws, which came into effect on 1 July 2014, did not impose the new fee arrangements on those already in aged care or receiving a home care package. Those looking to move between aged care homes were given the choice to either opt into the new system or stay under the existing rules.

Where can I find out more?

On 12 September 2024, the Australian Government introduced the Aged Care Bill 2024 to Parliament. Once passed, this Bill will become the new Aged Care Act, expected to take effect from 1 July 2025. You can find additional details by clicking the following link. https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/aged-care-act

We are here to help, every step of the way

The proposed reforms to residential aged care and home care are significant. If you’re unsure about your current situation or how these reforms might impact your care situation moving forward, our advisers can put you in touch with Alteris’ Lifestyle and Care team.

Alteris’ specialist division of financial advisers are accredited in aged care advice and can talk you through all available options and explain the various financial considerations. The team can also provide full support with ensuring the fees and pension are correct by working directly with your accommodation provider, Services Australia and the relevant government departments. Learn more about Alteris’ accredited aged care financial advisers.

As parents, one of the most valuable legacies you can leave your children is the gift of financial literacy. Providing practical, tailored advice can set your children on a path to financial stability and success.

Here are five essential financial tips to share with your children:

Importance of insurance

Insurance is a critical safety net that protects against unexpected events. Encourage your children to consider various types of insurance:

• Health Insurance: In Australia, while Medicare provides basic health coverage, private health insurance can offer additional benefits, shorter waiting times, and coverage for services not covered by Medicare.
• Income Protection Insurance: This can provide a percentage of their income if they are unable to work due to illness or injury.
• Life Insurance: Especially important if they have dependants, life insurance can provide financial support to loved ones in the event of their untimely passing.
• Home and Contents Insurance: Protects their home and belongings from damage or theft.

Managing cash flow

Effective cash flow management is the foundation of financial health. Guide your children through these steps:

• Create a spending plan: Help them create a realistic plan that includes all their regular income, essential living expenses (housing, food, utilities), savings, and an allowance for discretionary spending (entertainment, travel, hobbies).
• Emergency fund: Encourage setting aside at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses to cover unexpected costs.
• Review regularly: Advise them to review and adjust their spending plan regularly to accommodate any changes in their financial situation.

Setting and achieving financial goals

Goal setting is vital for financial success. Encourage your children to:

• Define clear goals: Whether it is saving for a house deposit, a car, or a holiday, having specific, measurable, and achievable goals can make saving easier and more motivating.
• Short, medium, and long-term goals: Help them categorise their goals to plan appropriately. Short-term goals might include saving for a holiday, while long-term goals could be saving for a home or retirement.
• Regularly review goals: Encourage them to review their goals regularly, adjusting them as needed to stay on track.

Managing and reducing debt

Debt can be a significant financial burden if not managed properly. Share these strategies for effective debt management:

• Understand different types of debt: Explain the difference between good debt (e.g., student loans, home loans) and bad debt (e.g., high-interest credit card debt and car loans).
• Prioritise high-interest debt: Advise your children to focus on paying off high-interest debt first to minimise the amount paid in interest over time.
• Avoid unnecessary debt: Encourage living within their means and using credit cards responsibly.
• Consolidate debt: If they have multiple debts, consolidating them into a single loan with a lower interest rate might be beneficial.
• Seek professional advice: If debt becomes overwhelming, suggest seeking advice from one of our financial advisers.

Understanding superannuation

Superannuation (super) is a crucial part of the Australian retirement system. Superannuation is an asset that you need to take care of, so understanding the principles outlined below is vital:

• Choosing the right fund: Advise them to research and choose a super fund with low fees and good performance.
• Investment options: Educate them on the different investment options available within super funds and the importance of choosing a fund that aligns with their risk tolerance and retirement goals.
• Super contributions: Explain the importance of making additional contributions and taking advantage of employer contributions.
• Regularly review super: Encourage them to check their super statements regularly and make sure their employer is making the correct contributions.

By instilling these financial principles in your children, you are equipping them with the tools needed to build a secure and prosperous future. Financial literacy is a lifelong journey, and the sooner they start, the better prepared they will be when navigating the complexities of the financial world.

Discussing financial literacy and practical tips with your financial adviser can help you create a roadmap that supports your children’s financial future while ensuring your own financial wellbeing remains secure. If you have a friend or family member who could benefit from personalised financial advice and literacy, please reach out to us—we’re here to help.