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.