Most of us spend our lives making our own decisions. We manage our finances, property, health, family matters and everyday affairs without giving much thought to what might happen if one day we were unable to do so. An accident, serious illness, stroke, dementia or another unexpected event can change that very quickly. That is why documents such as a Power of Attorney, Enduring Power of Attorney and Advance Care Directive can form an important part of planning for the future. Importantly, the names, rules and legal powers associated with these documents vary between Australian states and territories, so professional legal advice specific to where you live is essential.

Your role as a carer does not necessarily end if the person you’re looking after moves to an aged care home. Even after moving them into a care facility, you might still spend a lot of time there, providing care and giving them company. However, even when moving into an aged care facility may be considered the best option for your loved one, you may encounter some uncomfortable concerns. Your daily schedule and way of life will change. You might also feel guilty or become uncertain about your decision. You might also miss being with your loved one while simultaneously feeling relieved to have others share in your role as a carer. To quell your doubts and help you feel more confident in the choice you’ve made, here’s some vital information about caring for someone in an aged care home.

If you’re planning to retire, you need to consider your age including if you have reached your preservation age when you can access your super how much tax you will pay on amounts you receive if good leaver conditions apply if you are part of an Employee Share Scheme if the retirement capital gains tax concession applies, if you sell your small business. Special rules apply if you receive an employment termination payment, genuine redundancy payment or payments from an approved early retirement scheme.

The government is taking action to make Australia’s superannuation system more transparent, but individuals still need to take ownership for their super and think about how the changes impact them. Super is not the set and forget savings scheme many think it is. Here are some of the latest changes to be aware of.

The Federal Government has announced that its first tranche of measures to support individuals and households as a result of COV-ID19 received Royal Ascent on the 24th of March 2020 and is now law. Below are the key points from these measures for individuals and households