Australian Financial Advice Hub

Save 20% deposit to avoid LMI

Lenders Mortgage Insurance can add $10,000-$30,000+ to a typical loan.

Check the First Home Guarantee scheme

Buy with as little as 5% deposit and no LMI if you qualify.

Use an offset account against your mortgage

Every dollar in offset reduces interest daily — often better than savings accounts.

Budget for stamp duty in your state

It varies hugely by state — many offer first home buyer concessions.

Salary sacrifice into super cuts your tax

Concessional contributions are taxed at just 15% instead of your marginal rate.

Claim work-from-home deductions

The ATO fixed rate method covers running costs per hour worked from home.

Hold investments 12+ months for the CGT discount

Individuals get 50% off capital gains tax on assets held over a year.

Keep receipts — deductions add up

Union fees, tools, courses and donations are all deductible if documented.

Consolidate lost super via myGov

Australians hold billions in lost super — multiple accounts mean multiple fees.

Check your super fund's fees and performance

A 1% fee difference can cost six figures over a working life.

Government co-contribution for low earners

Contribute $1,000 after-tax and receive up to $500 free from the government.

Spouse contributions earn a tax offset

Contribute to a low-income spouse's super for up to a $540 tax offset.

Avalanche method for fastest payoff

Attack the highest-rate debt first — it saves the most interest overall.

Australian credit card rates average 20%+

Balance transfer offers at 0% for 12-24 months can save thousands.

Compare the comparison rate, not the headline rate

By law, Australian loan ads must show a comparison rate that includes fees.

Watch balloon payments on car loans

A large final payment lowers repayments but costs more interest overall.

High-interest savings accounts pay 5%+

Bonus-rate accounts often require monthly deposits — set up an auto-transfer.

Low-cost index ETFs like VAS or VGS

Broad Australian and global index ETFs charge under 0.20% in fees.

Franking credits boost Australian dividends

Fully franked dividends carry a tax credit for company tax already paid.

Automate investing on payday

Dollar-cost averaging removes emotion and builds the habit.

Build 3-6 months of essential expenses

Keep it in a bonus-rate saver — don't invest your emergency money.

Use the 50/30/20 rule as a starting point

50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings and debt repayment.

Review energy and insurance annually

Loyalty tax is real — comparing providers saves the average household $500+/year.

Audit subscriptions quarterly

Most households waste $50-$100/month on services they barely use.