# Direct Wealth --- ## Pages - [Susan Lu](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/susan-lu/): Susan enjoys the analytical side of paraplanning and takes pride in making complex financial information understandable and actionable. - [Nicholas Coendoz](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/nicholas-coendoz/): Nick is a seasoned finance professional with 20+ years’ experience across the UK, NZ, and Australia in banking and superannuation. - [Darcy Murphy-Moore](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/darcy-murphy-moore/): Darcy is a client-focused financial planning professional with a strong academic background and a passion for helping clients. - [Joni Engelbrecht](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/joni-engelbrecht/): Joni is a finance professional, wife, and mum of three, now based in Australia after living in South Africa and New Zealand. - [Margaret Franklin & Associates](https://directwealth.com.au/margaret-franklin/): We are excited to announce that Margaret Franklin & Associates has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - [Shape Advisory](https://directwealth.com.au/shape-advisory/): We are excited to announce that Shape Advisory has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - [Find a Financial Adviser Near Me](https://directwealth.com.au/find-a-financial-adviser-near-me/): Need a financial adviser near you? Direct Wealth offers personalised advice on super, retirement & investing through offices across Australia. - [Stuart White](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/stuart-white/): Stuart White brings a wealth of leadership experience and a fresh perspective to his role as General Manager at Direct Wealth. - [Fiona Lawrence](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/fiona-lawrence/): Fiona is passionate about creating meaningful client experiences and building strong, lasting relationships in her role as Engagement Support. - [Ryan McCormac](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/ryan-mccormac/): Ryan has a passion for helping clients achieve their personal and financial goals and prides himself on presenting complex matters simply. - [Louise Austin](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/louise-austin/): Louise’s career in banking began in Central Queensland in 2013 before relocating to Townsville with her husband and two children in 2015. - [Leesa Clayton](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/leesa-clayton/): Originally from Newcastle with a background in hospitality, Leesa is no stranger to organsied chaos and has a taste for only the best coffee. - [Kellie Yates](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/kellie-yates/): Kellie is a dedicated paraplanner with 9 years of experience supporting financial advisers in delivering comprehensive strategies. - [Tianna Rasmussen](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/tianna-rasmussen/): Tianna is now a member of our Implementation Support Team, and has a passion for helping clients navigate their financial journeys. - [Nathan Bosman](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/nathan-bosman/): Nathan Bosman is a dedicated and highly regarded financial planner, with a passion for helping individuals and families achieve their goals. - [Aaron Steer](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/aaron-steer/): Aaron is an experienced Financial Services Professional who has previously been awarded the National Adviser of the Year (FPW). - [Collective Wealth Advisers](https://directwealth.com.au/collective-wealth-advisers/): We are excited to announce that Collective Wealth Advisers has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - [Stefania Wagner](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/stefania-wagner/): Stefania is a dedicated loan writer with a passion for customer service and a solid foundation in the finance industry. - [Mosaic Wealth Advisers](https://directwealth.com.au/mosaic-wealth-advisers/): We are excited to announce that Wealth & Retirement Solutions has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - [Entire Financial Solutions](https://directwealth.com.au/entire-financial-solutions/): We are excited to announce that Entire Financial Solutions has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - [Ipswich](https://directwealth.com.au/ipswich/): Need a trusted financial advisor in Ipswich? We provide advice to help you establish, grow and protect your wealth. Get started today! - [5-Star Financial Advisors in Townsville | Direct Wealth](https://directwealth.com.au/townsville/): Looking for a financial advisor in Townsville? Our experts provide tailored advice to help you grow, manage, and secure your wealth. - [Levi Hohn](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/levi-hohn-financial-adviser/): With over 17 years of experience in the financial services industry, Levi is dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals. - [Lauren Preece](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/lauren-preece/): Lauren commenced working in the finance industry in 2018 where she completed her accounting studies while working in the industry. - [Nigel Gralton](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/nigel-gralton/): Nigel, a Financial Adviser with 11 years of experience, helps clients turn financial dreams into reality. He enjoys surfing, DJing, & travel. - [Jason Rees](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/jason-rees/): Jason is a dedicated financial advisor with a passion for helping individuals from all walks of life achieve their financial goals. - [Sophie Sparke](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/sophie-sparke/): Sophie is currently pursuing a dual honours degree in Bachelor of Business and Arts, majoring in Finance and Literature. Originally from Toowoomba, she now enjoys the warm, sunny weather of the Sunshine Coast. - [Maxine Leigh](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/maxine-leigh-implementation-support/): With over 25 years of experience in financial services, Maxine brings a positive, can-do attitude to every challenge, always with a smile. - [Financial Services Guide and Adviser Profiles](https://directwealth.com.au/financial-services-guide-adviser-profiles/): The FSG and Adviser Profiles contain information about the financial advice process, as well as our qualifications and authorisations. - [Victor Larder](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/victor-larder/): Victor, our Head of Finance, has been providing tailored financial solutions since 2007. Contact Victor for all of your financing needs. - [Full Circle Wealth & Hackney Insurance](https://directwealth.com.au/full-circle-wealth-hackney-insurance/): We're excited to announce that Full Circle Wealth and Hackney Insurance have merged with Direct Wealth. - [Blog](https://directwealth.com.au/blog/): We cover everything from news to personal finance and lifestyle. Looking for improvement, entertainment or inspiration? You can find it here! - [Home](https://directwealth.com.au/): Establish, protect and grow your wealth with a trusted financial advisor and our expertly tailored financial planning services. - [Innisfail](https://directwealth.com.au/innisfail/): Trust our Innisfail financial advisors to help you establish, protect, and grow your wealth with personalised financial planning solutions. - [Caillin Chia](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/caillin-chia-implementation-support/): Caillin is a dedicated professional with a passion for providing exceptional client services. With a keen eye for detail, Caillin works alongside advisers to implement complex financial solutions that are tailored to each client's unique goals. - [Greg Bennett](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/greg-bennett/): Greg has been a financial adviser since 2018, growing his skills with ongoing education and a client-first approach along the way. Greg firmly believes that a goal without a plan is just a wish. As a result, he partners with clients to create and update tailored plans to address their needs and wishes. - [Samuel Carter](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/samuel-carter/): Samuel is an associate who is currently in the latter half of his provisional year. He has worked in numerous financial service and client-facing roles where he enjoys adding a human element into his interactions where possible. - [Daniel Westerman](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/daniel-westerman/): Daniel is one of our Associates undertaking their Professional Year (PY). He is currently studying a bachelor's degree in business, specialising in Accounting and Financial Planning, bringing a blend of academic rigor and practical experience to the table. - [Cairns](https://directwealth.com.au/cairns/): Our Cairns financial advisers are ready to help you establish, protect, and grow your wealth with personalised financial planning solutions. - [Redcliffe](https://directwealth.com.au/redcliffe/): Our Redcliffe financial advisors are ready to help you establish, protect, and grow your wealth with expert financial advice. - [Sunshine Coast](https://directwealth.com.au/sunshine-coast/): Establish, protect, and grow your wealth with trusted financial advice from our team of Sunshine Coast financial advisors. - [Brisbane](https://directwealth.com.au/brisbane/): Our trusted financial advisors in Brisbane will help you establish, protect and grow your wealth with expert financial advice. - [Start Your Journey](https://directwealth.com.au/start-your-journey/): Unlock your new financial future, retire well, and enjoy real peace of mind. Our experts are waiting to help you. - [Anne-Maree Lane](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/anne-maree-lane/): Anne-maree Lane, Implementation Support team member, plays a key role in the efficient execution of financial plans and client satisfaction. - [Daniel Stojanovski](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/daniel-stojanovski/): Daniel Stojanovski, a member of our Investment Committee, contributes strategic insights to investment decisions & portfolio management. - [Michael Fury](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/michael-fury/): Michael is the chair of the Direct Wealth investment committee, providing his expertise and oversight of portfolio management. - [Jody Fitzgerald](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/jody-fitzgerald/): Jody is a member of the Direct Wealth investment committee providing analysis and insights for our investment portfolios. - [Josh White](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/josh-white/): Meet Josh White, Associate Financial Planner at Direct Wealth. Josh specializes in creating personalized financial plans. - [Yvette Peucker](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/yvette-peucker/): Discover Yvette Peucker, our Head of Support at Direct Wealth. Yvette's leadership ensures exceptional client service and operational excellence. - [Michael Saunders](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/michael-saunders/): Michael Saunders combines roles as an Advice Coach and Paraplanner, enhancing advice quality and strategic financial planning. - [Ben Marlow](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/ben-marlow/): Ben Marlow, a Financial Adviser at Direct Wealth, is dedicated to developing personalized financial strategies for long-term client success. - [Sam Dwight](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/sam-dwight/): Sam Dwight, Financial Adviser at Direct Wealth, offers expert guidance in wealth management, helping clients achieve their financial goals. - [Erin Truscott](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/erin-truscott/): Erin has a wealth of experience in Financial Advice, having worked in the Financial Services industry for over twelve years. - [Ella Simmonds](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/ella-simmonds/): Ella Simmonds, an integral part of Client Services Support team, excels in ensuring client satisfaction & seamless service delivery. - [Kellie Browne](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/kellie-browne/): Kellie Browne, Executive Assistant at Direct Wealth, plays a pivotal role in supporting our leadership and ensuring seamless operations. - [Kirsty Wallace](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/kirsty-wallace/): Kirsty Wallace, a skilled Financial Adviser at Direct Wealth, offers insightful guidance, strategies for robust financial health & growth. - [Stuart Stevensen](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/stuart-stevensen/): Stuart Stevenson, Paraplanner at Direct Wealth, excels in detailed financial planning support, enhancing strategy development for clients. - [Blake Menere](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/blake-menere/): Blake Menere, essential in Administration Support at Direct Wealth, ensures top-tier operational efficiency and excellence in client services. - [Lyle Filer](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/lyle-filer/): Lyle Filer, a dedicated Financial Adviser at Direct Wealth, specialises in holistic financial planning advice. - [Jasmine Hastings](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/jasmine-hastings/): As a proven problem solver, Jaz thrives on adapting to the fast paced & heavily compliant environment within the financial planning industry. - [Wealth & Retirement Solutions](https://directwealth.com.au/wealth-and-retirement-solutions/): We are excited to announce that Wealth & Retirement Solutions has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - [Wealth Path Financial Services](https://directwealth.com.au/wealth-path-financial-services/): We are excited to announce that Wealth Path Financial Services has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - [Ethica Private Wealth Specialists](https://directwealth.com.au/ethica-private-wealth-specialists/): We are excited to announce that Ethica Private Wealth Specialists has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - [Joel Simmonds](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/joel-simmonds/): Meet Joel Simmonds, Partner & Head of Advice at Direct Wealth, leading in strategic financial advice and client-focused solutions. - [Sam Patterson](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/sam-patterson/): Sam Patterson, General Manager at Direct Wealth, drives operational excellence and strategic growth, ensuring superior client experiences. - [Simon Coombes](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/simon-coombes/): Simon Coombes, Director & Executive Financial Adviser, leads with innovative financial strategies and client-centric advisory excellence. - [About](https://directwealth.com.au/about-us/): Discover the story behind Direct Wealth, your trusted financial advisors. Learn about our commitment to excellence in financial planning. - [Reviews & Testimonials](https://directwealth.com.au/reviews/): Discover what our clients love about working with us! These real reviews will give you an insight into what we can do for you. - [Our Team](https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/): Meet the driving force behind Direct Wealth. Our team of seasoned financial professionals is looking forward to working with you! - [Contact](https://directwealth.com.au/contact/): Ready to secure your financial future? Contact Direct Wealth today for personalized financial planning solutions that deliver peace of mind. - [Privacy Policy](https://directwealth.com.au/privacy-policy/): Read Direct Wealth’s Privacy Policy to understand how we value and protect your personal information. Rest assured; we respect your privacy. - [Self Managed Super](https://directwealth.com.au/self-managed-super-fund-smsf/): Prepare for a comfortable retirement with Direct Wealth’s Self Managed Super Fund services. Get expert SMSF Setup advice and guidance. - [Terms and Conditions](https://directwealth.com.au/terms-and-conditions/): Review the Terms and Conditions of Direct Wealth. Understand the policies and guidelines that govern our financial services. - [Services](https://directwealth.com.au/services/): Our private wealth advisors and comprehensive financial planning services will help you build a safe, secure and comfortable future. --- ## Posts - [Property vs Shares in Australia: Which Investment Option Is Right for You?](https://directwealth.com.au/property-vs-shares-which-investment-option-is-right-for-you/): Can't decide on buying property or investing in shares? We break down the key differences so you can decide what makes the most sense. - [Is Investment Property Still Worth It?](https://directwealth.com.au/is-investment-property-still-worth-in-2025/): Wondering if investing in property is still smart in 2025? We break down the risks, returns, and provide an expert's take to help you decide. - [How Much Super Do You Need to Retire Comfortably in Australia?](https://directwealth.com.au/how-much-super-do-you-need-to-retire-comfortably-in-australia/): How much super do you need to retire in Australia? Discover what a comfortable retirement looks like and how to plan for your financial needs. - [Is a Financial Advisor Worth It? Here’s What You Should Know](https://directwealth.com.au/is-it-worth-paying-for-a-financial-advisor-australia/): Wondering if paying for a financial advisor is worth it? Learn how expert advice can help grow wealth, minimise tax, and keep you on track. - [How Do Index Funds Work? A Beginner’s Guide to Smart Investing](https://directwealth.com.au/how-do-index-funds-work-a-beginners-guide-to-smart-investing/): Curious about index funds? Learn what a market index is, how index funds track them, and why they’re a simple, effective way to invest. - [Salary Sacrificing Explained: How to Save on Tax & Achieve Your Financial Goals](https://directwealth.com.au/salary-sacrificing-explained-save-on-tax-achieve-your-goals/): So, what is salary sacrificing? Learn its benefits, how it works, and how it helps with superannuation, car leases, and more in this guide. - [What to Do with an Inheritance A Practical Guide ​](https://directwealth.com.au/what-to-do-with-inheritance-money-australia/): Not sure what to do with inheritance money in Australia? Get practical tips on saving, investing, and managing your inheritance wisely. - [How to Reduce Taxable Income as a High-Income Earner in Australia](https://directwealth.com.au/how-to-reduce-taxable-income-as-a-high-income-earner-in-australia/): Learn how to reduce taxable income in Australia with 9 proven strategies like salary sacrificing, investment deductions, and debt recycling. - [How to Turn a Six-Figure Salary into Lifelong Wealth](https://directwealth.com.au/how-to-turn-a-six-figure-salary-into-lifelong-wealth/): Learn how to turn a six-figure salary into lifelong wealth, with strategies to tackle lifestyle inflation and embrace FIRE principles. - [Buying Investment Property with an SMSF: What You Need to Know](https://directwealth.com.au/using-super-to-buy-an-investment-property/): Learn about using super to buy an investment property with an SMSF. Explore the pros, cons, and key considerations for this strategy. - [Can I Use My Super to Buy a House? Your Guide to Superannuation & Property](https://directwealth.com.au/can-i-use-my-super-to-buy-a-house/): Curious about using your super to buy a house? Learn how the First Home Super Saver Scheme and Self-Managed Super Funds can help. - [Death and Taxes: Navigating Estate Taxes in Australia](https://directwealth.com.au/death-and-taxes-navigating-estate-taxes-in-australia/): Understand estate taxes and capital gains on deceased estates in Australia. Learn how to protect your assets with smart estate planning. - [The Path to Early Retirement: Balancing Financial Independence and Lifestyle](https://directwealth.com.au/the-path-to-early-retirement-balancing-financial-independence-and-lifestyle/): Ready to retire? Learn how to achieve early retirement in Australia with practical steps, financial strategies, and benefits in this guide. - [Smart Retirement Investments: Choosing the Right Options](https://directwealth.com.au/smart-retirement-investments-choosing-the-right-options-for-your-future/): Discover smart retirement investment strategies to help secure your future. Explore options like annuities, shares, property, and more. - [Downsizing for Retirement: A Guide to the Downsizer Contribution](https://directwealth.com.au/downsizing-for-retirement-a-guide-to-the-downsizer-contribution/): We explain how downsizing for retirement and the downsizer contribution can boost your super and help you save on taxes. - [Pension Income in Retirement: The Age Pension Assets and Income Tests](https://directwealth.com.au/understanding-the-age-pension-assets-and-income-tests-in-australia/): Learn how the age pension income and assets tests work in Australia, including eligibility, limits, and tips to maximise your benefits. - [Understanding Unit Trusts in Australia: Benefits, Setup, and Key Differences](https://directwealth.com.au/understanding-unit-trusts-in-australia-benefits-setup-and-key-differences/): Learn about unit trusts in Australia, their benefits, structure, and key differences Get expert insights on when to use a unit trust. - [Understanding Discretionary Trusts: What You Need to Know](https://directwealth.com.au/understanding-discretionary-trusts-what-you-need-to-know/): Learn how discretionary trusts work in Australia, their benefits for asset protection and tax planning, and when to use one. - [What Is a Family Trust, and Is It Right for You?](https://directwealth.com.au/understanding-family-trusts-are-they-the-right-choice/): Discover how a family trust protects your wealth while offering asset protection and tax benefits for current and future generations. - [Debt Recycling in Australia: A Simple Guide](https://directwealth.com.au/debt-recycling-in-australia-a-simple-guide/): Learn how debt recycling in Australia can help you save on tax by turning your home loan into tax-deductible debt that can be used to invest. - [Should You Invest in a Managed Investment Trust? Weighing the Pros and Cons](https://directwealth.com.au/should-you-invest-in-a-managed-investment-trust/): Considering investing in a Managed Investment Trust? Learn what an MIT is, how it works, and factors to consider before making a decision. - [How to Create Your Own Investment Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide](https://directwealth.com.au/how-to-create-your-own-investment-plan-a-step-by-step-guide/): Ready to take control of your financial future? A solid investment plan is key. We share how you can create a personalised investment plan. - [How to Retire Richer: Use These 6 Wealth-Building Strategies](https://directwealth.com.au/how-to-retire-richer/): Learn how to retire richer with 6 wealth-building strategies. Grow your wealth, avoid lifestyle creep, & take control of your financial future - [The Biggest Retirement Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them](https://directwealth.com.au/the-biggest-retirement-planning-mistakes/): Discover the 6 biggest retirement planning mistakes and learn how to avoid them for a financially safe, secure and stress-free retirement. - [Planning for Retirement: Health, Happiness and Financial Security​](https://directwealth.com.au/planning-for-retirement-health-happiness-and-financial-security/): Planning for retirement is exciting but challenging. A new report highlights physical health and financial security as key to retiree happiness. Learn how to navigate rising living costs and financial uncertainties, and why working with a qualified financial advisor is the key to a secure retirement. - [Understanding Financial Advisor Fees: How Much Does a Financial Advisor Cost?](https://directwealth.com.au/understanding-financial-advisor-fees-how-much-does-a-financial-advisor-cost/): So, how much does a financial advisor cost? We explain financial advisor fees, how to choose the right service and get the best results. - [Proven Wealth Creation Strategies: A Beginner's Guide](https://directwealth.com.au/beginners-guide-to-wealth-creation/): Get started with wealth creation: Learn about proven wealth creation strategies that you can use to build your wealth creation plan. - [Improve Your Financial Well-being in Just 8 Easy Steps](https://directwealth.com.au/financial-health-check/): Give yourself a financial health check! From smart budgeting to savvy saving, you can use these tips to improve your financial wellbeing. --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages > Susan enjoys the analytical side of paraplanning and takes pride in making complex financial information understandable and actionable. - Published: 2025-07-02 - Modified: 2025-07-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/susan-lu/ Susan Lu Paraplanner Susan has been a paraplanner since 2008 after graduating in Master of Financial Planning. Over time, she has supported advisers to deliver comprehensive financial strategies and helped clients achieve their long- term goals. Susan enjoys the analytical side of the role and takes pride in making complex financial information understandable and actionable. Besides work, Susan likes travelling to different countries with her family and experiencing the vibrant culture and history of cities. Contact Susan --- > Nick is a seasoned finance professional with 20+ years’ experience across the UK, NZ, and Australia in banking and superannuation. - Published: 2025-06-30 - Modified: 2025-06-30 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/nicholas-coendoz/ Nicholas Coendoz Implementation Support Nick started his finance journey over 20 years ago in the UK at a Mortgage packager in Kent. Leaving to backpack SE Asia he has worked for blue chip banks in Business Banking and Superannuation in Auckland, Melbourne and Brisbane. Outside his day job Nick is a qualified SCUBA Instructor, has a home music studio and spends the rest of his time chasing his Dog, Banjo, around trying to keep him out of trouble. Contact Nick --- > Darcy is a client-focused financial planning professional with a strong academic background and a passion for helping clients. - Published: 2025-06-30 - Modified: 2025-06-30 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/darcy-murphy-moore/ Darcy Murphy-Moore Implementation Support Darcy is a dedicated and client-focused professional with a Bachelor of Business majoring in Financial Planning. His academic background has provided him with a solid understanding of financial principles and investment strategies when implementing advice that the advisers provide to their clients. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, with his favourite hike being Kondalilla Falls in Montville. Contact Darcy --- > Joni is a finance professional, wife, and mum of three, now based in Australia after living in South Africa and New Zealand. - Published: 2025-06-23 - Modified: 2025-06-23 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/joni-engelbrecht/ Joni Engelbrecht Client Services Support Joni was born and raised in South Africa before moving to New Zealand, where she spent eight and a half years building a new life with her family. As a dedicated wife and mother of three—two daughters and a son—she has focused on balancing family life while gaining valuable experience working with two financial advisers in the financial services industry. While she has learned a great deal, she knows there’s still so much more to learn, and she’s excited to continue growing both personally and professionally since relocating to Australia. Contact Joni --- > We are excited to announce that Margaret Franklin & Associates has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - Published: 2025-06-23 - Modified: 2025-06-23 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/margaret-franklin/ Margaret Franklin & Associates has merged with Direct Wealth We’re pleased to share that Margaret Franklin & Associates has joined forces with Direct Wealth, bringing you even greater expertise, resources, and opportunities to help you achieve your financial goals. What This Means for You: Same trusted advice, even more support. Your financial adviser and services remain the same, with the added backing of Direct Wealth’s broader team and expertise to support your long-term success. Continued personalised service. You’ll still receive the same tailored financial advice you trust, with no disruption to your ongoing relationship. More tools, better insights. With access to enhanced financial strategies and industry-leading resources, we’re better equipped than ever to help you navigate your financial future with confidence. This merger is about bringing you more—more expertise, more resources, and more opportunities to secure your financial future. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your financial plan, we’re here to help. Contact Us --- > We are excited to announce that Shape Advisory has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - Published: 2025-06-23 - Modified: 2025-06-23 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/shape-advisory/ Shape Advisory has merged with Direct Wealth We’re pleased to share that Shape Advisory has joined forces with Direct Wealth, bringing you even greater expertise, resources, and opportunities to help you achieve your financial goals. What This Means for You: Same trusted advice, even more support. Your financial adviser and services remain the same, with the added backing of Direct Wealth’s broader team and expertise to support your long-term success. Continued personalised service. You’ll still receive the same tailored financial advice you trust, with no disruption to your ongoing relationship. More tools, better insights. With access to enhanced financial strategies and industry-leading resources, we’re better equipped than ever to help you navigate your financial future with confidence. This is about bringing you more—more expertise, more resources, and more opportunities to secure your financial future. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your financial plan, we’re here to help. Contact Us --- > Need a financial adviser near you? Direct Wealth offers personalised advice on super, retirement & investing through offices across Australia. - Published: 2025-06-04 - Modified: 2025-06-04 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/find-a-financial-adviser-near-me/ Find a Financial Adviser Near You Looking for trusted financial advice close to home? Direct Wealth has experienced advisers across Queensland and Australia, ready to help you with retirement planning, superannuation, investments and more — wherever you are. Financial Advisor Brisbane Our Brisbane office is located in the heart of Paddington, just minutes from the CBD. Our local advisers help clients across the city with personalised superannuation, investment and retirement strategies. See our financial planner in Brisbane services → Financial Advisor Cairns Based in Cairns North, our team supports locals with everything from retirement planning to building long-term investment strategies. Our Cairns financial advisers understand the region — and your goals. See our Cairns financial advice services → Financial Advisor Innisfail Our Innisfail financial advisers understand the needs of Far North Queensland locals — from super and insurance to long-term wealth strategies. We're here to help you plan for whatever comes next. Learn more about our financial advisors in Innisfail → Financial Advisor Ipswich Conveniently located in the heart of Ipswich, our team provides personalised guidance on superannuation, retirement, and more. We're proud to support clients across Greater Brisbane’s west. Chat to one of our Ipswich financial advisors → Financial Advisor Redcliffe Located just a short walk from the waterfront, our Redcliffe team offers tailored advice for locals across the peninsula. Whether you're planning retirement or managing investments, we're here to help. Speak to a Redcliffe financial adviser → Financial Advisor Sunshine Coast Our Sunshine Coast office, based in Maroochydore, supports clients from across the region with clear, personalised financial advice. We’ll help you make confident decisions about your future. Work with our trusted Sunshine Coast financial advisors → Financial Advisor Townsville From retirement planning to investment advice, our Townsville office is here to support locals with practical, forward-looking strategies. Let’s build a plan that works for your life. See our Townsville financial advisers → --- > Stuart White brings a wealth of leadership experience and a fresh perspective to his role as General Manager at Direct Wealth. - Published: 2025-05-01 - Modified: 2025-05-01 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/stuart-white/ Stuart White General Manager Stuart White brings a wealth of leadership experience and a fresh perspective to his role as General Manager at Direct Wealth. With a career spanning over two decades in financial services, Stuart has held senior executive positions across major organisations , including MetLife, AIA and ING Australia where he oversaw strategy, operations, and client engagement. At Direct Wealth, Stuart is passionate about creating an environment where both clients and the team can thrive. He combines a strategic mindset with a hands-on leadership style, ensuring that the firm continues to deliver personalised advice and service that truly makes a difference in clients' lives. Away from work, Stuart is all about family and community. He enjoys coaching his sons’ basketball team, spending time at the local dog park with Walter White, the family's much-loved bordoodle, and playing cards on the deck at home with his wife Melle and their two boys. Stuart’s down-to-earth nature, combined with his wealth of experience, makes him a valued member of the Direct Wealth leadership team. Contact Stuart --- > Fiona is passionate about creating meaningful client experiences and building strong, lasting relationships in her role as Engagement Support. - Published: 2025-05-01 - Modified: 2025-05-01 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/fiona-lawrence/ Fiona Lawrence Engagement Support As an Engagement Support professional at Direct Wealth, Fiona is passionate about creating meaningful client experiences and building strong, lasting relationships. With a focus on proactive communication and seamless support, Fiona works closely with our advisors and clients to ensure every interaction is smooth, informed, and personalised. Fiona's role is all about being the connection point—whether it’s coordinating onboarding processes, assisting with client queries, or supporting our advisory team with operational excellence. Fiona thrives in fast-paced environments and am committed to delivering service that reflects the integrity and care Direct Wealth is known for. Outside the office, Fiona brings that same energy to personal development and staying up to date with the latest in client engagement strategies and financial service trends. Fiona's goal is to make every client feel valued and every interaction count. Contact Fiona --- > Ryan has a passion for helping clients achieve their personal and financial goals and prides himself on presenting complex matters simply. - Published: 2025-04-15 - Modified: 2025-04-15 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/ryan-mccormac/ Ryan McCormac Financial Adviser Ryan started his career as a financial adviser in 2008 working with CBA for 8 years, before holding a Senior Financial Planning position with Collective Wealth Advisers prior to joining Direct Wealth. He has a passion for helping clients achieve their personal and financial goals and prides himself on presenting complex matters simply. Ryan has significant experience delivering holistic advice in the areas of Superannuation, Retirement Planning and Investments, but has a particular interest in helping clients prepare for life after work as well as assisting families navigate the Aged Care system for their loved ones. Outside of his professional life, Ryan enjoys spending time with his three children and keeps busy running the finances for his local football club. Contact Ryan --- > Louise’s career in banking began in Central Queensland in 2013 before relocating to Townsville with her husband and two children in 2015. - Published: 2025-04-02 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/louise-austin/ Louise Austin Implementation Support Louise's career in banking began in Central Queensland in 2013 before relocating to Townsville with her husband and two children in 2015. Continuing in the banking sector until 2017, a passion for helping clients achieve their financial goals led to a transition into financial advice, where I have been working ever since. Outside of work, life is always busy, keeping up with two energetic, social and sporty teens. Contact Louise --- > Originally from Newcastle with a background in hospitality, Leesa is no stranger to organsied chaos and has a taste for only the best coffee. - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/leesa-clayton/ Leesa Clayton Implementation Support Originally from Newcastle with a background in hospitality as a wedding and functions coordinator, Leesa is no stranger to organised chaos and has a taste for only the best coffee. Leesa started within financial planning in 2019 before moving to Queensland for sunnier days. An energetic, dedicated support team member who ensures clients are informed and comfortable during their tailored Advice implementation. Leesa is always looking for her next overseas adventure, and enjoys the odd road trip back to Newcastle and spending time at the beach with her beloved Miniature Dachshunds. Contact Leesa --- > Kellie is a dedicated paraplanner with 9 years of experience supporting financial advisers in delivering comprehensive strategies. - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/kellie-yates/ Kellie Yates Paraplanner Kellie is a dedicated paraplanner with 9 years of experience supporting financial advisers in delivering comprehensive, client-focused financial strategies. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for problem-solving, Kellie ensures that all financial plans are thoroughly evaluated and aligned with clients' needs to achieve their long-term goals. Away from work Kellie likes to stay active and can usually be found hiking in the wilderness or working hard in the gym to become stronger through powerlifting. Contact Kellie --- > Tianna is now a member of our Implementation Support Team, and has a passion for helping clients navigate their financial journeys. - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/tianna-rasmussen/ Tianna Rasmussen Implementation Support Tianna first entered the financial planning scene in 2021 as a trainee and successfully completed her Certificate III in Business in 2022. Tianna quickly discovered her passion for helping clients navigate their financial journeys and is now a member of our Implementation Support Team. Tianna enjoys collaborating closely with financial advisers to seamlessly implement the tailored financial strategies and advice provided to clients. Tianna takes great pride in supporting clients throughout the implementation process, ensuring they feel informed, confident, and well-supported every step of the way. With her approachable and professional demeanor, she’s always available to answer any questions, making the process as smooth possible for clients. Outside of work Tianna enjoys exploring the culinary scene with her friends and is always eager to discover new and exciting restaurants. Tianna also enjoys spending time at the beach and exploring new landscapes with her dog. Contact Tianna --- > Nathan Bosman is a dedicated and highly regarded financial planner, with a passion for helping individuals and families achieve their goals. - Published: 2025-03-19 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/nathan-bosman/ Nathan Bosman Financial Adviser Nathan Bosman is a dedicated and highly regarded financial planner. Nathan has a passion for helping individuals and families achieve their financial goals. With over 10 years of experience in the financial services industry, Nathan has built a reputation for providing tailored, client-focused advice that empowers his clients to make informed decisions about their financial future. Nathan specialises in comprehensive financial planning, including retirement planning, wealth accumulation, investment strategies, superannuation, insurance, and estate planning. His approach is rooted in understanding each client’s unique circumstances, values, and aspirations, ensuring that every financial plan is personalised and aligned with their long-term objectives. As a trusted advisor, Nathan is committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. Nathan has completed his Diploma of Financial Planning and is currently studying his Graduate Diploma and Master of Financial Planning. Outside of his professional life, Nathan enjoys spending time with his family both in Australia and abroad. Nathan’s client-centric approach, combined with his expertise and genuine care for his clients’ success, makes him a standout financial planner. Whether you’re planning for retirement, growing your wealth, or protecting your family’s future, Nathan is committed to guiding you every step of the way. Contact Nathan --- > Aaron is an experienced Financial Services Professional who has previously been awarded the National Adviser of the Year (FPW). - Published: 2025-03-19 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/aaron-steer/ Aaron Steer Financial Adviser Aaron is an experienced Financial Services Professional who has previously been awarded the National Adviser of the Year (FPW) and admitted to the highly regarded Most Trusted Adviser register, celebrating financial planners who have shown excellence in the profession. Aside from establishing and running a successful QLD based financial planning business, Aaron has been involved in a number of professional bodies and advisory councils. He has a broad knowledge of the financial services profession and business structures that support leading financial planning firms, ranging from implementing strategic growth processes, to helping businesses and their owners successfully merge or transition for lifestyle purposes. Away from work, Aaron is struggling to lower his golf handicap and still enjoys being one of the 'oldest guys' at whatever live music gig is happening around town. He is also a tragically devoted Newcastle Knights supporter and can barely remember their last NRL premiership win! Contact Aaron --- > We are excited to announce that Collective Wealth Advisers has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - Published: 2025-03-04 - Modified: 2025-06-30 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/collective-wealth-advisers/ Collective Wealth Advisers has merged with Direct Wealth We’re pleased to share that Collective Wealth Advisers (Statewide Wealth Pty Ltd) has joined forces with Direct Wealth, bringing you even greater expertise, resources, and opportunities to help you achieve your financial goals. What This Means for You: Same trusted advice, even more support. Your financial adviser and services remain the same, with the added backing of Direct Wealth’s broader team and expertise to support your long-term success. Continued personalised service. You’ll still receive the same tailored financial advice you trust, with no disruption to your ongoing relationship. More tools, better insights. With access to enhanced financial strategies and industry-leading resources, we’re better equipped than ever to help you navigate your financial future with confidence. A future-focused transition. While your advice will continue under Statewide Financial Group’s CAR, trading as Collective Wealth Advisers, we’re working towards a seamless transition where appropriate—ensuring you get the best possible financial guidance every step of the way. This merger is about bringing you more—more expertise, more resources, and more opportunities to secure your financial future. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your financial plan, we’re here to help. Contact Us --- > Stefania is a dedicated loan writer with a passion for customer service and a solid foundation in the finance industry. - Published: 2025-02-27 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/stefania-wagner/ Stefania Wagner Loans Officer Stef is a dedicated loan writer with a passion for customer service and a solid foundation in the finance industry. With four years of experience, including three years at a major lender, she has honed her skills in understanding complex financial products and client needs. Stef's expertise is further enhanced by her Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking, which equips her with the essential knowledge to navigate the intricacies of loan applications and financial regulations. In her role, Stef excels at evaluating and processing credit applications efficiently, always striving to identify and meet the unique financial needs of her clients. Her background in banking has given her a comprehensive understanding of the industry, allowing her to offer tailored solutions and build productive relationships with her customers. Outside of her professional life, Stef values quality time with her family on weekends. She enjoys the simple pleasures of hosting barbecues and spending relaxing days at the beach. This balance between her career and personal life contributes to her approachable demeanour and ability to connect with clients on a personal level, making the often-stressful process of obtaining a loan more comfortable and accessible for everyone she assists. Contact Stefania --- > We are excited to announce that Wealth & Retirement Solutions has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - Published: 2025-02-10 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/mosaic-wealth-advisers/ Mosaic Wealth Advisers has merged with Direct Wealth We are excited to announce that Mosaic Wealth Advisers has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. As part of this transition, we have decided to consolidate our services under the Direct Wealth brand. Effective immediately, all Mosaic Wealth Advisers customers will be seamlessly transitioned to Direct Wealth, where you will continue to receive the same exceptional level of personalised care and expertise that you have come to expect. Our dedicated team at Direct Wealth is committed to providing you with comprehensive financial solutions and guiding you towards a prosperous future. We are excited about this opportunity to serve you better and look forward to continuing our partnership with you as part of the Direct Wealth family. Contact Us --- > We are excited to announce that Entire Financial Solutions has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - Published: 2025-02-10 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/entire-financial-solutions/ Entire Financial Solutions has merged with Direct Wealth We are excited to announce that Entire Financial Solutions has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. As part of this transition, we have decided to consolidate our services under the Direct Wealth brand. Effective immediately, all Entire Financial Solutions customers will be seamlessly transitioned to Direct Wealth, where you will continue to receive the same exceptional level of personalised care and expertise that you have come to expect. Our dedicated team at Direct Wealth is committed to providing you with comprehensive financial solutions and guiding you towards a prosperous future. We are excited about this opportunity to serve you better and look forward to continuing our partnership with you as part of the Direct Wealth family. Contact Us --- > Need a trusted financial advisor in Ipswich? We provide advice to help you establish, grow and protect your wealth. Get started today! - Published: 2025-02-05 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/ipswich/ 5 Over 211 Reviews Establish, Protect & Grow Your Wealth with a Trusted Financial Advisor in Ipswich Trusted financial advisors in Ipswich, helping you build wealth and plan for the future. LEARN MORE START NOW As seen on: 5-Star Financial Advice in Ipswich You’ve found your trusted financial advisor in Ipswich, here to provide expert financial guidance tailored to your goals. Our personalised financial solutions help you grow and protect your wealth for a secure future. Read on to learn more about how our Ipswich financial advisors can support your financial journey. Award-Winning Service, Exceptional Results We're proud to say that we've been recognised for being amongst the best in Australia. What Can a Ipswich Financial Advisor Do for You? A financial advisor plays a crucial role in securing and growing your wealth, helping you make confident financial decisions. Financial planning is about more than just setting goals—it’s about having the right guidance to navigate life’s financial challenges. Our Ipswich financial advisors provide expert advice to help you manage your money wisely and plan for the future. Whether you're looking to build wealth, protect your assets, or prepare for retirement, a financial advisor in Ipswich can give you the support and clarity you need to move forward with confidence. Our Ipswich Financial Advisor Services Help You Secure and Grow Your Wealth From everyday financial decisions to smart investment strategies, superannuation advice, estate planning, and tax efficiency, we’ve got you covered. Our financial advisors in Ipswich tailor their advice to your unique situation, using proactive strategies to help you achieve the best possible financial outcomes. Whether you're planning for the future or need expert guidance right now, our Ipswich financial advisors are here to support you every step of the way. We Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals Helping you get to where you want to be is what we do best. In this video, senior financial advisor, Erin, shares how we help our clients succeed. https://vimeo. com/1033333416 Ready to start your journey to financial success? Take the first step and get in touch. START NOW Results You Can Trust At Direct Wealth, our numbers tell the story of trust, experience, and happy clients. With years of dedicated service and countless success stories, we’ve built a reputation for delivering exceptional results. Years of outstanding service 0 Happy & successful clients 0 + Years of collective experience 0 Funds under management $ 0 B+ Why Choose Us? Our goal is to make managing your finances straightforward and effective, so you can look forward to a future that’s secure, comfortable, and aligned with your dreams. We Make Things Easy Your new team of financial experts will help you find the best way forward. Instead of trying to figure things out on your own, you get direct access to expert knowledge, insights and support, which are the key ingredients for success. Whatever the challenge, our financial advisors have the knowledge needed to help you create a robust financial future. Personalised Advice Everyone's financial is... --- > Looking for a financial advisor in Townsville? Our experts provide tailored advice to help you grow, manage, and secure your wealth. - Published: 2025-01-10 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/townsville/ 5 Over 211 Reviews Establish, Protect & Grow Your Wealth with Expert Financial Advisors in Townsville Achieve the best financial outcomes with the trusted guidance of Townsville’s top-rated financial advisors. LEARN MORE START NOW As seen on: 5-Star Financial Advice in Townsville Welcome, and thanks for stopping by! You've found your new team of trusted Townsville financial advisors, dedicated to providing tailored solutions to your financial needs. Our range of financial services in Townsville are designed to ensure your financial health and security, both now and in the future. Whether you're planning for retirement, managing investments, or seeking advice to grow your wealth, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Keep reading to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals and why we're the most trusted name in Townsville. Award-Winning Service, Exceptional Results We're proud to say that we've been recognised for being amongst the very best in Australia. Simplify Your Finances We're here to make managing your finances easy. Our financial advisors provide the expert support you need to handle your financial future with confidence and clarity. Our Townsville financial advisors are here to simplify the often-overwhelming financial landscape. By tailoring advice to your unique situation, they’ll help you navigate everything from growing your wealth to managing life’s unexpected twists with confidence. Expert Guidance to Manage and Grow Your Wealth Our experienced advisors offer tailored solutions to help you navigate every aspect of your financial journey. From the simple to the complex, our experts provide personalised advice for all your financial needs. Let us help you cut through the noise of the financial world. With clear, actionable advice, we’ll guide you toward a future where your wealth grows, and you feel secure. START NOW We Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals Helping you get to where you want to be is what we do best. In this video, senior financial advisor, Erin, shares how we help our clients succeed. https://vimeo. com/1033333416 Ready to start your journey to financial success? Take the first step and get in touch. START NOW Results You Can Trust At Direct Wealth, our numbers tell the story of trust, experience, and happy clients. With years of dedicated service and countless success stories, we’ve built a reputation for delivering exceptional results. Years of outstanding service 0 Happy & successful clients 0 + Years of collective experience 0 Funds under management $ 0 B+ Why We're the Right Choice for Your Financial Journey Our goal is to make managing your finances straightforward and effective, so you can look forward to a future that’s secure, comfortable, and aligned with your dreams. We Make Things Easy Your trusted Townsville financial advisors are here to help you find the clearest path to success. Instead of navigating the complexities of financial planning on your own, our team provides direct access to expert guidance, tools, and support, ensuring your financial goals are achievable and stress-free. Whatever the challenge, we’re here to help you create a... --- > With over 17 years of experience in the financial services industry, Levi is dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals. - Published: 2025-01-09 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/levi-hohn-financial-adviser/ Financial Adviser With over 17 years of experience in the financial services industry, Levi is a seasoned financial advisor dedicated to helping individuals achieve their financial goals. Specializing in comprehensive wealth management, retirement planning, and investment strategy, Levi has built a reputation for providing tailored financial solutions that align with clients’ unique objectives and risk profiles. Known for a holistic approach to financial management, he empowers clients to make informed decisions, creating sustainable financial plans that evolve with life changes and market conditions. Passionate about fostering long-term relationships, he is dedicated to providing insightful advice and helping clients navigate the complexities of personal finance with confidence. Levi holds relevant qualifications, including Diploma of Financial Planning (DFP), Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning (ADFP), Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning (GradDipFP), SMSF Specialist course, Certified Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®) and is a qualified Justice of the Peace (JP Qual). Outside of the office, Levi his wife and 2 children, are usually busy running around to sporting events or spending time with friends and family. Levi is a keen Mountain Biker and Cowboys Fan and spends his spare time on the trails or watching the footy. Contact Levi --- > Lauren commenced working in the finance industry in 2018 where she completed her accounting studies while working in the industry. - Published: 2024-12-18 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/lauren-preece/ Lauren Preece Client Services Officer Lauren commenced working in the finance industry in 2018 where she completed her accounting studies whilst under employment of a tax accounting firm. She strives to develop new skills and knowledge, and enjoys learning the aspects and operations of the financial planning industry. Lauren has lived most of her life in Far North Queensland and enjoys travelling when she can. Outside of work Lauren loves to spend time with her young children and enjoys camping, playing at games arcades and socialising with family and friends Contact Lauren --- > Nigel, a Financial Adviser with 11 years of experience, helps clients turn financial dreams into reality. He enjoys surfing, DJing, & travel. - Published: 2024-11-04 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/nigel-gralton/ Nigel Gralton Financial Adviser Nigel has been a part of the Financial Services sector for 11 years, his career started after completing a Financial Planning Bachelors degree at Griffith University. After over 10 years at the same Financial Planning Firm, Nigel is now looking for his next challenge joining the thriving team at Direct Wealth as a Financial Adviser. Nigel is passionate about helping people with their finances. Conceptually Nigel views Financial Planning like writing a fictional story of your ideal life, once it's written it's up to you how much becomes non-fiction. Nigel's mission is to provide the means and motivation to bring those simple words on a page to life. Outside of work, Nigel enjoys surfing, DJing and travelling whenever possible. Contact Nigel --- > Jason is a dedicated financial advisor with a passion for helping individuals from all walks of life achieve their financial goals. - Published: 2024-10-16 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/jason-rees/ Jason Rees Financial Adviser Jason is a dedicated financial advisor with a passion for helping individuals from all walks of life achieve their financial goals. He finds great fulfilment in guiding his clients through financial challenges and providing them with the knowledge and confidence to build a secure and prosperous future. Jason believes in creating personalised financial strategies that are tailored to each client's unique circumstances. His goal is to simplify the complexities of financial planning, ensuring that his clients feel supported every step of the way. He understands that financial decisions can feel overwhelming, and he is committed to making the process clear and approachable. Jason takes a proactive approach, helping his clients make informed decisions and set realistic goals that align with their long-term vision. With his strong educational background and love for numbers, Jason works to remove the stress from financial management, allowing his clients to focus on enjoying life while feeling secure about their financial future. Above all, Jason values trust and integrity in his work. Seeing his clients gain financial confidence and reach their goals is what motivates him the most. Jason is ready to help you navigate your financial journey and create a future of security and peace of mind. Contact Jason --- > Sophie is currently pursuing a dual honours degree in Bachelor of Business and Arts, majoring in Finance and Literature. Originally from Toowoomba, she now enjoys the warm, sunny weather of the Sunshine Coast. - Published: 2024-10-01 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/sophie-sparke/ Sophie Sparke Client Services Officer Sophie is currently pursuing a dual honours degree in Bachelor of Business and Arts, majoring in Finance and Literature. Originally from Toowoomba, she now enjoys the warm, sunny weather of the Sunshine Coast. On weekends, Sophie can often be found exploring new cafes or relaxing at the beach. A passionate women’s football fan, she never misses an Arsenal match. We’re proud to have Sophie on the Direct Wealth team, where her enthusiasm and dedication shine through in her work. Contact Sophie --- > With over 25 years of experience in financial services, Maxine brings a positive, can-do attitude to every challenge, always with a smile. - Published: 2024-10-01 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/maxine-leigh-implementation-support/ Maxine Leigh Senior Implementation Support With over 25 years of experience in financial services, Maxine brings a positive, can-do attitude to every challenge, always with a smile. Originally from the UK, Maxine made the exciting decision to move to Singapore before eventually settling in Brisbane with her husband, 2 teenage boys and my dog. In her free time, Maxine loves to explore all that beautiful Australia has to offer, spending quality time with family and friends along the way. She is passionate about balancing work with life's greatest joys and is always ready for new adventures. Contact Maxine --- > The FSG and Adviser Profiles contain information about the financial advice process, as well as our qualifications and authorisations. - Published: 2024-08-09 - Modified: 2025-06-23 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/financial-services-guide-adviser-profiles/ Financial Services Guide This Financial Services Guide (FSG) explains the financial services and advice provided by Alliance Wealth and your Financial Adviser (Adviser), who is an authorised representative of Alliance Wealth. The FSG provides information on what to expect during the financial advice process including the types of documents you are likely to receive, how we manage privacy, related parties and potential conflicts of interests, and how we manage complaints. This FSG should be read in conjunction with the Adviser Profile. Please take the time to review both the FSG and the Adviser Profile before engaging our services. Read Our FSG Here Adviser Profiles The Adviser Profile contains important information about your Adviser including their relevant authorised representative number, qualifications, experience, areas of authorisation, how they get paid and fees that you may be charged. Direct Wealth Pty Ltd Aaron Steer Ben Marlow Erin Truscott Greg Bennett Jason Rees Joel Simmonds Joshua White Kirsty Wallace Levi Hohn Lyle Filer Nathan Bosman Nigel Gralton Ross Caruso Ryan McCormac Sam Dwight Scott Oudendyk Slor Simon Coombes Statewide Wealth Pty Ltd Aaron Steer Nathan Bosman Ryan McCormac Need Help? If there is anything we can help with, or you would like more information, please get in touch using our Contact page. Contact Us --- > Victor, our Head of Finance, has been providing tailored financial solutions since 2007. Contact Victor for all of your financing needs. - Published: 2024-08-05 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/victor-larder/ Victor Larder Head of finance Since 2007, Victor has been dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for his clients. With extensive experience in various industries, he specialises in in both commercial and residential lending and offers services in property and cash flow lending, residential home and investment lending, and equipment and vehicle finance. Victor’s genuine passion and dedication distinguish him in the field. He meets clients’ needs efficiently, ensuring their satisfaction every step of the way. After managing clients' banking needs at a major bank since 2007, and helping hundreds of clients as a finance broker since 2017, Victor joined Direct Wealth to offer more tailored finance solutions. He leverages a wide array of lenders to craft personalised strategies for each client. With access to over 25 lending institutions, Victor and his team at Direct Wealth provide solutions for:RefinancingHome and InvestmentProperty LoansResidential/CommercialProperty DevelopmentCommercial PropertyPurchaseBusiness Cash Flow SolutionsEquipment Finance, includingMotor VehicleSelf-Managed Super Funds (SMSF)Wealth ManagementInsuranceVictor's commitment and expertise make him the ideal partner for navigating the complexities of finance and achieving your goals efficiently. Contact Victor --- > We're excited to announce that Full Circle Wealth and Hackney Insurance have merged with Direct Wealth. - Published: 2024-07-18 - Modified: 2024-07-23 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/full-circle-wealth-hackney-insurance/ Full Circle Wealth and Hackney Insurance Have Merged with Direct Wealth We are excited to announce that Full Circle Wealth and Hackney Insurance have joined forces with Direct Wealth.  As part of this transition, we have decided to consolidate our services under the Direct Wealth brand.  Effective immediately, all Full Circle Wealth and Hackney Insurance customers will be seamlessly transitioned to Direct Wealth, where you will continue to receive the same exceptional level of personalised care and expertise that you have come to expect. About Us Direct Wealth is renowned for its comprehensive financial solutions and dedicated customer service. With years of experience in the financial advisory sector, we specialise in estate planning, investment management, retirement planning, and insurance services. Our mission is to help you achieve financial security and peace of mind. Why This Merger is Beneficial for You By merging with Direct Wealth, Full Circle Wealth and Hackney Insurance clients will benefit from an expanded range of services, greater resources, and enhanced expertise. Our combined strengths will allow us to offer even more tailored and innovative solutions to meet your financial needs and exceed your expectations. What's Next? We will be reaching out to introduce ourselves and ensure a smooth transition. Our priority is to understand your unique financial goals and continue providing the high level of service you are accustomed to. We look forward to a long and successful partnership with you as part of the Direct Wealth family. In the meantime, if you need anything or have any questions, please reach out. Contact Us --- > We cover everything from news to personal finance and lifestyle. Looking for improvement, entertainment or inspiration? You can find it here! - Published: 2024-06-17 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/blog/ Our Blog Welcome to the Direct Wealth Blog – your trusted resource for expert insights on financial planning, wealth creation, retirement strategies, and much more. Whether you're planning for your future, managing investments, or wanting to learn more about how professional advice can make a difference, we've got you covered. Explore our articles and empower yourself to make informed financial decisions. --- > Establish, protect and grow your wealth with a trusted financial advisor and our expertly tailored financial planning services. - Published: 2024-06-13 - Modified: 2025-06-05 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/ 5 Over 211 Reviews Establish, Protect & Grow Your Wealth with Australia's #1 Financial Advisors Get the trusted guidance, genuine care & ongoing support you need to successfully manage your finances. LEARN MORE START NOW As seen on: 5-Star Financial Planners Welcome! And thanks for stopping by. You've found your new team of financial advisors, and we're here to give you valuable financial advice. Our solutions for life and wealth are designed to help you live well, both now and in the future. Read on to learn a little bit about us, what we can do for you, and how we can help you get to where you want to be. Award-Winning Service, Exceptional Results We're proud to say that we've been recognised for being amongst the best in Australia. Finding Certainty We believe that true wealth goes beyond monetary gains; it encompasses a balanced life. Our goal is to provide you with the confidence and peace of mind you need to navigate the ever-changing landscape of life. Where certainty is Achieving the Right Balance Finding the sweet spot between life and wealth can be a game-changer, melting away financial stress and bringing peace. A balanced financial plan allows you to focus on what truly counts – family, friends, health, and wellbeing. Where certainty is Living in the Moment Living for today while planning for tomorrow brings financial peace of mind. With a secure future in the works, you can enjoy today's life while feeling prepared for what's ahead. Where certainty is Embracing Change Life’s turning points provide an opportunity to reassess. These moments of clarity remind us of what's truly important. With our support, you can easily and confidently adapt your plan to accommodate new happenings, challenges, and opportunities that arise along the way. Results You Can Trust At Direct Wealth, our numbers tell the story of trust, experience, and happy clients. With years of dedicated service and countless success stories, we’ve built a reputation for delivering exceptional results. Years of outstanding service 0 Happy & successful clients 0 + Years of collective experience 0 Funds under management $ 0 B+ What Can Working with a Financial Advisor Do for You? Partnering with our financial advisors can help you take control of your financial future and elevate your overall well-being. We provide the guidance and expert insight needed to confidently navigate your financial decisions. Whether it's simplifying complex matters, offering tailored advice, or helping you make informed choices, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our advisors take the time to truly understand your unique financial circumstances. This personalised approach allows us to create strategies that align with your specific goals, ensuring that each step you take is purposeful and effective. With us by your side, you can move forward with confidence, knowing that your finances are being managed with care and precision. START NOW Terry L. Satisfied Client"Many thanks to the team at Direct Wealth for keeping us on track with regards to our financial... --- > Trust our Innisfail financial advisors to help you establish, protect, and grow your wealth with personalised financial planning solutions. - Published: 2024-06-11 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/innisfail/ 5 Over 211 Reviews Establish, Protect and Grow Your Wealth with Innisfail's Premier Financial Advisors You can trust our team of experienced financial planners in Innisfail. Get the expert advice and ongoing support you need to successfully manage your finances. LEARN MORE START NOW As seen on: 5-Star Innisfail Financial Planners Welcome, and thanks for stopping by! You've found your new team of financial planners right here in beautiful Innisfail. We're ready to provide you with expert financial advice tailored to your needs. Our approach to managing your wealth is all about ensuring you enjoy a prosperous life now and into the future. Keep reading to find out more about us, what we offer, and how we can help you reach your financial goals. Award-Winning Service, Exceptional Results We're proud to say that we've been recognised for being amongst the best in Australia. What Can Working with a Financial Advisor Do for You? Teaming up with our financial advisors can significantly enhance your financial well-being. We provide the support and insights needed to navigate financial challenges smoothly. Whether it's breaking down complex issues, or offering tailored advice, we're here to help. Our financial advisors take the time to thoroughly understand your unique situation. This allows us to create strategies specifically designed for you. Whether you have specific financial objectives or need general guidance through life's financial ups and downs, our advisors offer the clarity and support necessary to manage any financial situation confidently. With our personalised approach, you can feel secure and prepared for whatever comes next. We Can Help You With: Our financial advisors provide a wide range of services designed to help you manage and grow your wealth. Everyday financial decisions, crafting investment strategies, managing superannuation, estate planning, or tax efficiency, or anything else, we cover all aspects of financial management. Our tailored advice is customised to fit your unique needs and goals, ensuring you remain on track for financial success. Whether you need immediate assistance or are planning for the future, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our goal is to prepare you for what lies ahead, offering personalised advice that positions you for success. We aim to help you achieve the best possible financial outcomes. We Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals Helping you get to where you want to be is what we do best. In this video, senior financial advisor, Erin, shares how we help our clients succeed. https://vimeo. com/1033333416 Ready to start your journey to financial success? Take the first step and get in touch. START NOW Results You Can Trust At Direct Wealth, our numbers tell the story of trust, experience, and happy clients. With years of dedicated service and countless success stories, we’ve built a reputation for delivering exceptional results. Years of outstanding service 0 Happy & successful clients 0 + Years of collective experience 0 Funds under management $ 0 B+ Why Choose Us? Our goal is to make managing your finances straightforward and effective, so... --- > Caillin is a dedicated professional with a passion for providing exceptional client services. With a keen eye for detail, Caillin works alongside advisers to implement complex financial solutions that are tailored to each client's unique goals. - Published: 2024-06-06 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/caillin-chia-implementation-support/ Caillin Chia Implementation Support Caillin is a dedicated professional with a passion for providing exceptional client services. With a keen eye for detail, Caillin works alongside advisers to implement complex financial solutions that are tailored to each client's unique goals. Caillin ensures clients are well-informed and is more than happy to answer any questions throughout the financial advisory process. Outside of work, Caillin finds joy in traveling overseas, exploring different cultures and landscapes. While in Australia, Caillin enjoys immersing himself in the great outdoors by rock climbing and hiking, often accompanied by his dog. Contact Caillin --- > Greg has been a financial adviser since 2018, growing his skills with ongoing education and a client-first approach along the way. Greg firmly believes that a goal without a plan is just a wish. As a result, he partners with clients to create and update tailored plans to address their needs and wishes. - Published: 2024-05-20 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/greg-bennett/ Financial Advisor Greg has been a financial adviser since 2018, growing his skills with ongoing education and a client-first approach along the way. Greg firmly believes that a goal without a plan is just a wish. As a result, he partners with clients to create and update tailored plans to address their needs and wishes. Greg takes the time to listen, understand the why, and then evaluate strategic opportunities for clients. He communicates complex ideas carefully, ensuring that his advice is of a high quality whilst also being understood. Greg is motivated by sharing in his client’s successes and navigating the highs and lows of new life stages. On the weekends you will find Greg deriving his mood based on the performance of the Arsenal Football Club, practicing a novice golf swing, spending time with his wife and giving back to his local community. Greg holds a Bachelor of Business, Diploma of Financial Planning, and margin lending accreditation. He is currently finishing his Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning. Contact Greg --- > Samuel is an associate who is currently in the latter half of his provisional year. He has worked in numerous financial service and client-facing roles where he enjoys adding a human element into his interactions where possible. - Published: 2024-05-20 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/samuel-carter/ Samuel Carter Paraplanner Samuel is an associate who is currently in the latter half of his provisional year. He has worked in numerous financial service and client-facing roles where he enjoys adding a human element into his interactions where possible. He completed his undergraduate studies in economics and finance before committing to the industry by completing a Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning. Furthermore, he has completed the financial adviser exam, formerly known as the FASEA exam, as administered by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission. Samuel believes that financial advice should feel more like a conversation and less like a university lecture. He believes that the advice should be clear and solely centred around getting great outcomes for those receiving the advice. Outside of work, Samuel enjoys participating in Saturday morning park runs and working out with his friends at the gym. When he is not out and about, he enjoys reading history books and keeping up on current affairs. Contact Sam --- > Daniel is one of our Associates undertaking their Professional Year (PY). He is currently studying a bachelor's degree in business, specialising in Accounting and Financial Planning, bringing a blend of academic rigor and practical experience to the table. - Published: 2024-05-20 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/daniel-westerman/ Daniel Westerman Associate Daniel is one of our Associates undertaking their Professional Year (PY). He is currently studying a bachelor's degree in business, specialising in Accounting and Financial Planning, bringing a blend of academic rigor and practical experience to the table. Daniel’s journey began as a client service implementation specialist, where he spent two years honing his skills in client relations and operational efficiency. Now, as an associate, he leverages this experience to assist our talented financial advisors in providing tailored financial solutions that empower clients to achieve their goals. Daniel believes Financial Planning is about demystifying the complexities of finance and making it accessible to everyone. It's about cutting through the jargon and empowering individuals with clear, understandable guidance to make informed decisions about their financial future. By simplifying the process, Daniel believes we can foster greater confidence and control over one's finances, ultimately leading to a more secure and fulfilling life. Beyond numbers, Daniel has a keen interest in the dynamic interplay within the geopolitical sphere and the profound impact of global decisions on our economy. Staying up to date of these developments allows him to offer nuanced insights and strategies. In addition to his financial acumen, he’s deeply fascinated by the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. By staying at the forefront of AI trends, As he strives to anticipate how these innovations will reshape learning and work dynamics in the future. When he’s not crunching numbers or analysing market trends, you can find him pursuing an active lifestyle. Whether it's hitting the trails for a hike, engaging in a spirited game of touch footy, or pushing himself at the gym. On game day, you can bet he’ll be cheering on his beloved Brisbane Broncos with unwavering passion. Contact Daniel --- > Our Cairns financial advisers are ready to help you establish, protect, and grow your wealth with personalised financial planning solutions. - Published: 2024-05-16 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/cairns/ 5 Over 211 Reviews Establish, Protect & Grow Your Wealth with our Cairns Financial Advisors We're here to help you achieve the best possible outcomes for your financial future. LEARN MORE START NOW As seen on: 5-Star Financial Advice in Cairns Welcome, and thanks for stopping by! You've found your new team of financial planners right here in Cairns. We're ready to provide you with expert financial advice tailored to your needs. Our approach to managing your wealth is all about ensuring you enjoy a prosperous life now and in the future. Keep reading to find out more about us, what we offer, and how we can help you reach your financial goals. Award-Winning Service, Exceptional Results We're proud to say that we've been recognised for being amongst the best in Australia. What Can Working with Our Cairns Financial Advisors Do for You? Working with a financial advisor is all about enhancing your financial well-being. We’re here to help you reach your financial goals and provide the support and insights needed to handle financial challenges with ease. Whether it’s simplifying complex issues or offering tailored advice, we've got you covered. Our financial advisors take the time to really understand your unique situation and craft strategies that fit you perfectly. Whether you have specific financial goals or just need some general guidance for life’s ups and downs, our advisors are here to help. They offer the clarity and support you need to confidently manage any financial situation and ensure you’re always ready for what comes next. Here's What We Can Help You With Our financial advisor services provide everything you need to secure and grow your wealth. From everyday financial decisions, savvy investment strategies, superannuation advice, to estate planning and tax efficiency, we've got you covered. We tailor our advice to align with your unique position and desired outcomes, using proactive approaches to ensure you achieve the best possible financial outcomes. Whether it’s planning for now or the future, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals Helping you get to where you want to be is what we do best. In this video, senior financial advisor, Erin, shares how we help our clients succeed. https://vimeo. com/1033333416 Ready to start your journey to financial success? Take the first step and get in touch. START NOW Results You Can Trust At Direct Wealth, our numbers tell the story of trust, experience, and happy clients. With years of dedicated service and countless success stories, we’ve built a reputation for delivering exceptional results. Years of outstanding service 0 Happy & successful clients 0 + Years of collective experience 0 Funds under management $ 0 B+ Why Choose Us? Our goal is to make managing your finances straightforward and effective, so you can look forward to a future that’s secure, comfortable, and aligned with your dreams. We Make Things Easy Your new team of financial experts will help you find the best way forward. Instead of... --- > Our Redcliffe financial advisors are ready to help you establish, protect, and grow your wealth with expert financial advice. - Published: 2024-05-14 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/redcliffe/ 5 Over 211 Reviews Establish, Protect & Grow Your Wealth with our Redcliffe Financial Advisors We're here to help you achieve the best possible outcomes for your financial future. LEARN MORE START NOW As seen on: 5-Star Financial Advice Welcome, and thanks for visiting! You've found your new team of financial planners here in vibrant Redcliffe. We're thrilled to provide you with expert financial advice tailored to your unique needs. Our holistic approach to wealth management ensures you enjoy a prosperous life now and in the future. Keep reading to learn more about us, explore our services, and see how we can help you achieve your financial goals. Award-Winning Service, Exceptional Results We're proud to say that we've been recognised for being amongst the best in Australia. What Can Working with Our Redcliffe Financial Advisors Do for You? Working with a financial advisor is all about improving your financial health. We don't just focus on reaching financial goals; we provide the support and insights you need to tackle financial challenges with ease. Whether it's simplifying complex issues or offering tailored advice, we're here to help you manage your finances confidently. Whether you have specific goals or need general advice for life's ups and downs, our advisors are here to guide you. They offer the clarity and support you need to handle any financial situation with confidence, ensuring you're always prepared for what's next and set up for the best outcome. Here's What We Can Help You With Our financial advisor services provide everything you need to secure and grow your wealth. From everyday financial decisions, savvy investment strategies, superannuation advice, to estate planning and tax efficiency, we've got you covered. We tailor our advice to align with your unique position and desired outcomes, using proactive approaches to ensure you achieve the best possible financial outcomes. Whether it’s planning for now or the future, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals Helping you get to where you want to be is what we do best. In this video, senior financial advisor, Erin, shares how we help our clients succeed. https://vimeo. com/1033333416 Ready to start your journey to financial success? Take the first step and get in touch. START NOW Results You Can Trust At Direct Wealth, our numbers tell the story of trust, experience, and happy clients. With years of dedicated service and countless success stories, we’ve built a reputation for delivering exceptional results. Years of outstanding service 0 Happy & successful clients 0 + Years of collective experience 0 Funds under management $ 0 B+ Why Choose Us? Our goal is to make managing your finances straightforward and effective, so you can look forward to a future that’s secure, comfortable, and aligned with your dreams. We Make Things Easy Your new team of financial experts will help you find the best way forward. Instead of trying to figure things out on your own, you get direct access to expert knowledge,... --- > Establish, protect, and grow your wealth with trusted financial advice from our team of Sunshine Coast financial advisors. - Published: 2024-05-13 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/sunshine-coast/ 5 Over 211 Reviews Establish, Protect & Grow Your Wealth with our Sunshine Coast Financial Advisors We're here to help you achieve the best possible outcomes for your financial future. LEARN MORE START NOW As seen on: 5-Star Sunshine Coast Financial Advice Welcome, and thanks for stopping by! You’ve just found your new team of financial planners right here on the Sunshine Coast. We're excited to offer you expert financial advice tailored to your needs. Our comprehensive approach to managing your wealth ensures that you enjoy a prosperous life now and in the future. Keep reading to discover more about us, explore the services we offer, and find out how we can help you achieve your financial dreams. Award-Winning Service, Exceptional Results We're proud to say that we've been recognised for being amongst the best in Australia. What Can working with Our Sunshine Coast Financial Advisors Do for You? Working with a financial advisor is all about enhancing your financial health. Our approach isn't just about reaching financial goals; it's about providing the support and insights you need to navigate through financial challenges with ease. Whether it's clarifying complex financial issues or giving tailored advice, we're here to help you manage your finances confidently. Our financial advisors get to know your personal financial situation intimately, crafting strategies that are tailored just for you. Whether you have specific financial objectives or need general advice to manage life’s ups and downs, our advisors are here to guide you. They offer the clarity and support needed to confidently handle any financial situation, ensuring you're always ready for what comes next, and positioned for the best outcome. Here's What We Can Help You With Our financial advisor services provide everything you need to secure and grow your wealth. From everyday financial decisions, savvy investment strategies, superannuation advice, to estate planning and tax efficiency, we've got you covered. We tailor our advice to align with your unique position and desired outcomes, using proactive approaches to ensure you achieve the best possible financial outcomes. Whether it’s planning for now or the future, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. We Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals Helping you get to where you want to be is what we do best. In this video, senior financial advisor, Erin, shares how we help our clients succeed. https://vimeo. com/1033333416 Ready to start your journey to financial success? Take the first step and get in touch. START NOW Results You Can Trust At Direct Wealth, our numbers tell the story of trust, experience, and happy clients. With years of dedicated service and countless success stories, we’ve built a reputation for delivering exceptional results. Years of outstanding service 0 Happy & successful clients 0 + Years of collective experience 0 Funds under management $ 0 B+ Why Choose Us? Our goal is to make managing your finances straightforward and effective, so you can look forward to a future that’s secure, comfortable, and aligned with your dreams. We Make... --- > Our trusted financial advisors in Brisbane will help you establish, protect and grow your wealth with expert financial advice. - Published: 2024-01-29 - Modified: 2025-06-05 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/brisbane/ 5 Over 211 Reviews Work with a Trusted Financial Advisor in Brisbane Our Brisbane financial advisors are here to help you create a strategy that works in the real world — whether you're investing, planning for retirement, or just getting started. LEARN MORE START NOW As seen on: Expert Financial Planners in Brisbane Welcome, and thanks for stopping by! You've found your new team of financial planners in Brisbane, and we're here to give you valuable financial advice. Our solutions for life and wealth are designed to help you live well, both now and in the future. Read on to learn a little bit about us, what we can do for you, and how we can help you get to where you want to be. Award-Winning Service, Exceptional Results We're proud to say that we've been recognised for being amongst the best in Australia. What Can a Financial Advisor in Brisbane Do for You? A financial advisor in Brisbane plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving your financial well-being. Financial advising is all about giving you the support you need to handle your financial affairs with confidence, no matter what challenges you face. It's not just about setting goals; it's also about offering clarity on the complex financial questions that come up along the way. A financial advisor helps you understand the complexities of the financial world, providing clear and actionable advice tailored to your unique circumstances. Our Brisbane financial advice services provide everything you need to establish, secure and grow your wealth. From everyday financial decisions, savvy investment strategies, superannuation advice, to estate planning and tax efficiency, we've got you covered. We tailor our advice to align with your unique position and desired outcomes, using proactive approaches to ensure you achieve the best possible financial outcomes. Whether it’s planning for now or the future, our team of financial advisors in Brisbane are here to guide you every step of the way. We Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals Helping you get to where you want to be is what we do best. In this video, senior financial advisor, Erin, shares how we help our clients succeed. https://vimeo. com/1033333416 Ready to start your journey to financial success? Take the first step and get in touch. START NOW Results You Can Trust At Direct Wealth, our numbers tell the story of trust, experience, and happy clients. With years of dedicated service and countless success stories, we’ve built a reputation for delivering exceptional results. Years of outstanding service 0 Happy & successful clients 0 + Years of collective experience 0 Funds under management $ 0 B+ Why Choose Us? Our goal is to make managing your finances straightforward and effective, so you can look forward to a future that’s secure, comfortable, and aligned with your dreams. We Make Things Easy Your new team of financial experts will help you find the best way forward. Instead of trying to figure things out on your own, you get direct access to expert knowledge,... --- > Unlock your new financial future, retire well, and enjoy real peace of mind. Our experts are waiting to help you. - Published: 2024-01-15 - Modified: 2025-06-19 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/start-your-journey/ 5 Over 211 Reviews Start Here: A Quick, No-Obligation Chat This first step comes at no cost to you—just a quick, no-pressure chat to understand your financial situation and goals. In just 10 minutes, we’ll answer your questions, explain how we can help, and outline the next steps. No commitments, no sales pitch — just a friendly chat to see if we’re the right fit. Fill out the form, and we’ll be in touch to book a time that works for you. Prefer to call instead? 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Trigger post render to initialize scripts. gform. initializeOnLoaded(function {jQuery(document). trigger("gform_pre_post_render", ); if (event && event. defaultPrevented) { return; } const gformWrapperDiv = document. getElementById( "gform_wrapper_3" ); if ( gformWrapperDiv ) { const visibilitySpan = document. createElement( "span" ); visibilitySpan. id = "gform_visibility_test_3"; gformWrapperDiv. insertAdjacentElement( "afterend", visibilitySpan ); } const visibilityTestDiv = document. getElementById( "gform_visibility_test_3" ); let postRenderFired = false; function triggerPostRender { if ( postRenderFired ) { return; } postRenderFired = true; gform. core. triggerPostRenderEvents( 3, 1 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv ) { visibilityTestDiv. parentNode. removeChild( visibilityTestDiv ); } } function debounce( func, wait, immediate ) { var timeout; return function { var context = this, args = arguments; var later = function { timeout = null; if ( ! immediate ) func. apply( context, args ); }; var callNow = immediate && ! timeout; clearTimeout( timeout ); timeout = setTimeout( later, wait ); if ( callNow ) func. apply( context, args ); }; } const debouncedTriggerPostRender = debounce( function { triggerPostRender; }, 200 ); if ( visibilityTestDiv && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent === null ) { const observer = new MutationObserver( ( mutations ) => { mutations. forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation. type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent ! == null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender; observer. disconnect; } }); }); observer. observe( document. body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: , }); } else { triggerPostRender; } }); } ); } ); } )( jQuery ); --- > Anne-maree Lane, Implementation Support team member, plays a key role in the efficient execution of financial plans and client satisfaction. - Published: 2023-11-29 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/anne-maree-lane/ Anne-Maree Lane Implementation Support Ann-Maree joined our support team after re-locating from far north Queensland to help with the initial and ongoing implementation of our clients’ financial strategies. Outside of working with this entertaining team of people, she likes travelling and finding the next adventure, as well as going to concerts and watching live bands. Otherwise, Anne-Maree is happy at home with her family, baking up a storm for everyone at home and work. Contact Anne-maree --- > Daniel Stojanovski, a member of our Investment Committee, contributes strategic insights to investment decisions & portfolio management. - Published: 2023-09-21 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/daniel-stojanovski/ Daniel Stojanovski Investment Committee - Head of research, Centrepoint Alliance Daniel is a member of the Direct Wealth investment committee providing analysis and insights for our investment portfolios. Daniel joined Centrepoint Alliance in October 2020 as Head of Research, he is responsible for Centrepoint Alliance’s Research offering and runs the firms model portfolios and approved product list. He is also responsible for the managed accounts, investment philosophy, responsible investment philosophy, investment strategy and asset allocation. Daniel has over 10 years of investment experience, holding several responsibilities in research across managed funds, equities, and portfolio management over his career. Previously to Centrepoint Alliance, Daniel spent five and a half years at Insignia (formerly IOOF) as a Portfolio Manager in their Research team, where he helped run a number of portfolios from accumulation to retirement, while also launching Insignia’s ESG philosophy and ESG portfolios. Prior to this, Daniel spent two and a half years with Challenger Limited, working across numerous funds at Challenger, under their Fidante Partners Business and he also worked at Morgan Stanley within their Investment Management division. Daniel has a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics and Business Law), University of Wollongong and Master of Finance, University of Technology, Sydney Contact Daniel --- > Michael is the chair of the Direct Wealth investment committee, providing his expertise and oversight of portfolio management. - Published: 2023-09-21 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/michael-fury/ Michael Fury Investment Committee - Principal/Delta Research & Advisory Michael is the chair of the Direct Wealth investment committee providing his expertise and oversight of portfolio management. Michael started Delta Research & Advisory in 2012 to provide institutional quality quantitative research analysis and investment committee services to the Australian Wealth Management industry. His clients have ranged from boutique financial advisory businesses to large global investment management companies. Prior to starting Delta, Michael was head of research at Suncorp from 2008 to 2012. Michael is a current director of Delta Research & Advisory, Delta Factors Pty Ltd (Fund Analytics company created by Michael), and The Investment Committee Pty Ltd (an investment conference producer). Michael has received a Master of Applied Finance, Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning, and Bachelor of Mathematics (w Statistics). He is a Senior Fellow of FINSIA, Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA), and achieved his Certified Financial Planner designation in 2004. He currently consults to or is a member of around twelve investment committees around Australia. Contact Michael --- > Jody is a member of the Direct Wealth investment committee providing analysis and insights for our investment portfolios. - Published: 2023-09-21 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/jody-fitzgerald/ Jody Fitzgerald Investment Committee - Head of Institutional Portfolio Management & Solutions, Morningstar Investment Management Jody is a member of the Direct Wealth investment committee providing analysis and insights for our investment portfolios. Jody joined Morningstar Investment Management Australia Limited in November 2018 as Head of Institutional Portfolio Management and Solutions, where she is responsible for the design and management of institutional portfolios. She is also a member of the APAC Investment Policy Committee, APAC Portfolio Construction Sub-Committee and the APAC Investment Selection Sub-Committee. Jody is also responsible for developing client-focused investment solutions and tools, such as the Morningstar Retirement Strategy Tool, and is a key spokesperson at conferences, webinars, client events and on podcasts. A senior investment executive with 25 years of experience in investment management and business leadership roles. She has a unique combination of skills and experience gained through working across all parts of the financial services value chain, including retail, institutional, platforms, private wealth and asset management. A multi-asset class specialist with specific expertise in managing multi-asset portfolios, fundamental investment and macro research and investment process design and development. Prior to joining Morningstar, Jody worked at Australian Unity Investment as Head of Investment Strategy for 6 years where she was accountable for the investment process integrity across AU’s boutique asset management firm and developing fit-for-purpose multi-asset class investment solutions for institutional clients. She also held other senior management roles at UBS Wealth Management (Head of Investment Research), Deutsche Asset Management (Investment Strategist) and Skandia (Head of Retail Investment Services). Jody has a Bachelor of Economics and Finance with First Class Honours and a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance and Investment Contact Jody --- > Meet Josh White, Associate Financial Planner at Direct Wealth. Josh specializes in creating personalized financial plans. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/josh-white/ Financial Adviser Joshua, with five years of experience in the financial planning industry, brings an expert understanding of unique financial situations and a skill for crafting strategies tailored to meet your specific needs. Armed with degrees in Economics, majoring in international finance, Commerce, specialising in finance, and a Master's of Financial Planning, Joshua has more than just formal education. He nurtures a keen interest in discerning economic trends and appreciates the intricate dance between politics and financial markets. As the world of finance and technology continue to interweave, Joshua remains at the forefront, particularly excited by the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence within the financial sector. He is continually exploring ways to harness these advancements to enhance his clients' experiences. Believing that good financial advice should never be a puzzle, Joshua's mission is to deliver clear, comprehensive advice. His ultimate goal is to instil a sense of confidence and security about your financial future, making your financial journey feel less like a daunting task and more like a planned tour with a trusted guide. Outside of the finance world, Joshua is an adventure enthusiast. Whether it's catching waves while surfing, exploring new places in his converted van, or camping out for the weekend, he enjoys the thrill that each adventure brings. He believes that just as a well-spent weekend can refresh your perspective, a well-planned financial strategy can bring peace of mind and freedom to pursue the things you love. Contact Josh --- > Discover Yvette Peucker, our Head of Support at Direct Wealth. Yvette's leadership ensures exceptional client service and operational excellence. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/yvette-peucker/ Yvette Peucker Partner, Head of Support Yvette has been in the financial services industry for pretty much forever, with vast experience in financial planning, paraplanning, office management and client services. She provides exceptional support to our advisers and enjoys the day-to-day challenge of managing our operations and our vast support team. Yvette prides herself and her team in providing high quality customer service to ensure you are dealt with in a timely, professional manner as our valued client. Keeping up with changes within the financial planning industry is a must and Yvette is constantly learning and developing to ensure that you will receive the most relevant and up-to-date information. Yvette believes in a happy work/life balance and being able to maintain this is important to her. She loves spending time with her family and taking time out for herself at the gym. She is known for having unbelievably great hair and always ready for a laugh. Yvette has also been affectionately nicknamed Brum (Brisbane mum) of the office. Contact Yvette --- > Michael Saunders combines roles as an Advice Coach and Paraplanner, enhancing advice quality and strategic financial planning. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/michael-saunders/ Michael Saunders Head of Compliance Michael has worked in financial services for over 25 years. Michael started out in Sydney preparing tax returns, then did banking and mortgage broking work for many years. He eventually came to the realisation that in order to help a client with all aspects of their finances, that financial planning was the best way to go. Michael spent a decade working directly with clients, helping them achieve their financial goals. He then moved to Brisbane and started doing more specialised technical and compliance work with financial planning practices. Michael holds a Diploma of Financial Planning (DipFP) and is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). He holds a Cert IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking and other specialist accreditations including SMSFs, margin lending and Compliance/RM courses. Outside the office Michael plays pinball and likes spoiling his wife, and their cats and dog. Contact Michael --- > Ben Marlow, a Financial Adviser at Direct Wealth, is dedicated to developing personalized financial strategies for long-term client success. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/ben-marlow/ Ben Marlow Financial Adviser Born and raised in Cambridge, England, Ben emigrated to Australia in 2010 and now calls Queensland home. Ben began his journey in the industry 10+ years ago working in administrative and client support roles, working his way up to becoming an adviser. This has earned him the talent for explaining financial concepts in an easy-to-understand manner and understands all areas of the financial advice process. A thing Ben prides himself on is educating clients on financial matters and empowering them to make informed decisions. Ben believes that a good financial adviser is constantly learning and evolving. To ensure he can put his clients in a better position, he keeps up to date with changes in legislation and continues to pursue formal education. He is accredited to provide Self-Managed Superannuation (SMSF) Advice, holds a Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning (2024), Diploma of Financial Planning (2015), and a Diploma of Business (2013). He is currently working towards a Master of Financial Planning. Ben has also passed the FASEA Adviser Ethics Exam and is a registered Tax (Financial) Adviser through the Tax Practitioners Board. Outside of work, Ben enjoys running and can be found at parkrun (5km) events every Saturday across Queensland. He also enjoys camping, socialising with friends and family, and is on the hunt for Brisbane’s best sausage roll. Authorised Rep 1260299 Contact Ben --- > Sam Dwight, Financial Adviser at Direct Wealth, offers expert guidance in wealth management, helping clients achieve their financial goals. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/sam-dwight/ Sam Dwight Financial Adviser Sam’s passion to help others through life’s highs and lows drew him to the financial planning profession. Despite his youthful looks, he has over 10 years’ experience across various financial services roles, which was a strategic approach to become a subject matter expert in insurance, investment, and superannuation. Academically, Sam is recognised as graduating in the top 15% of students across 400 universities internationally and received Golden Key International Honours Society membership. Sam holds a degree in financial planning and is extremely proud to achieve top student honours in the degree for insurance, risk management as well as ethics. Sam completed his Financial Advice Professional year under Managing Director Simon Coombes and has been thoroughly enjoying his journey helping his clients as a financial adviser. Sam has passed the FASEA ethics exam. Outside of work, Sam’s passion is surfing. However, he has recently discovered the world under the sea by learning to scuba dive. When he is not in the water, you’ll find Sam training for triathlons or out exploring in the mountains. Contact Sam --- > Erin has a wealth of experience in Financial Advice, having worked in the Financial Services industry for over twelve years. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/erin-truscott/ Erin Truscott Senior Financial Adviser Erin comes to us with a wealth of experience in Financial Advice having worked in the Financial Services industry for over twelve years. It brings Erin much joy to spend her days working with her clients to help them build meaningful strategies that achieve their lifestyle and financial goals, with a true belief that wealth is far more than just money. Financial Freedom means different things to different people, and Erin is right in there getting her sneakers dirty on the daily and gets a huge kick out of working with her clients to create this. Amidst the craziness of Erin’s busy days, she’s mum to toddler Florence. The challenge of motherhood has been by far her biggest and best challenge and has taught her some of her greatest lessons to date. Erin holds an Advance Diploma of Financial Services, as well as a FChFP designation. She is currently working on completing her Master’s in Financial Planning. Authorised Rep 468058 Contact Erin --- > Ella Simmonds, an integral part of Client Services Support team, excels in ensuring client satisfaction & seamless service delivery. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-04-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/ella-simmonds/ Ella Simmonds Senior Client Services Support Ella is a highly experienced client services and administrative professional. She has worked within a variety of industries prior to entering the finance industry. Ella excels in establishing a rapport and building quality ongoing relationships between Direct Wealth and our clients. Ella thrives on the challenges that the finance industry provides and aims to ensure that communication is open and transparent. Ella enjoys assisting clients and is always helpful and approachable and with her rollup the sleeves attitude, gets the job done. Outside of the office, Ella loves spending time with her family at the beach, on the sporting field or competing in a serious game of Mario Kart. Contact Ella --- > Kellie Browne, Executive Assistant at Direct Wealth, plays a pivotal role in supporting our leadership and ensuring seamless operations. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-05-01 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/kellie-browne/ Kellie Browne Operations Manager Kellie has joined our team after re-joining the workforce from raising her 2 beautiful children. Kellie holds a Diploma in Finance & Mortgage Broking and comes to us with an extensive background in financial planning, from adviser support, licensee onboarding and practice finance. Outside of work, Kellie loves snuggles with Alfie (her French bulldog), catching up with family and listening to crime podcasts. Contact Kellie --- > Kirsty Wallace, a skilled Financial Adviser at Direct Wealth, offers insightful guidance, strategies for robust financial health & growth. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/kirsty-wallace/ Kirsty Wallace Senior Financial Adviser Kirsty is a skilled financial advice professional who specialises in superannuation, investments, retirement planning and wealth protection. Kirsty has worked in the industry since 2014 and has a passion for building strong relationships with her clients and priding herself on open and honest communication. Kirsty holds a Diploma of Financial Planning and is currently working towards a Bachelor of Commerce Majoring in Financial Planning. Kirsty has also passed the FASEA Adviser Ethics Exam and is a registered Tax (Financial) Adviser through the Tax Practitioners Board. Outside of work, Kirsty enjoys spending time out on the water, camping and exploring with her fiancé and their three dogs. Authorised Rep 1259216 Contact Kirsty --- > Stuart Stevenson, Paraplanner at Direct Wealth, excels in detailed financial planning support, enhancing strategy development for clients. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/stuart-stevensen/ Stuart Stevensen Senior Paraplanner Stuart commenced in the financial services sector in 2015 upon completion of dual Bachelor of Business / Bachelor of Science. Over this time Stuart has played an important role supporting advisers and clients at various stages of the advice journey. Stuart’s attention to detail and research skills contribute to the development of accurate and effective strategies for clients. He takes enormous pride seeing clients improve their own financial position. Born and raised on the Sunshine Coast, outside of work Stuart enjoys spending time running, hiking and playing volleyball. He is a keen follower of sports both locally and abroad. Contact Stuart --- > Blake Menere, essential in Administration Support at Direct Wealth, ensures top-tier operational efficiency and excellence in client services. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/blake-menere/ Blake Menere Administration Support Blake only started in the financial planning industry a year ago with us but has gained a lot of experience during his time with us. He is a front-line administrator, which entails sending appointment confirmations, preparing paperwork for appointments, and researching client accounts and policies to ensure advisers have all the information they need to advise with confidence. Outside of work, Blake is a member of a pottery club where he enjoys making small character sculptures, some of which decorate his desk. He also has a great love of music, arts and crafts such as building miniature and model kits, and drawing, logic puzzles, and video games. Contact Blake --- > Lyle Filer, a dedicated Financial Adviser at Direct Wealth, specialises in holistic financial planning advice. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/lyle-filer/ Lyle Filer Senior Financial Adviser Lyle has been a registered adviser since 2013 and specialises in holistic financial planning advice. He aims to provide quality service and personalised advice tailored to his client’s needs that is easy to understand. He prides himself on building long-term relationships with clients and guiding them through the process to meet their financial goals. Lyle has completed extensive study related to the financial planning industry, including his Diploma of Financial Planning (DFP), Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning (ADFP), Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning (GradDipFP) and Master of Financial Planning (MFinPlan) and SMSF specialist course. He is also a qualified Justice of the Peace (JP Qual). He understands and respects the importance of education in the financial planning industry and welcomes the new education requirements being enforced. Authorised Rep 438486 Contact Lyle --- > As a proven problem solver, Jaz thrives on adapting to the fast paced & heavily compliant environment within the financial planning industry. - Published: 2023-08-07 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/jasmine-hastings/ Jasmine Hastings Implementation Support With a Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Fine Arts behind her, Jaz has no hesitation in applying her versatile skills and charismatic charm to supporting our clients in implementing the steps towards realising their goals and dreams. With Jaz’s creativity and a passion for our clients, she always finds time to brighten their day and knows that financial planning is always better with a smile. As a proven problem solver, Jaz thrives on adapting to the fast paced and heavily compliant environment within the financial planning industry, and is currently in the midst of completing her Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning. Outside the office, Jaz spends her time pinning and framing insects, re-reading the Twilight Saga and chasing after her toddler and two cats. Contact Jasmine --- > We are excited to announce that Wealth & Retirement Solutions has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - Published: 2023-07-17 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/wealth-and-retirement-solutions/ Wealth & Retirement Solutions has merged with Direct Wealth We are excited to announce that Wealth & Retirement Solutions has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. As part of this transition, we have decided to consolidate our services under the Direct Wealth brand. Effective immediately, all WRS customers will be seamlessly transitioned to Direct Wealth, where you will continue to receive the same exceptional level of personalised care and expertise that you have come to expect. Our dedicated team at Direct Wealth is committed to providing you with comprehensive financial solutions and guiding you towards a prosperous future. We are excited about this opportunity to serve you better and look forward to continuing our partnership with you as part of the Direct Wealth family. Contact Us --- > We are excited to announce that Wealth Path Financial Services has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - Published: 2023-07-17 - Modified: 2024-02-15 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/wealth-path-financial-services/ Wealth Path Financial Solutions has merged with Direct Wealth We are excited to announce that Wealth Path Financial Services has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. As part of this transition, we have decided to consolidate our services under the Direct Wealth brand. Effective immediately, all Wealth Path Financial Services customers will be seamlessly transitioned to Direct Wealth, where you will continue to receive the same exceptional level of personalised care and expertise that you have come to expect. Our dedicated team at Direct Wealth is committed to providing you with comprehensive financial solutions and guiding you towards a prosperous future. We are excited about this opportunity to serve you better and look forward to continuing our partnership with you as part of the Direct Wealth family. Contact Us --- > We are excited to announce that Ethica Private Wealth Specialists has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. - Published: 2023-06-27 - Modified: 2024-06-18 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/ethica-private-wealth-specialists/ Ethica Private Wealth Specialists has merged with Direct Wealth We are excited to announce that Ethica Private Wealth Specialists has joined forces with Direct Wealth, a leading financial advisory firm. As part of this transition, we have decided to consolidate our services under the Direct Wealth brand. Effective immediately, all Ethica Private Wealth Specialists customers will be seamlessly transitioned to Direct Wealth, where you will continue to receive the same exceptional level of personalised care and expertise that you have come to expect. Our dedicated team at Direct Wealth is committed to providing you with comprehensive financial solutions and guiding you towards a prosperous future. We are excited about this opportunity to serve you better and look forward to continuing our partnership with you as part of the Direct Wealth family. Contact Us --- > Meet Joel Simmonds, Partner & Head of Advice at Direct Wealth, leading in strategic financial advice and client-focused solutions. - Published: 2023-06-23 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/joel-simmonds/ Joel Simmonds Partner, Head of Advice, Executive Financial Adviser Joel has spent his time in the finance industry across many roles, which has built his overall approach to how he likes to work with his clients to create the best possible experience to help them achieve their goals. Joel is passionate about learning about his clients and helping guide them in the right direction to improving their overall financial position – whether that be owning their home sooner, retiring comfortably, growing their wealth or simply giving them peace of mind knowing their financial affairs are well looked after. Joel’s experience ranges from your everyday ‘mum and dad’ investors, through to high-net-worth business clients. Recognising that each client is different and have their own specific goals they want to achieve, Joel enjoys tailoring his advice and working with clients over the long term to ensure these goals become reality. Away from the office Joel and his wife have 3 beautiful children and enjoy holidaying and spending time with family and friends. Joel is a sporting tragic having played and coached senior level football and enjoys most sporting codes. Authorised Rep 1260332 Contact Joel --- > Sam Patterson, General Manager at Direct Wealth, drives operational excellence and strategic growth, ensuring superior client experiences. - Published: 2023-06-23 - Modified: 2025-05-01 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/sam-patterson/ Sam Patterson Head of Operations Sam began his financial planning career from the ground up in 2008 as a paraplanner, quickly advancing through the ranks of compliance, practice development manager and owning a financial planning practice. This ‘apprenticeship’ over the past 13 years, gives Sam a rare breadth of experience, which has been him moved away from working in businesses to working on them. A capable adviser with excellent strategic experience, Sam also excels in process design, software customisations & adoption, helping ensure we deliver the best possible client experience. Having previously consulted with many firms, Sam has made Direct Wealth his home after deciding he wanted to build something lasting – A great business built with respected peers helping clients live a rich life, not just becoming wealthy. Contact Sam --- > Simon Coombes, Director & Executive Financial Adviser, leads with innovative financial strategies and client-centric advisory excellence. - Published: 2023-06-23 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/simon-coombes/ Simon Coombes Director & Executive Financial Adviser Simon founded Direct Wealth in May 2017 with nothing but a vision, a small office in Auchenflower, and probably too much coffee. Since then, it’s grown into a thriving business, but one thing hasn’t changed—his passion for helping clients take control of their financial futures. As a financial advisor, Simon believes in cutting through the jargon and making wealth management simple (or at least, as simple as possible). He knows that financial planning can feel overwhelming, so he’s made it his mission to provide clear, practical advice tailored to each client’s unique goals. No confusing finance talk, just straightforward strategies to help you build and protect your wealth. An authorised representative (License Number: 459078), Simon takes pride in staying ahead of industry changes, ensuring his clients receive expert advice that meets the highest standards. He’s all about making financial security feel achievable—without the stress. When he’s not crunching numbers or guiding clients towards financial freedom, Simon is busy with his real full-time job—being a husband to his amazing wife, Talia, and a dad to their little whirlwind, Leo. Life at home is never dull, thanks to their two mini schnauzers, Taco and Nacho, who believe they run the household (and honestly, they might). If he gets a rare moment to himself, you’ll probably find him attempting to improve his golf game—though Talia might argue that “improving” is a strong word. Balancing family, work, and hobbies isn’t always easy, but Simon wouldn’t have it any other way. And just like in financial planning, he believes life is all about setting goals, having a strategy, and enjoying the journey along the way. Contact Simon --- > Discover the story behind Direct Wealth, your trusted financial advisors. Learn about our commitment to excellence in financial planning. - Published: 2023-05-29 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/about-us/ Our Story Direct Wealth was founded by Simon Coombes in May 2017 as the sole adviser, operating a small practice in Brisbane. With a passion for financial planning and a vision for growth, each year the practice has exceeded these expectations and Direct Wealth now offers its clients a dedicated team of 45+ professionals conveniently located throughout Queensland, with the rest of Australia soon to follow. Together with the growth of the practice, Direct Wealth continues to uphold its commitment to providing each client with exceptional quality service and a personalised experience. The wider range of services, coupled with the increased number of skilled professionals, means clients benefit from a greater wealth of experience and a diverse skill set. We value you immensely and are grateful to all our clients who have come on this journey with us as we continue to grow with the support of our fantastic team. Our Mission We are dedicated to delivering a seamless and innovative experience, striving to exceed your expectations and meet your evolving needs. Your satisfaction and success are our driving forces as we continue to develop and enhance our services. We want to be the centre of your financial lives, providing comfort during the uncertain. Client Centric Approach Understanding your aspirations, concerns, and priorities through attentive listening. Tailoring financial plans to your unique needs and goals. Taking into account your entire financial picture and life circumstances. Providing clear and understandable explanations and updates throughout the planning process. In everything we do, you come first. We prioritise personalised service to determine your unique values & goals. This underpins the basis of the entire process, which although may be similar for each client, the output is always tailored specifically to you. Start your Journey --- > Discover what our clients love about working with us! These real reviews will give you an insight into what we can do for you. - Published: 2023-05-29 - Modified: 2025-04-16 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/reviews/ Real Client Success Stories Discover the experiences of those who’ve partnered with us on their financial journeys. Our clients’ stories speak to the trust and confidence they’ve placed in us — and the meaningful outcomes we’ve helped them achieve. Get Started Brooke & Justin https://vimeo. com/999001463 Read the Transcript Justin (00:00):We actually heard about Direct Wealth through a good friend of ours. We were speaking to her up on our pool area at home, and she mentioned Erin and all the great work that Erin was able to do for her. That sparked our interest and we reached out. Brooke (00:15):I guess it was a little bit daunting really, when you think about, you’re talking about your finances with someone that you’ve never met before and in particular as a couple. You are also speaking quite openly around your individual circumstances, but also together as a couple. Justin (00:30):Erin’s experience really shone through in that first meeting. She was able to explain a lot of things to us. We don’t necessarily come from a finance background, so that explanation was sort of important for us in terms of what the process was going to be and the sort of steps that we would take post that first meeting. Prior to meeting Aaron and running through what we needed to run through, we had our own financial goals. This actually put all of our financial goals on the same page and we co-authored a financial plan together. I think the main thing that we’ve seen is the optimization of our insurances. That’s ultimately resulted in a reduction in our outgoing expenses when it relates to insurance, our superannuation funds in terms of the changes we’ve made in that particular space, and really having a growth view on what that portfolio was as opposed to a standard retail fund. Aaron and the team have been able to really tweak and optimise the returns on that. Brooke (01:28):It was just some really clear things to make us feel like we had this roadmap for our future and we feel confident and we just feel secure, which is really greatJustin (01:39):And I’ve seen the best performance in my super fund effectively since its inception, so we’re extremely happy with the returns and the reductions that Erin and the team were able to make. Brooke (01:52):Just recently, actually, probably less than 12 months ago, we were lucky enough to purchase a beachfront apartment. That was one of our, I guess, long-term goals that kind of crept up a little bit quicker than we had hoped, butJustin (02:08):It really did. Brooke (02:09):But we’re really excited that we were able to secure that property and not only have Erin’s support and guidance through that, just managing our finances, but also just the connections that she has in the industry because we were then able to utilise her network to be able to then liaise with them to assist us with getting a loan and everything from kind... --- > Meet the driving force behind Direct Wealth. Our team of seasoned financial professionals is looking forward to working with you! - Published: 2023-05-29 - Modified: 2025-07-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/our-team/ Meet Our Team Our team is at the heart of everything we do. They're the experts who bring skill, focus, and a touch of personality to every interaction, ensuring you get the best possible service. We take pride in having a team that's not only highly capable but also genuinely invested in making a difference — for our clients and for each other. Simon Coombes Director & Executive Financial Adviser Joel Simmonds Partner, Head of Advice, Executive Financial Adviser Yvette Peucker Partner, Head of Support Stuart White General Manager Sam Patterson Head of Operations Michael Saunders Head of Compliance Victor Larder Head of Finance Tom Raeder Head of Marketing Erin Truscott Senior Financial Adviser Kirsty Wallace Senior Financial Adviser Lyle Filer Senior Financial Adviser Ben Marlow Financial Adviser Nigel Gralton Financial Adviser Josh White Financial Adviser Greg Bennett Financial Adviser Ryan McCormac Financial Adviser Jason Rees Financial Adviser Levi Hohn Financial Adviser Sam Dwight Financial Adviser Nathan Bosman Financial Adviser Daniel Westerman Associate Aaron Steer Senior Business Consultant Stuart Stevensen Senior Paraplanner Kellie Yates Paraplanner Susan Lu Paraplanner Samuel Carter Paraplanner Ella Simmonds Senior Client Services Support Joni Engelbrecht Client Services Support Lauren Preece Client Services Officer Sophie Sparke Client Services Officer Maxine Leigh Senior Implementation Support Anne-Maree Lane Implementation Support Caillin Chia Implementation Support Louise Austin Implementation Support Jasmine Hastings Implementation Support Tianna Rasmussen Implementation Support Leesa Clayton Implementation Support Darcy Murphy-Moore Implementation Support Nicholas Coendoz Implementation Support Fiona Lawrence Engagement Support Kellie Browne Operations Manager Stefania Wagner Loans Officer Michael Fury Investment Committee Daniel Stojanovski Investment Committee Jody Fitzgerald Investment Committee Kellie Browne Operations Manager Kellie Browne Operations Manager Kellie Browne Operations Manager --- > Ready to secure your financial future? Contact Direct Wealth today for personalized financial planning solutions that deliver peace of mind. - Published: 2023-05-29 - Modified: 2025-07-02 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/contact/ Contact Us Enquire now Have a question or ready to get started? Reach out to us by filling out the form below, and our friendly team will be in touch with you shortly. 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Find your nearest office → Brisbane 209D Given Terrace, Paddington Qld 4064 Cairns Suite 4/345 Sheridan St, Cairns North QLD 4870 Capalaba 2/2 Loraine St, Capalaba QLD 4157 Innisfail Level 2 Centrepoint Arcade, 8 Rankin St, Innisfail QLD 4860 Ipswich 150 Brisbane St, Ipswich QLD 4305 Redcliffe 10/77 Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe QLD 4020 Sunshine Coast 1/5 Plaza Parade, Maroochydore Qld 4558 Townsville 321 Sturt St, Townsville City QLD 4810 --- > Read Direct Wealth’s Privacy Policy to understand how we value and protect your personal information. Rest assured; we respect your privacy. - Published: 2023-05-26 - Modified: 2024-02-19 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/privacy-policy/ Respecting your Privacy This Privacy Policy explains how Direct Wealth deals with your personal information (i. e. the information we hold about you). We collect information about you for the purpose of ascertaining your present and ongoing financial needs, priorities, concerns and lifestyle objectives, and to facilitate the provision of high quality professional financial planning and mortgage broking services and advice in a manner consistent with your wishes and expectations. This constitutes the primary purpose in collecting the information by us. We carry out these activities in a manner that is respectful of your personal information and we manage it in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles set out in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act). What is personal information? Personal information includes any information or opinion, about an identified individual or an individual who can be reasonably identified from their information. The information or opinion will still be personal information whether it is true or not and regardless of whether we have kept a record of it. The information that we seek to collect about you will depend on the products or services that we provide. If you do not allow us to collect all of the information we request, we may not be able to deliver all of those services effectively. An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. The Gravatar service privacy policy is available here: https://automattic. com/privacy/. After approval of your comment, your profile picture is visible to the public in the context of your comment. What kinds of personal information do we collect and hold? When you apply for our products or services we may ask for identification information. This could include your name, address, contact details and date of birth. We may also collect your tax file number if we are authorised to collect it and if you choose to supply it. For example, if you apply for insurance, we may collect information about what is being insured, the beneficiaries, and your health and financial situation, depending on the type of insurance. Throughout the life of your product or service, we may collect and hold additional personal information about you. This could include transaction information or making a record of queries or complaints you make and, if you make an insurance claim, collecting additional information to assess the claim. The collection of sensitive information is restricted by the Privacy Act. This includes information about your religion, racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, criminal record, and sexual orientation. It also includes health information. Generally, we only collect this sort of information if it is necessary to provide you with a specific product or service and you have consented to that collection. For example, we may collect health information about you to process a claim under an insurance policy or collect your Tax File Number in order to complete your tax return. For what purposes do we... --- > Prepare for a comfortable retirement with Direct Wealth’s Self Managed Super Fund services. Get expert SMSF Setup advice and guidance. - Published: 2023-05-10 - Modified: 2025-02-26 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/self-managed-super-fund-smsf/ While Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) are a complex strategy with onerous responsibilities, in certain circumstances, they may offer attractive benefits over a standard retail fund. They enable you to gain access to broader investment options, increased investment control, superior tax and estate planning strategies, broader flexibility, transparency and the potential to reduce ongoing investment costs. If OR In the event you decide an SMSF is no longer suitable for you, we can also assist with winding up the fund and transitioning to retail products for easier administration and management. Direct Wealth can assist you in all areas of your self-managed super fund Establishing the SMSF Deciding on appropriate investments Assisting with ongoing legislation, compliance and investment market changes Making contributions Transitioning to retirement Commencing income streams Estate planning Winding up an SMSF --- > Review the Terms and Conditions of Direct Wealth. Understand the policies and guidelines that govern our financial services. - Published: 2022-03-24 - Modified: 2023-12-20 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/terms-and-conditions/ 1. Introduction Welcome to Direct Wealth Financial Planning Services. Thank you for choosing us as your trusted partner in managing and planning your financial future. This document outlines the Terms and Conditions (T&C) that govern your use of our services, including all information, tools, and features provided through our website and in-person consultations. By accessing, browsing, or utilizing the services offered by Direct Wealth, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be legally bound by these T&C. These terms apply to all clients, visitors, and others who wish to access or use our services. If you disagree with any part of these terms, then you may not access or use our services. Our services are designed with your financial wellbeing in mind, providing personalized financial planning, investment management, and advisory services. We strive to ensure that all information and advice provided are accurate, reliable, and in your best financial interests. However, it is essential to note that financial planning and investment involve risks, and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. We also want to emphasize that our services are intended solely for users who are eighteen (18) years of age or older and reside in Australia. By agreeing to these T&C, you represent and warrant that you meet these eligibility requirements. Direct Wealth is committed to continuous improvement and adaptation in an ever-changing financial landscape. As such, we reserve the right to update, change, or replace any part of these T&C by posting updates and/or changes to our website. It is your responsibility to check this page periodically for changes. Your continued use of or access to our services following the posting of any changes constitutes acceptance of those changes. Once again, we are delighted to have you with us and look forward to assisting you in achieving your financial goals. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding these Terms and Conditions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team for clarification.   2. Description of Services Direct Wealth Financial Planning Services is dedicated to offering a wide array of comprehensive financial planning solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Our suite of services is designed to encompass every aspect of financial management and planning, ensuring a holistic approach to your financial wellbeing. Investment Advice: Our investment services are focused on helping you build and manage your investment portfolio. We provide personalized advice based on a thorough analysis of your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Our team stays abreast of market trends and employs strategic asset allocation to optimize your portfolio's performance. Retirement Planning: Planning for retirement is a critical aspect of financial security. We offer expert guidance in creating a retirement plan that aligns with your future lifestyle aspirations and financial objectives. Our approach includes assessing your current financial situation, estimating future needs, and devising a strategy to ensure a comfortable and secure retirement. Estate Planning: Ensuring your assets are appropriately managed and distributed in... --- > Our private wealth advisors and comprehensive financial planning services will help you build a safe, secure and comfortable future. - Published: 2021-03-29 - Modified: 2025-06-05 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/services/ 5 Over 211 Reviews 5-Star Financial Planning Services START NOW Our team of financial advisors are here to help you build a safe, secure and comfortable financial future. Partnering with our expert financial professionals will set you on a path to achieving your goals with confidence and clarity. We specialise in helping you understand where you're at, what your options are, and provide you with a detailed roadmap to get to where you want to be. Whether you're looking to grow your wealth, plan for retirement, or navigate life's financial milestones, our team of friendly wealth advisors is ready to support you at every step. We take a personalised approach, tailoring our services to fit your unique needs and goals. With our expertise, you can make informed decisions that enhance your financial wellbeing and bring you closer to your ideal financial position. Our goal is to provide you with the confidence and peace of mind you need to navigate the ever-changing landscape of life. START NOW Award-Winning Service, Exceptional Results We're proud to say that we've been recognised for being amongst the best in Australia. Why choose us? START NOW We make things easy Partnering with our financial advisors provides you with a significant advantage while greatly reducing your risk. Instead of navigating the financial landscape alone, you gain immediate access to professional expertise, insights, and support — essential components for successful financial planning and wealth management. This knowledge allows us to steer you through the intricacies of finance, enabling you to make decisions that match your financial objectives, without having to devote your time and energy to searching the Internet, reading books, or asking friends (which may or may not provide the correct answers). No matter the challenge, our financial planners have the expertise required to help you safely build the foundations of a strong financial future. We tailor our advice Your desires, goals, and dreams are unique to you. We develop financial plans that empower you to live life on your terms. Our advisors dedicate time to understand your personal financial circumstances, goals and risk tolerance. Developing this insight enables us to customise our recommendations to your situation, guaranteeing a strategy that aligns with your financial position. No matter what you aspire to achieve, our tailored financial planning advice is an invaluable asset. Our goal is to help you achieve everything you aim for — and much more. We give you peace-of-mind Personal finance can be tricky, but don’t worry – we’re here to help. Navigating the financial world can feel like a maze, with so many decisions to make. Needless to say, when your financial future is at risk, getting it right is crucial. Thankfully, our team is here to guide you. We’ll provide time-tested strategies that reduce risk and increase your chances of success. Working with our financial advisors can significantly boost your chances of achieving your financial goals and enjoying a comfortable, stable, and prosperous future. Read Our Rave Reviews These aren't curated reviews; they're... --- --- ## Posts > Can't decide on buying property or investing in shares? We break down the key differences so you can decide what makes the most sense. - Published: 2025-06-03 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/property-vs-shares-which-investment-option-is-right-for-you/ - Categories: Investing - Tags: Property Investing Property vs Shares in Australia (2025): Which Investment Strategy Fits You? Property vs Shares: Which Investment Option Is Right for You? Published 03/06/2025 | Last Updated 03/06/2025 Written by:Erin TruscottSenior Financial Adviser For decades, Aussies have debated the big question: Should you invest in property or shares? It’s the classic comparison — bricks and mortar vs paper assets. And chances are, you’ve heard arguments for both around the dinner table, at weekend BBQs, or scrolling Reddit at 2AM. We recently took a deep dive into whether property is still a smart investment in 2025. If you haven’t read it yet, you can check it out here: Is Property Still a Good Investment in Australia? But now it’s time to zoom out. This article puts property and shares side by side, so you can see how they really compare — not just in theory, but in practice. Because when it comes to building wealth, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your:Financial goalsTime horizonRisk toleranceAnd how hands-on (or hands-off) you want to beSo if you're weighing up where to put your money — or whether to mix both — this guide will help you make a smarter, more informed decision. Table of Contents What Aussies Are Saying When it comes to property vs shares, Aussie investors are anything but shy. Reddit threads likethis one reveal just how split the room still is. Some people lean into the security and control that comes with bricks and mortar:“Property gives you control. Shares give you freedom. ”Others take a more colourful view — but the point stands:“It’s like comparing a house to a vending machine — they both make money, just differently. ”For some, it’s about time and headspace. Property means more involvement, while shares offer a simpler ride:“If you want to get your hands dirty and build equity over time, property works. But shares? You can buy, forget, and get on with life. ”Liquidity — or lack of it — is another big dividing line:“I like shares because I can sell some if I need cash. You can’t sell a bathroom when things get tight. ”And then there’s the leverage conversation. It’s why many stick with property despite the downsides:“The only reason I do property is leverage. No one’s lending me $1. 2M to buy ETFs. ”The takeaway? It’s not about which one is ‘better’. It’s about what fits your lifestyle, your risk appetite, and your goals. Key Pros of Property Investing While it’s not the right fit for everyone, property continues to attract investors — and not without reason. Here are some of the key advantages that make it appealing: LeverageProperty allows you to use borrowed money to control a much larger asset. With a $200K–$400K deposit, you can buy a $1M+ home — something you generally can’t do with shares. Long-Term Capital GrowthAustralian property has historically delivered steady growth over the long term, particularly in major cities. Many investors buy with a 10+ year horizon to ride out the cycles. TangibilityIt’s a real, physical asset. You can see it, improve... --- > Wondering if investing in property is still smart in 2025? We break down the risks, returns, and provide an expert's take to help you decide. - Published: 2025-05-28 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/is-investment-property-still-worth-in-2025/ - Categories: Investing - Tags: Property Investing Wondering if investing in property is still smart in 2025? We break down the risks, returns, insights, and expert advice to help you decide. Is Investment Property Still Worth It in Australia? Published 28/05/2025 | Last Updated 28/05/2025 Written by:Erin TruscottSenior Financial Adviser Owning an investment property has long been a core part of the Aussie dream. Whether it’s your mate who “got in at the right time” or your uncle who’s flipped three houses, property investment in Australia has been seen as a reliable way to build wealth. But in 2025, things feel a bit different. House prices are still sky-high, interest rates have climbed, and rental yields in many areas aren’t exactly inspiring confidence. For new investors — or even seasoned ones — the big question is back on the table: Is property still worth it? In this article, we’ll unpack that question with a practical, no-nonsense take. We’ll look at what everyday Aussies are saying online, crunch some real-world numbers, and hear from Erin — a Senior Financial Advisor and Partner at Direct Wealth — who’ll share her professional take on what makes property a smart move... or a potential misstep. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or already halfway through a pre-approval, this guide is here to help you see the full picture. Table of Contents The Conversation: What Aussies Think If you want an honest look at how Aussies feel about property, Reddit is a goldmine. A recent thread in r/AusFinance sparked a genuine, sometimes blunt, discussion around whether investing in property still stacks up in today’s market. Here’s a breakdown of the recurring themes, concerns, and motivations that came up. Common Concerns Low rental yields: Properties that cost $1. 5 million and only bring in $800 a week in rent don’t go far when you’re facing big mortgage repayments, council rates, and maintenance. “If you're only earning $800 a week on a $1. 5M place, it’s not an investment — it’s a liability. ” Negative cash flow: Some investors reported being out of pocket $40K–$50K+ each year — hoping capital growth will make up for it down the track. “I'm down $50K a year and hoping the value goes up. Not exactly a stress-free investment. ” Opportunity cost: A $375K deposit might be better off in ETFs or inside super, earning 7–10% a year with much less effort. “That money could grow faster in super or ETFs without the headache of tenants and repairs. ” Speculative mindset: A few were candid in admitting they’re mainly betting on long-term growth:“I’m in it for capital gains. The rent barely covers anything. ” Lack of liquidity: When life throws a curveball, you can’t just sell off a room to access cash. “You can’t sell a bedroom if you need cash next month. It’s all or nothing. ” Why People Still Invest in Property Despite the challenges, plenty of Aussies are still backing property — and doing so with clear intent and long-term strategy in mind. Leverage: The ability to control a $1. 5 million asset with a $375K deposit is a massive drawcard. “No other asset lets you leverage five times your capital... --- > How much super do you need to retire in Australia? Discover what a comfortable retirement looks like and how to plan for your financial needs. - Published: 2025-05-06 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/how-much-super-do-you-need-to-retire-comfortably-in-australia/ - Categories: Retirement Planning - Tags: Superannuation Planning for retirement doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through how much super you might need to retire comfortably in Australia, how to work it out by age, and what income you can expect in retirement. How Much Super Do You Need to Retire Comfortably in Australia? Published 06/05/2025 | Last Updated 06/05/2025 Written by:Ben MarlowFinancial Adviser For most Australians, superannuation is the backbone of retirement planning. But one of the biggest questions that keeps popping up — and understandably so — is how much super do you need to retire? It’s not always a simple answer. We’re living longer, the cost of living keeps shifting, and the lifestyle you’re aiming for in retirement plays a massive role in shaping your target. Whether you’re planning for travel and leisure or just want to live comfortably and securely, having a ballpark figure in mind can really help with decision-making now. The good news? You don’t need to have everything figured out at once. This guide is here to walk you through the key factors that influence how much super you might need to retire, how your retirement savings stack up against general benchmarks, and what sort of income your super could provide when the time comes. Think of it as a starting point — not a requirement. No matter where you’re at today, it’s never too early or too late to start making a plan that feels right for you. Table of Contents Retirement Standards in Australia: Modest vs Comfortable Not all retirements look the same — and that’s okay. But when thinking about how much super you’ll need, it helps to understand what’s considered a comfortable retirement income in Australia versus a more modest one. The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) regularly publishes benchmarks to guide Australians in planning for retirement. These figures estimate the annual income needed to support either a modest lifestyle (basic living with few luxuries) or a comfortable lifestyle (one with more room for travel, hobbies, and a few extras). Comfortable retirement income (Australia, June 2024): Around $70,000 per year for couples and $50,000 for singles. Modest retirement income: Around $45,000 for couples and $32,000 for singles. So how does the Age Pension stack up? While it provides a safety net, the age pension falls short of providing a comfortable retirement — especially if you’re aiming for more than just the essentials. The current full Age Pension sits below the modest benchmark, which means it may not be enough to fund a comfortable lifestyle in retirement, particularly with ongoing inflation and rising living costs. That’s why it’s worth thinking beyond just what you’ll receive from the government. Building your super over time can help close the gap and give you more flexibility and freedom later on. If you're curious, you can compare your own retirement expectations with the averages. The ASFA site has helpful resources, and Services Australia provides the latest pension payment rates. Super Needs: Singles vs Couples Everyone’s retirement looks a little different, but one of the biggest factors that affects how much super you’ll need is whether you plan to retire as a single person or as part of a couple. Living costs can be shared between... --- > Wondering if paying for a financial advisor is worth it? Learn how expert advice can help grow wealth, minimise tax, and keep you on track. - Published: 2025-03-03 - Modified: 2025-05-07 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/is-it-worth-paying-for-a-financial-advisor-australia/ - Categories: Financial Advisor, Investing, Retirement Planning, Wealth Creation - Tags: Financial Advisor Fees Wondering if a financial advisor is worth the cost? Learn how expert advice can help grow wealth, minimise tax, and keep you on track for retirement. Is It Worth Paying for a Financial Advisor? Here’s What You Need to Know Published 26/02/2025 | Last Updated 7/05/2025 Written by:Ben MarlowFinancial Adviser If you’ve ever wondered, “Is it worth paying for a financial advisor? ” — you’re not alone. Many Australians hesitate when it comes to financial advice, often seeing it as just another expense. But here’s the real question: what’s the cost of not having a financial plan? A financial advisor isn’t just someone who tells you where to invest your money. They help you structure your finances in a way that protects and grows your wealth over time, ensuring you’re making the most of every opportunity—whether that’s minimising tax, optimising your superannuation, or structuring your assets for long-term security. In this guide, we’ll break down:What a financial advisor actually does (beyond just investments). The biggest misconceptions about financial advice (and why they’re costing people money). Real-life numbers showing how proper financial planning can make a difference. How to tell if you’re on track for retirement—or if you need a better plan. If you’re on the fence about whether a financial advisor is worth it, this article will help you decide. Table of Contents Why We Don’t Work with Everyone A common misconception about financial advisors is that they’ll work with anyone willing to pay. The truth? A good financial advisor won’t take you on as a client unless they genuinely believe they can improve your financial situation. In fact, it’s not just an ethical decision—it’s a legal obligation. As licensed professionals, we’re required to ensure that financial advice is appropriate for each individual’s situation. If we don’t believe we can add value, we’ll tell you upfront. The Most Common Concerns It’s natural to be sceptical when considering whether a financial advisor is worth it. Many people assume they can handle their finances alone—or that paying for advice won’t provide enough value to justify the cost. Let’s break down the most common concerns: "I Can Manage My Own Money. " Many people believe they don’t need a financial advisor because they feel confident managing their finances. But here’s the problem: you don’t know what you don’t know. Even the most financially savvy individuals miss opportunities simply because they aren’t aware of them. Tax strategies, government incentives, investment structuring — there’s a reason high-net-worth individuals and businesses rely on financial experts. Beyond that, cognitive bias plays a huge role in decision-making:People tend to overestimate their financial knowledge, which can lead to costly mistakes. Emotional investing — such as panic-selling in a market downturn — often cost DIY investors thousands in lost gains. Many people underestimate future expenses and don’t realise they’re not on track for retirement until it’s too late. "Financial Advisors Just Sell Products. " Not all financial advisors are commission-based. A reputable financial planner focuses on tailoring strategies to your needs, not selling financial products. The right advisor will: Help you optimise your finances for the long term. Reduce your tax burden where possible. Ensure you’re... --- > Curious about index funds? Learn what a market index is, how index funds track them, and why they’re a simple, effective way to invest. - Published: 2025-01-09 - Modified: 2025-05-07 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/how-do-index-funds-work-a-beginners-guide-to-smart-investing/ - Categories: Investing, Wealth Creation - Tags: Index Funds When it comes to investing, simplicity and cost-efficiency are key. That’s why index funds have become a go-to option for Australians looking to grow their wealth. Your Ultimate Guide to Index Funds in Australia: What They Are & How to Invest Published 09/01/2025 | Last Updated 07/05/2025 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice When it comes to investing, simplicity and cost-efficiency are key. That’s why index funds have become a go-to option for Australians looking to grow their wealth over time. Whether you're a first-time investor or someone with experience, index funds offer a straightforward way to achieve diversification and long-term returns. This guide will explain what index funds are, the differences between ETFs and index funds, and why they’re an ideal investment for Australians. We’ll also highlight popular options like the vanguard high growth index fund, vanguard international shares index fund, and ASX 200 index funds. Table of Contents What Are Index Funds? An index fund is a type of investment fund that tracks the performance of a specific market index. For example:The ASX 200 index fund mirrors the performance of the top 200 companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. The S&P 500 index fund replicates the performance of the largest 500 companies in the US. Unlike actively managed funds, where fund managers try to beat the market, index funds aim to match market performance. This passive approach keeps costs low and provides consistent, long-term returns. Key Features of Index Funds:Diversification: By investing in an index fund, your money is spread across hundreds of stocks. Low Fees: Index funds typically charge lower fees than actively managed funds, such as the Vanguard low-cost index funds. Simplicity: Ideal for those new to investing or those who prefer a hands-off approach. How Do Index Funds Work? Before diving into how index funds work, it’s important to understand what a market index is. A market index is like a “scorecard” for the stock market. It measures the performance of a group of stocks or bonds that represent a specific market or sector. For example:The ASX 200 tracks the top 200 companies on the Australian Stock Exchange. The S&P 500 tracks the 500 largest companies in the US. An index fund is designed to copy the performance of one of these market indexes. It does this in two ways:Full Replication: The fund buys every stock included in the index. For example, if the index tracks 500 companies, the fund will buy shares in all 500. Partial Replication: Instead of buying every stock, the fund selects a smaller group of stocks that behave similarly to the index overall. Example:If you invest in an S&P 500 index fund, you’re effectively buying a small piece of 500 of the biggest companies in the US, like Apple (technology), Pfizer (healthcare), and JP Morgan (finance). Why Choose Index Funds in Australia? Australia’s financial market is uniquely positioned to offer a range of index fund options that cater to different investment needs. Whether you’re focused on domestic opportunities or looking to diversify globally, index funds Australia provide an ideal solution. Here are the key advantages: Exposure to Australian Markets The ASX 200 index fund is one... --- > So, what is salary sacrificing? Learn its benefits, how it works, and how it helps with superannuation, car leases, and more in this guide. - Published: 2025-01-07 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/salary-sacrificing-explained-save-on-tax-achieve-your-goals/ - Categories: Wealth Creation - Tags: Salary Sacrificing Imagine saving on taxes while funding your retirement, leasing a car, or even reducing your living expenses — all by making better use of your pre-tax salary. Unlock the Benefits of Salary Sacrificing: How It Works and What You Need to Know Published 06/01/2025 | Last Updated 08/05/2025 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Imagine saving on taxes while funding your retirement, leasing a car, or even reducing your living expenses — all by making better use of your pre-tax salary. Salary sacrificing, sometimes referred to as "salary sacrifice," is a tool that allows you to reduce your taxable income while accessing perks that align with your financial goals. But what is it exactly, and how can you use it to your advantage? Let’s break it down. Table of Contents What Is Salary Sacrificing? Salary sacrificing is an arrangement where you and your employer agree to redirect part of your pre-tax income towards certain benefits. These benefits can include additional superannuation contributions, leasing a car, or even paying for work-related expenses. The advantage? You reduce your taxable income, which means paying less tax. In Australia, salary sacrificing is widely used, particularly for superannuation and novated car leases. It’s worth considering for anyone looking to maximise their income and benefits. How Does Salary Sacrificing Work? The process of salary sacrificing starts with an agreement between you and your employer. You nominate a portion of your pre-tax income to go directly towards certain benefits, such as super contributions or a car lease. Here's An Example: If your annual income is $80,000 and you salary sacrifice $10,000 towards super, your taxable income becomes $70,000. This could mean paying less tax while increasing your super balance. It’s important to note that not all benefits are treated the same — some may attract fringe benefits tax (FBT), while others, like super contributions, don’t. Benefits of Salary Sacrificing Salary sacrificing offers numerous benefits, including:Tax Savings: By reducing your taxable income, you pay less tax. Convenience: Your employer handles the deductions, so you don’t have to manage payments yourself. Financial Goals: Salary sacrificing can help you save for retirement, afford a car, or invest in your career development. For many, the question is whether it’s worth it. When used strategically, salary sacrificing can be a powerful financial tool. Understanding Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) While salary sacrificing offers many perks, it’s essential to understand Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) and how it affects your arrangements. What Is FBT? FBT is a tax employers pay on certain benefits provided to employees (or their associates) instead of salary. While the employer pays FBT, the cost often flows through to employees as part of their package. What Is FBT? Certain items, like super contributions and work-related devices, are exempt from FBT, making them highly beneficial for salary sacrificing. Understanding FBT ensures you can make the most of your salary sacrifice while avoiding unexpected costs. Want to Make Salary Sacrificing Work for You? Get personalised advice to help you boost your super, reduce tax, and make the most of your income. Your first consult comes at no cost. START NOW What Can Be Salary Sacrificed? Salary sacrificing isn’t limited to superannuation... --- > Not sure what to do with inheritance money in Australia? Get practical tips on saving, investing, and managing your inheritance wisely. - Published: 2024-12-05 - Modified: 2025-05-07 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/what-to-do-with-inheritance-money-australia/ - Categories: Estate Planning, Investing, Wealth Creation - Tags: Inheritance Inheriting money, property, or investments can be life-changing. While it provides opportunities for financial growth, it can also feel overwhelming if you’re unsure of what steps to take. Whether you’re wondering what to do with an inherited house, how to invest inheritance money, or how to handle debts, this guide will provide practical, detailed advice to help you make confident decisions. What to Do with an Inheritance: A Practical Guide Published 19/11/2024 | Last Updated 7/5/2025 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Inheriting money, property, or investments can be life-changing. While it provides opportunities for financial growth, it can also feel overwhelming if you’re unsure of what steps to take. Whether you’re wondering what to do with an inherited house, how to invest inheritance money, or how to handle debts, this guide will provide practical, detailed advice to help you make confident decisions. Table of Contents Take Your Time: Don’t Rush Into Decisions The immediate aftermath of receiving an inheritance can feel emotional and overwhelming. You may feel pressure to act quickly, especially if you’ve inherited significant assets or if others are offering advice. However, rushing into decisions about inheritance money, property, or investments can lead to mistakes you regret later. Why Taking Time Matters:Emotional decisions often result in selling or spending assets without fully understanding their value or impact. For example, selling an inherited property too quickly might trigger Capital Gains Tax (CGT) or miss out on long-term financial opportunities. Grieving can cloud judgment, and it’s important to allow yourself time to process your emotions before tackling financial matters. Practical Advice:Pause before making major financial moves. Create a “holding account” for cash inheritances, giving yourself time to research options before investing or spending. Discuss your situation with a trusted friend, family member, or adviser who can offer perspective. Get Support Inheriting assets is both a financial and emotional responsibility. Seeking the right support can help you manage the pressure and avoid common pitfalls. Emotional Support: Share your feelings with trusted family members, friends, or a grief counsellor. They can help you navigate the emotions that come with loss and responsibility. Professional Support: For larger or more complex inheritances, working with a financial adviser, tax accountant, and estate lawyer can save you from costly mistakes. These professionals can guide you through areas like tax implications, investment strategies, and the legal aspects of inheritance. Avoid Rash Decisions It’s easy to feel pressure to act quickly — selling a house, paying off debts, or making big purchases. Rushing can lead to decisions you might regret. Instead, take the time to assess your options carefully. What We’ve Learned from Helping Others At our practice, we’ve helped countless Australians manage their inheritances, and we’ve observed common mistakes. Many people feel compelled to act too quickly, leading to choices they later regret. Selling inherited property immediately without understanding financial implications, such as CGT. Impulse spending on large purchases, like cars or holidays, which leave little for long-term financial goals. Keeping underperforming investments out of sentimentality or fear of change. An inheritance can feel like a windfall, but it’s also a long-term responsibility. By pausing, planning, and seeking advice, you can avoid these mistakes, make informed decisions, and honour your loved one’s legacy. Tax Implications of Inheriting Money, Property, or Investments Taxes are a significant concern for Australians managing an inheritance. Understanding the rules can help you avoid... --- > Learn how to reduce taxable income in Australia with 9 proven strategies like salary sacrificing, investment deductions, and debt recycling. - Published: 2024-11-22 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/how-to-reduce-taxable-income-as-a-high-income-earner-in-australia/ - Categories: Investing, Wealth Creation - Tags: High-Income, Reduce Taxable Income What’s keeping high-income earners from turning their salaries into lifelong wealth? And more importantly, how can you break free? Let’s start by understanding the challenges and then dive into practical steps to transform your financial reality. High-Income Earner? Learn How You Can Reduce Your Taxable Income Published 19/11/2024 | Last Updated 27/11/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice For high-income earners in Australia, managing taxes can feel like an uphill battle. You’ve worked hard to reach your level of success, but the reality of Australia’s progressive tax system means a significant chunk of your income goes straight to the government. The higher your income, the higher the tax burden, leaving many high earners wondering, "Is there any way to keep more of what I earn? "The good news is, there are legal and effective strategies to reduce taxable income that offer other advantages. From salary sacrificing to debt recycling, this guide explores proven methods that can help you minimise taxes and build lasting wealth. Table of Contents Why Tax Planning Matters for High-Income Earners High-income earners face unique challenges when it comes to managing their finances. While your income may place you in the top tax brackets, lifestyle pressures and poor tax planning can erode the benefits of earning well. Without a proactive strategy, many high earners miss opportunities to legally reduce their taxable income and grow their wealth. James’ Tax Dilemma: A Common High-Income Struggle Take James, for example. James earns $220,000 a year as a senior project manager. On the surface, he’s doing incredibly well — living in a great home, taking family holidays, and driving the car he always dreamed of. But at tax time, James finds himself frustrated. His taxable income places him in one of the highest brackets, and he feels like half of his hard work disappears before it even hits his bank account. James isn’t alone. Many high-income earners find themselves in a similar position, unaware of the strategies available to them. With a little knowledge and planning, James could reduce his taxable income, save thousands of dollars, and redirect those savings into building long-term financial security. Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until Tax Time For many high-income earners, tax planning only becomes a priority as the end of the financial year (EOFY) approaches. It’s easy to put off thinking about tax strategies until deadlines are looming, but by then, you’ve missed months of opportunities to save. The truth is, effective tax-saving requires a proactive, year-round approach. By integrating strategies like salary sacrificing, super contributions, and investment planning into your financial routine early, you can spread the benefits throughout the year — and avoid the stress of scrambling at the last minute. What Happens When You Wait Until EOFY? Missed Opportunities: You may lose the chance to make the most of annual caps, like concessional super contributions. Limited Cash Flow: Large last-minute contributions or investments can strain your finances unnecessarily. Rushed Decisions: Hastily implemented strategies are more likely to result in mistakes or missed benefits. Building Your Year-round Tax Strategy Think of tax planning as a marathon, not a sprint. By reviewing your finances regularly and working with a financial adviser, you can:Identify areas for improvement early. Spread out contributions and... --- > Learn how to turn a six-figure salary into lifelong wealth, with strategies to tackle lifestyle inflation and embrace FIRE principles. - Published: 2024-11-19 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/how-to-turn-a-six-figure-salary-into-lifelong-wealth/ - Categories: Investing, Wealth Creation - Tags: Financial Independence Retire Early, FIRE, HENRY, High Earner Not Rich Yet What’s keeping high-income earners from turning their salaries into lifelong wealth? And more importantly, how can you break free? Let’s start by understanding the challenges and then dive into practical steps to transform your financial reality. How to Turn a Six-Figure Salary into Lifelong Wealth: The HENRY Dilemma Published 19/11/2024 | Last Updated 08/05/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice There’s a particular irony about being a high-income earner that doesn’t get talked about often. You’ve worked hard to secure a six-figure salary, and from the outside, life looks great. You’ve got the home, the car, the holidays. But when you check your bank balance or think about the future, there’s an unsettling realisation: Where’s all the money gone? If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. This scenario is so common that it has a name—HENRY, or “High Earner, Not Rich Yet. ” HENRYs are living proof that income and wealth aren’t the same thing. While they might be in the top tax brackets, many HENRYs feel stuck on a financial treadmill, earning plenty but not building any real safety net. So, what’s keeping high-income earners from turning their salaries into lifelong wealth? And more importantly, how can you break free? Let’s start by understanding the challenges and then dive into practical steps to transform your financial reality. Table of Contents What Makes a HENRY? The term “HENRY” was first coined by Fortune Magazine, and it captures a phenomenon that’s more widespread than you might think. HENRYs are the quintessential high-income earners who seem to have it all — except actual wealth. They earn enough to enjoy the finer things in life but often have little to show for it in terms of financial security. Take Alex, for example. Alex earns a six-figure salary and has the lifestyle to match: a beautiful home, a luxury car, and regular holidays to idyllic destinations. But beneath the surface, Alex feels financially vulnerable. Despite the income, there’s no real wealth to fall back on, and the thought of unexpected expenses or retirement brings a pang of anxiety. While it might seem like Alex’s situation is rare, it’s actually exceedingly common. Many high-income earners face similar struggles, especially those who started with no financial assistance — no inheritance, no safety net, and no early guidance on how to manage or grow wealth. Alex’s story reflects a broader trend among people who’ve worked hard to achieve their current income but feel stuck in a financial cycle of maintaining appearances rather than building long-term security. This cycle often stems from the pressures of lifestyle inflation, rising expenses, and the challenge of balancing current comforts with future goals. It’s a stark reminder that earning a high salary is just the starting point — it’s how you manage and grow that income that truly counts. Now let's meet Sarah. Sarah is another high-income earner, but one who’s taken a very different approach. Inspired by the FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement, Sarah resisted the pull of lifestyle inflation. Instead of upgrading her lifestyle with every raise, she saved aggressively and invested her surplus income. Her goal wasn’t just to enjoy life now but to create a foundation for financial independence. Alex and Sarah highlight the... --- > Learn about using super to buy an investment property with an SMSF. Explore the pros, cons, and key considerations for this strategy. - Published: 2024-11-06 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/using-super-to-buy-an-investment-property/ - Categories: Investing, Retirement Planning - Tags: Self-managed Super Funds, SMSF Thinking about using your superannuation to invest in property? With an SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund), it’s possible to purchase investment properties directly. However, there are specific rules and considerations, as well as unique benefits, that come with this approach. Investing in Property with Super? Here's Everything You Need to Know Published 6/11/2024 | Last Updated 6/11/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Thinking about using your superannuation to invest in property? With an SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund), it’s possible to purchase investment properties directly. However, there are specific rules and considerations, as well as positives and negatives, that come with this approach. In this article, we’ll explore how SMSF property investment works, what to watch out for, and how it might fit into your broader financial goals. Table of Contents Can I Use My SMSF to Buy Investment Property? Yes, you can! An SMSF allows you to pool your superannuation funds and invest in a variety of assets, including property. This flexibility means that you could buy an investment property with your super to generate rental income or capital gains, giving you control over where your super is invested. The Benefits of SMSF Property InvestmentUsing your SMSF to invest in property comes with potential benefits:Greater Control: With an SMSF, you decide how and where to invest your super. Potential for Growth: Investing in property can offer rental income and potential capital growth over time. Tax Advantages: Earnings within your SMSF, such as rental income or capital gains, are taxed at a concessional rate of 15% (or 10% for capital gains on assets held for more than 12 months). However, keep in mind that there are also strict rules around SMSF property investments, so it’s essential to know what you’re getting into. Potential Downsides of SMSF Property InvestmentWhile SMSF property investment has its benefits, it’s not without drawbacks:Higher Setup and Ongoing Costs: Establishing an SMSF and managing property within it can be costly, with fees for setup, compliance, audits, and maintenance. Limited Access to Cash: Since property is a less liquid asset, it may be challenging to access funds quickly if your SMSF needs cash for other investments or expenses. Complex Regulations: SMSF property investments are subject to strict regulations, including the need for arm's-length transactions and limits on improvements to properties with borrowed funds. Potential for Financial Loss: Property values can fluctuate, and investing a significant portion of your super in one asset class could expose your retirement savings to more risk. These potential downsides mean it’s crucial to carefully consider whether SMSF property investment aligns with your retirement goals and risk tolerance. Consulting with financial and legal professionals can help you weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Can I Use My Super to Buy a Home to Live In? Generally, superannuation is intended for your retirement, so there are strict rules about accessing it for personal use. Outside of the FHSSS, using your regular super fund to buy a house to live in is not permitted. However, if you are thinking of purchasing property for investment through your super, that's where a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) comes in. With an SMSF, you can invest in property, but the property can only be used as an investment—it... --- > Curious about using your super to buy a house? Learn how the First Home Super Saver Scheme and Self-Managed Super Funds can help. - Published: 2024-11-06 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/can-i-use-my-super-to-buy-a-house/ - Categories: Investing, Retirement Planning - Tags: Superannuation Using your super to buy a house is a topic that sparks a lot of interest, especially for those thinking about homeownership or diversifying their investment portfolio. But can you really buy a house with your super? The answer is yes, but with some important conditions and rules. Can You Use Your Super to Buy a House? Here's Everything You Need to Know Published 6/11/2024 | Last Updated 08/05/2025 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Using your super to buy a house is a topic that sparks a lot of interest, especially for those thinking about homeownership or diversifying their investment portfolio. But can you really buy a house with your super? The answer is yes, but with some important conditions and rules. In this article, we'll walk through the options available to Australians wanting to use their super for property, including the First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS) for first-time buyers, and Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) for property investors. Table of Contents Using Your Super to Buy Your First Home If you're a first-time homebuyer, the First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS) could be an option for you. While you can’t directly buy a house with your super, the FHSSS allows you to access a portion of your super to help you save for a house deposit. Here’s how it works:You make extra contributions into your superannuation fund. You can then withdraw those voluntary contributions (along with earnings) when you're ready to buy your first home. This can be a good strategy if you’re wondering, “Can I use my super to buy a house? ” The FHSSS provides a way to leverage your super to support your home purchase without depleting your retirement savings. However, it’s only available for first-home buyers looking to buy a home to live in — not for investment purposes. Can I Use My Super to Buy a Home to Live In? Generally, superannuation is intended for your retirement, so there are strict rules about accessing it for personal use. Outside of the FHSSS, using your regular super fund to buy a house to live in is not permitted. However, if you are thinking of purchasing property for investment through your super, that's where a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) comes in. With an SMSF, you can invest in property, but the property can only be used as an investment — it cannot be a residence for you or any related parties. Buying Investment Property with an SMSF For those interested in property investment, an SMSF could be the answer to “How can I use my super to buy a house? ” By setting up an SMSF, you can use your super to buy an investment property, whether residential or commercial. However, there are some key rules:The property must be solely for investment purposes. You, your family members, or any related parties cannot live in the property. All transactions must meet the “sole purpose test” — meaning that the SMSF property should only benefit your retirement savings. You can also use SMSF loans to purchase a property, allowing you to leverage your super balance. If you’re thinking about buying property with superannuation, this approach can give you control over property investments within your super. Unsure if You’re on Track for Retirement? We take the guesswork... --- > Understand estate taxes and capital gains on deceased estates in Australia. Learn how to protect your assets with smart estate planning. - Published: 2024-10-22 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/death-and-taxes-navigating-estate-taxes-in-australia/ - Categories: Estate Planning - Tags: Estate Taxes They say there are only two certainties in life: death and taxes. While we can't escape either, understanding estate taxes in Australia can help you navigate the financial landscape that follows when someone passes away. Death and Taxes: Navigating Estate Taxes in Australia Published 16/10/2024 | Last Updated 16/10/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice They say there are only two certainties in life: death and taxes. While we can't escape either, understanding estate taxes in Australia can help you navigate the financial landscape that follows when someone passes away. Although Australia abolished its federal death tax decades ago, estate taxes and capital gains taxes can still apply in some circumstances, especially on deceased estates. Let’s break down what you need to know about estate taxes in Australia, from inheritance tax to capital gains tax on inherited property. Table of Contents The Abolition of Death Taxes in Australia Australia abolished its death tax at the federal level in 1979. Prior to this, the government levied death duties on estates based on their size, which significantly reduced what beneficiaries could inherit. Death duties were considered a major financial burden on families already dealing with the emotional weight of loss. The removal came after strong public opposition and political campaigns arguing that the tax unfairly penalised ordinary families. Today, while there’s no federal death tax, other taxes, particularly capital gains tax (CGT), can still apply depending on the types of assets being transferred in a deceased estate. What Is Estate Tax in Australia? Australia doesn’t have a traditional estate tax (sometimes referred to as death tax), which is a tax on the total value of someone's estate when they die. In fact, the federal death tax was abolished back in 1979. This means that when someone passes away, their beneficiaries typically don’t have to pay a death tax on their inheritance. However, that doesn’t mean beneficiaries are entirely off the hook. Capital gains tax (CGT) and other taxes can still apply in certain situations. The term "estate tax" might still pop up because people use it to refer to the taxes that could apply when transferring property or investments from a deceased estate to beneficiaries. Capital Gains Tax and Deceased Estates One of the biggest concerns with estate taxes in Australia is capital gains tax on deceased estates. CGT applies to the sale of assets that have appreciated in value since they were acquired. When someone inherits a property or shares, CGT could apply if they decide to sell those assets later. Here’s the kicker: if you inherit property that has increased in value since the original owner bought it, you could be liable for capital gains tax on the difference between the original purchase price and the sale price, unless it was the deceased's primary residence, in which case special exemptions may apply. This can be a significant issue if you’re dealing with substantial assets, such as an investment property or shares from a deceased estate. Tax Implications of a Deceased Estate While there’s no formal estate tax in Australia, several taxes could still come into play:Capital Gains Tax (CGT): As mentioned, you may need to pay CGT when selling inherited assets. Deceased Estate Income Tax Return:... --- > Ready to retire? Learn how to achieve early retirement in Australia with practical steps, financial strategies, and benefits in this guide. - Published: 2024-10-17 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/the-path-to-early-retirement-balancing-financial-independence-and-lifestyle/ - Categories: Retirement Planning - Tags: Early Retirement Retiring early is a dream for many, offering the chance to spend more time doing what you love without being tied to work. But making that dream a reality requires careful planning. From saving and investing to managing risks, early retirement brings a unique set of challenges and rewards. The Path to Early Retirement: Balancing Financial Independence and Lifestyle Published 16/10/2024 | Last Updated 16/10/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Retiring early is a dream for many, offering the chance to spend more time doing what you love without being tied to work. But making that dream a reality requires careful planning. From saving and investing to managing risks, early retirement brings a unique set of challenges and rewards. In this article, we'll explore key strategies for financial independence and early retirement, and how you can set yourself up for long-term success in Australia. Table of Contents What is Early Retirement? Early retirement has become a growing trend in Australia, with more people aiming to leave the workforce earlier than the traditional retirement age. The appeal of financial independence and the freedom to pursue personal goals are driving factors for many. One popular movement that's gained significant traction is FIRE—Financial Independence, Retire Early. This philosophy encourages people to save and invest aggressively so they can achieve financial independence and retire early. Why Early Retirement Is Gaining Popularity More freedom and flexibility: People want to break away from the traditional 9-to-5 structure. Focus on financial independence: The goal is to create enough wealth to cover living expenses without needing to work. The FIRE Movement: Financial Independence, Retire Early The FIRE movement, short for Financial Independence, Retire Early, is gaining popularity among those who aim to retire well before the traditional retirement age. The concept of FIRE revolves around saving aggressively—sometimes up to 70% of your income—and making smart investments to build wealth quickly. The ultimate goal is to accumulate enough assets that you can live off your investments, giving you the freedom to retire early and live life on your own terms. Key Principles of FIRE: Aggressive Saving: Individuals pursuing FIRE often save a large portion of their income, sometimes up to 50-70%. Smart Investing: Growing wealth through investments such as shares, property, and other financial assets plays a major role in achieving financial independence. Frugal Living: Many in the FIRE community focus on cutting unnecessary expenses to reach their financial goals sooner. Pros and Cons of the FIRE Movement: Pros:Financial freedom and the ability to retire early. More time to pursue personal interests, travel, and spend time with loved ones, which is better for your happiness in retirement. Security in knowing you're financially independent. Cons:Requires a high level of discipline and sacrifice, often for many years. May lead to a frugal lifestyle, potentially limiting your enjoyment in the present. Economic factors like market volatility could impact your early retirement plans. If you're intrigued by the FIRE movement, it's important to speak with a financial advisor to develop a plan that suits your lifestyle and long-term goals. Achieving financial independence and retiring early can be rewarding, but it needs careful consideration and planning. The Growing Trend of Retiring Early While the desire to retire early has been around for generations, there’s been a noticeable increase in people actually making it... --- > Discover smart retirement investment strategies to help secure your future. Explore options like annuities, shares, property, and more. - Published: 2024-10-16 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/smart-retirement-investments-choosing-the-right-options-for-your-future/ - Categories: Retirement Planning - Tags: Retirement Investments Planning for your retirement is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make. It’s not just about setting aside money for the future — it’s about finding the right investments to help you live comfortably, enjoy your retirement, and not outlive your savings. Retirement Investment Strategies: Find the Best Options for A Better Retirement Published 16/10/2024 | Last Updated 16/10/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Planning for your retirement is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make. It’s not just about setting aside money for the future — it’s about finding the right investments to help you live comfortably, enjoy your retirement, and not outlive your savings. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular investment options for retirement, outline key strategies, and offer insights on how to choose the right mix of investments that fit your personal goals. Table of Contents Why Investing for Retirement Matters Investing for retirement is essential for securing your financial future and maintaining your lifestyle as you move away from full-time work. With increasing life expectancies, many people spend 20 to 30 years in retirement. This means your savings need to last—and potentially continue growing—throughout this period. The right investment strategy can help:Grow your wealth: Investments have the potential to generate returns that help your savings grow faster than inflation. Provide income: Many investment options offer regular income streams, which can supplement your superannuation or pension. Protect your capital: A diversified investment portfolio can help protect your hard-earned savings from market downturns. Popular Investment Options for Retirement When it comes to retirement investing, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best strategy depends on your risk tolerance, time horizon, and retirement goals. Below, we’ll look at some of the most common types of investments used for retirement, along with their pros and cons. 1. Stocks and Shares Stocks, or shares, represent ownership in a company. When you buy shares, you become a part-owner of that business, which means you can benefit from its growth and profitability. Pros:Growth potential: Stocks offer higher returns over the long term compared to most other investments. Dividend income: Some companies pay dividends, providing a regular income stream. Cons:Volatility: Stock prices can fluctuate significantly in the short term. Market risk: Stocks are influenced by market conditions, which can lead to potential losses. 2. Bonds and Fixed Income Bonds are essentially loans you give to a company or government. In return, they pay you interest over time, and you receive the principal amount back at the end of the term. Pros:Stable income: Bonds offer predictable interest payments. Lower risk: Bonds are generally less volatile than stocks. Cons:Lower returns: Bonds typically offer lower returns compared to stocks. Interest rate risk: Rising interest rates can reduce the value of existing bonds. 3. Superannuation Super is a tax-effective way to save for retirement. Contributions to your super fund are invested in a variety of assets, including shares, bonds, and property, allowing your savings to grow over time. Pros:Tax benefits: Super contributions and earnings are taxed at a lower rate. Employer contributions: Your employer adds to your super, increasing your savings. Cons:Access restrictions: You can’t access your super until you reach preservation age. Market risk: Your super investments are subject to market fluctuations. 4. Annuities An... --- > We explain how downsizing for retirement and the downsizer contribution can boost your super and help you save on taxes. - Published: 2024-10-11 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/downsizing-for-retirement-a-guide-to-the-downsizer-contribution/ - Categories: Retirement Planning - Tags: Downsizing Thinking about downsizing as you head into retirement? You’re not alone. Many Australians choose to downsize their homes to make the most of their savings and enjoy a simpler lifestyle. But what does downsizing really mean, and how can it impact your financial situation? Downsizing in Retirement: Benefits, Rules, and Downsizer Contributions Published 10/10/2024 | Last Updated 10/10/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Thinking about downsizing as you head into retirement? You’re not alone. Many Australians choose to downsize their homes to make the most of their savings and enjoy a simpler lifestyle. But what does downsizing really mean, and how can it impact your financial situation? In simple terms, downsizing means moving to a smaller home or a more affordable property. It can free up some cash, reduce your living expenses, and even offer a fresh start in a new location. For many, downsizing for retirement is a smart way to stretch their savings further and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. But there’s a lot more to consider, from making a downsizer contribution to understanding the downsizer contribution rules. In this guide, we’ll break down the key things you need to know about downsizing in Australia and how to make it work for you. Table of Contents Why Consider Downsizing? Downsizing offers several benefits that can improve your retirement lifestyle and finances. Here’s why many retirees choose to take this path. Financial Flexibility: Downsizing your home can release funds that you can use to boost your savings or pay off debts. It can be particularly helpful if you’re looking to become mortgage-free. Lower Maintenance: A smaller home means less upkeep, fewer repairs, and lower utility bills, which can make life much easier in retirement. Decluttering and Simplifying: Moving to a smaller home often means decluttering — an opportunity to let go of what you don’t need and focus on what really matters. It’s a key part of downsizing and decluttering. Potential Tax Benefits: There’s also the opportunity to make a downsizer contribution to your super, which can have financial advantages. We’ll explore that in more detail later on. Downsizer Contribution: What Is It? A downsizer contribution allows eligible Australians to put up to $300,000 from the sale of their home into their superannuation. This is designed to give retirees a way to boost their super balance, using funds released from downsizing. Key points about the downsizer super contribution:You need to be over 55 to be eligible (as of the latest rules). The home you sell must have been owned for at least 10 years. You can make a downsizer contribution even if your super balance is above the usual limits. Couples can contribute up to $300,000 each, potentially adding up to $600,000 to their super. This is a great way to ensure that any extra money from selling your home works towards your long-term financial security. The ATO downsizer contribution rules provide more detailed guidance on how this works. Eligibility and Age Requirements Before you make a downsizer contribution, you’ll need to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria:Age Requirement: You must be over 55 years old. Ownership Period: You must have owned the home for at least 10 years before selling it. Use of Funds: The contribution needs to be made within 90... --- > Learn how the age pension income and assets tests work in Australia, including eligibility, limits, and tips to maximise your benefits. - Published: 2024-10-10 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/understanding-the-age-pension-assets-and-income-tests-in-australia/ - Categories: Retirement Planning - Tags: Aged Pension Assets Test If you’re planning for retirement or already enjoying it, the age pension can be a lifeline to help cover your living expenses. We cover everything you need to know to understand how your assets and income can impact your pension payments. Understanding the Age Pension Assets and Income Tests in Australia Published 10/10/2024 | Last Updated 10/10/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice If you’re planning for retirement or already enjoying it, the age pension can be a lifeline to help cover your living expenses. But understanding how Centrelink calculates your payments can be a bit like navigating a maze. The two key tests that determine your eligibility — the assets test and the income test — are worth getting to know, because their outcome will determine how much pension you're entitled to receive. So, let's break them down in a way that makes sense! Table of Contents What Is the Age Pension Assets Test? The age pension assets test is basically Centrelink’s way of checking out what you own and determining how it might impact your pension payments. It’s not just about cash in the bank; it includes everything from investment properties to your car, shares, and even collectibles. But don’t worry—your family home isn’t included. How the Assets Test Affects Your Pension Here’s the deal: if you’ve got assets beyond a certain threshold, your pension payments can be reduced. The more you own (excluding your main residence), the less you might receive. Thresholds and Limits: The cut-off points are different depending on whether you're single or part of a couple, and whether you own your home. Staying under these limits can mean a full pension, while going over means a reduced payment. Every Dollar Counts: For every $1,000 that you go over the threshold, your pension drops by $3 every fortnight. Quick Look at the Current Assets Test Limits As of 2024, the assets test limits vary depending on your living situation and whether you are single or part of a couple. Here’s a summary:Single Homeowners: Asset limit up to $280,000 for the full pension. Single Non-Homeowners: Asset limit up to $504,500 for the full pension. Couple Homeowners: Combined asset limit up to $419,000. Couple Non-Homeowners: Combined asset limit up to $643,500. For a part pension, the asset limits are a bit higher:Single Homeowners: Up to $634,750. Single Non-Homeowners: Up to $859,250. Couple Homeowners: Up to $954,000 combined. Couple Non-Homeowners: Up to $1,178,500 combined. If your assets are above these limits, you’ll see a reduction in your pension payments. Keep an eye on those numbers to avoid surprises! Full Pension Asset Limits Single Homeowners: Asset limit up to $301,750 for the full pension, with payments reducing if assets exceed this amount. Single Non-Homeowners: Asset limit up to $543,750 for the full pension. Couple Homeowners: Combined asset limit up to $451,500. Couple Non-Homeowners: Combined asset limit up to $693,500. The value of your assets is assessed to determine how much pension you can receive. If your assets exceed these limits for the part pension, you may no longer be eligible for age pension payments. How the Age Pension Income Test Works Now, let’s chat about the income test. This test looks at any money you’ve got coming in regularly — think... --- > Learn about unit trusts in Australia, their benefits, structure, and key differences Get expert insights on when to use a unit trust. - Published: 2024-09-27 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/understanding-unit-trusts-in-australia-benefits-setup-and-key-differences/ - Categories: Estate Planning, Investing, Wealth Creation - Tags: Unit Trusts Learn about unit trusts in Australia, their benefits, structure, and key differences from other trusts. Get expert insights on setting up and managing unit trusts effectively. Unit Trusts: Benefits, Setup, and Key Differences Published 24/09/2024 | Last Updated 24/09/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice A unit trust is a popular investment structure in Australia, often used for holding assets or managing investments on behalf of multiple beneficiaries. If you’re seeking a way to pool investments, manage risks, or take advantage of tax benefits, a unit trust might be an ideal solution. But what exactly is a unit trust, and how does it differ from other trust structures? Whether you’re new to trusts or exploring the benefits of setting one up, it’s essential to understand how unit trusts operate and why they’re often chosen for investment and wealth management. In this guide, we’ll break down the key features of a unit trust, explain how it contrasts with discretionary and family trusts, and explore when a unit trust might be the best option for your financial strategy. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of how a unit trust works, when to use it, and how it could help you reach your financial or investment goals. Table of Contents What is a Unit Trust? A unit trust is a type of investment structure where funds are pooled together from various investors to invest in assets such as property, shares, or other securities. Unlike a discretionary trust, where the trustee has discretion in distributing income, a unit trust distributes income and capital based on the number of units each investor holds. This structure makes unit trusts more transparent and predictable, allowing each investor to receive their share of profits relative to their investment. In Australia, unit trusts are widely used for investment purposes, as they provide a way for individuals and companies to pool their resources and invest in larger or more diversified portfolios than they might manage individually. Key characteristics of unit trusts include:Defined units of ownership, which represent an investor’s share in the trust. Income distribution based on the number of units held by each investor. Defined roles for the trustee, who manages the trust, and the unitholders, who benefit from the trust. This structure is commonly used in property investments, mutual funds, and other pooled investment vehicles. Why Use a Unit Trust? People set up unit trusts for a variety of reasons, including:Investment Flexibility: Unit trusts allow for easy pooling of funds from multiple investors, making them an excellent vehicle for managing larger investment portfolios. Each investor holds "units," representing their share in the trust, giving them proportional ownership of the assets. Risk Management: By spreading investments across different asset classes or sectors, unit trusts help investors manage risk. The ability to diversify helps protect against the volatility of a single investment and balances the overall portfolio. Transparency and Accountability: Unit trusts operate with clear guidelines on how returns are distributed to unit holders. Investors benefit from transparent reporting on income and capital gains, which makes it easier to track the performance of the investment. Tax Efficiency: Unit trusts offer tax advantages, as income and... --- > Learn how discretionary trusts work in Australia, their benefits for asset protection and tax planning, and when to use one. - Published: 2024-09-23 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/understanding-discretionary-trusts-what-you-need-to-know/ - Categories: Estate Planning, Investing, Wealth Creation - Tags: Discretionary Trusts What exactly is a discretionary trust, and how does it work? Whether you’re considering setting one up for the first time or just want to understand its advantages, it’s important to know how these trusts operate and the potential tax benefits they offer. Discretionary Trusts in Australia: What You Need to Know Published 24/09/2024 | Last Updated 24/09/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice A discretionary trust is one of the most flexible and commonly used trust structures in Australia, offering significant benefits for both individuals and businesses. If you’re looking to manage wealth, protect your assets, or plan your estate, a discretionary trust can be a powerful tool. But what exactly is a discretionary trust, and how does it work? Whether you’re considering setting one up for the first time or just want to understand its advantages, it’s important to know how these trusts operate and the potential tax benefits they offer. In this guide, we’ll break down the key features of a discretionary trust, explain how it differs from other trust structures (like fixed and unit trusts), and explore why so many Australians choose this option for both personal and business purposes. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether a discretionary trust might be the right solution for your financial or estate planning needs. Table of Contents What is a Discretionary Trust? A discretionary trust (sometimes referred to as a discretionary family trust) is a type of trust where the trustee has the power to decide how the income or capital of the trust is distributed among the beneficiaries. This makes it more flexible compared to a fixed trust, where the beneficiaries have set entitlements. The flexibility of a discretionary trust can be a key benefit when used for tax planning and asset protection. For those looking for control over how their wealth is passed on, this structure offers a clear advantage. Why Use a Discretionary Trust? People set up discretionary trusts for a range of reasons, including:Asset protection: Assets held in a discretionary trust, including those under a discretionary investment trust or a testamentary discretionary trust, are generally protected from creditors or legal claims. Tax planning: Trustees can distribute income to beneficiaries in lower tax brackets, which can help reduce the overall tax burden for a family or business. Estate planning: A discretionary trust, including the testamentary discretionary trust, can ensure assets are passed on to future generations in a structured and controlled way. How Does a Discretionary Trust Work in Australia? Here’s a quick breakdown of how a discretionary trust operates:The Settlor: This is the person who sets up the trust and contributes a small initial amount to start the trust. The Trustee: The trustee manages the assets in the trust and decides how and when to distribute income or capital to the beneficiaries. In some cases, this might be part of a discretionary trading trust, where the trust owns a business or generates income. The Beneficiaries: These are the individuals or entities who may receive benefits from the trust, but they have no automatic entitlement. It's up to the trustee to decide how much they receive and when. Discretionary Trust vs Fixed Trust: What's the Difference? Unlike a fixed trust, where beneficiaries have a set share... --- > Discover how a family trust protects your wealth while offering asset protection and tax benefits for current and future generations. - Published: 2024-09-18 - Modified: 2025-05-16 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/understanding-family-trusts-are-they-the-right-choice/ - Categories: Estate Planning, Investing, Wealth Creation - Tags: Family Trusts If you’re thinking about setting up a family trust, you’re probably looking for a way to protect your family’s assets and ensure they’re passed down smoothly to the next generation. It’s a big decision, and getting it right can make all the difference to your financial future. Is a Family Trust Right for Your Situation? Published 16/09/2024 | Last Updated 16/09/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice If you’re thinking about setting up a family trust, you’re probably looking for a way to protect your family’s assets and ensure they’re passed down smoothly to the next generation. It’s a big decision, and getting it right can make all the difference to your financial future. A family trust isn’t just for the super-wealthy. It’s a powerful legal structure that can help families manage their assets, minimise tax, and plan for the future. But like any big financial move, it’s important to fully understand how it works and when it makes sense to use one. So, what exactly is a family trust, and when might it be the right tool for your family? Table of Contents What is a Family Trust? A family trust is a type of discretionary trust set up to hold assets for the benefit of family members. Essentially, it’s a way of structuring your finances so that the income and assets can be managed for the long-term benefit of your family. The trustee manages the trust, deciding how and when income and capital are distributed to the beneficiaries (usually family members). Here’s the key part: the beneficiaries don’t own the assets directly—the trust does. This structure provides flexibility in how the assets are used and gives the trustee the ability to distribute income in a way that best supports the family’s needs. When Should You Consider a Family Trust? The decision to set up a family trust often comes down to specific financial and family goals. A family trust might be right for you if:You want to protect family assets: A family trust can safeguard assets like property or investments from creditors, legal claims, or family disputes. For example, if a family member encounters financial trouble, their creditors can’t access the assets held in the trust. You’re interested in tax planning: A big benefit of a family trust is the ability to distribute income to family members in lower tax brackets, potentially reducing the overall tax bill for the family. Keep in mind, though, that retained income in the trust may be taxed at a higher rate. You’re planning for future generations: A family trust can help ensure that wealth is passed down through the family, keeping assets within the family line for future generations to benefit from. How Does a Family Trust Work in Australia? In Australia, a family trust is typically set up as a discretionary trust, meaning the trustee has full control over how and when income or assets are distributed to the beneficiaries. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:The Trustee: The trustee is responsible for managing the trust’s assets. This could be a family member or a corporate trustee, depending on what’s best for your situation. A corporate trustee often provides more flexibility and continuity. The Beneficiaries: Beneficiaries are usually family members who benefit from the trust’s income or assets,... --- > Learn how debt recycling in Australia can help you save on tax by turning your home loan into tax-deductible debt that can be used to invest. - Published: 2024-09-16 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/debt-recycling-in-australia-a-simple-guide/ - Categories: Investing - Tags: Investment Debt recycling might sound complicated, but it’s actually a straightforward strategy that can help you use your home loan to build wealth. Save on Tax and Pay Off Your Home Faster with Debt Recycling in Australia Published 16/09/2024 | Last Updated 16/09/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Debt recycling might sound complicated, but it’s actually a straightforward strategy that can help you use your home loan to build wealth. In simple terms, debt recycling in Australia means turning non-tax-deductible debt, like your mortgage, into tax-deductible debt that you can claim on your tax return. By doing this, you can start investing, pay off your home loan quicker, and potentially save on tax. Read on as we explain how you can use debt recycling to your advantage. Table of Contents How Does Debt Recycling Work? Debt recycling works by taking equity from your home loan and investing it in income-producing assets like shares or an investment property. You then use the income from those investments to pay off your mortgage faster. Over time, your home loan shrinks, and you’re left with tax-deductible debt on your investments. To give an example of debt recycling, let’s say you’ve paid off a good chunk of your mortgage and have built up $200,000 in equity. You can borrow against that equity to buy shares or invest in property. The interest on this loan is tax-deductible, and the returns from the investment help you pay off your home loan quicker. Here's a Simple Example of Debt Recycling Imagine Peter and Michelle, a couple who’ve been paying off their mortgage for several years. They’ve built $300,000 of equity in their home. They decide to use debt recycling by borrowing $150,000 from their home loan to buy shares. The interest on the loan is tax-deductible, and they use the dividends and tax savings to pay down their mortgage faster. Over time, they’ve turned their non-tax-deductible home loan into an investment loan that offers tax benefits. What Are the Benefits of Debt Recycling? When incorporated into a well-structured financial plan, debt recycling can help reduce the costs of holding investments. Some of the benefits include:Paying off your home loan faster by using investment income. Saving on tax because the interest on your investment loan is tax-deductible. Building wealth by diversifying into assets like shares or property. Not sacrificing your lifestyle since you're using the returns from your investments to cover your mortgage. Debt recycling can be particularly beneficial if you have a solid income and a long-term investment mindset. Risks of Debt Recycling Like any financial strategy, there are pros and cons of debt recycling. The main risk is that you’re borrowing more, which could become difficult to manage if interest rates rise or your investments underperform. You’re also reliant on maintaining steady income to cover both your home loan and the debt recycling loan structure. Tax Benefits of Debt Recycling One of the key benefits of debt recycling is that the interest on an investment loan is tax-deductible. However, it’s important to understand that claiming the interest doesn’t result in a 100% refund. Instead, the amount you save depends on... --- > Considering investing in a Managed Investment Trust? Learn what an MIT is, how it works, and factors to consider before making a decision. - Published: 2024-09-13 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/should-you-invest-in-a-managed-investment-trust/ - Categories: Investing - Tags: Managed Investment Trusts, Trusts If you're looking for a way to grow your wealth, you might be considering investing in a Managed Investment Trust (MIT). But is it the right option for you? Should You Invest in a Managed Investment Trust? Published 12/09/2024 | Last Updated 12/09/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice We all want to make smart financial decisions, but sometimes the world of investments can feel overwhelming. If you're looking for a way to grow your wealth, you might be considering investing in a Managed Investment Trust (MIT). But is it the right option for you? In this article, we'll break down what an MIT is, how it works, and weigh up the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision. Table of Contents What is a Managed Investment Trust? A Managed Investment Trust (MIT) is a structure that allows you to pool your money with other investors to invest in a range of assets, such as property, shares, and bonds. It's common in Australia because of the tax advantages, especially for foreign investors, under the attribution managed investment trust (AMIT) framework. Unlike directly investing in individual assets, an MIT is professionally managed by an investment management manager. Their role is to make the decisions about where and how to invest, based on the goals of the trust and its investors. Here’s a quick snapshot of how an MIT works:You buy units in the trust, which represents your share of the pooled investments. The income generated by the trust’s assets is distributed to investors based on the number of units they hold. MITs are governed by an investment management agreement, which outlines how the fund operates, including the risks, fees, and expected returns. A good place to start is using a net worth calculator or budget planner, which can help you identify how much you can comfortably invest without impacting your day-to-day life.   Why Use a Managed Investment Trust? If you're thinking about investing in a managed investment trust Australia, there are a few advantages to consider:Professional Management: A chartered investment manager makes the investment decisions for you, which can be handy if you don’t have the time or expertise to manage investments yourself. Diversification: By pooling your money with other investors, MITs give you access to a wide variety of asset classes, such as shares, property, and bonds. Tax Benefits: The attribution managed investment trust regime allows for some tax advantages, particularly for foreign investors. Accessibility: You can invest in assets that may have been out of reach on your own, including alternative investments, property, or real estate investment planning. Things to Consider Before Investing On the flip side, here are some things to keep in mind when considering an MIT:Fees: Managed investment funds typically come with management fees that can eat into your returns over time. Limited Control: You're not the one making decisions. If you prefer hands-on investing, this could be a drawback. Risk: Like all investments, MITs come with risks. Market volatility, economic conditions, and even political changes can impact returns. Tax Complexity: While there are tax benefits, some investors find the tax rules around MITs to be a bit complex, particularly when dealing... --- > Ready to take control of your financial future? A solid investment plan is key. We share how you can create a personalised investment plan. - Published: 2024-09-11 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/how-to-create-your-own-investment-plan-a-step-by-step-guide/ - Categories: Investing - Tags: Investment, Investment Plan We all want to be financially secure, but figuring out the best way to get there can be a bit overwhelming. If you're ready to take control of your financial future, a solid investment plan is the key you need to unlock the door of success. How to Create Your Own Investment Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide Published 12/09/2024 | Last Updated 12/09/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice We all want to be financially secure, but figuring out the best way to get there can be a bit overwhelming. If you're ready to take control of your financial future, a solid investment plan is the key you need to unlock the door of success. Whether you're just starting out or looking to fine-tune your existing strategy, this step-by-step guide will help you create an investment plan that's tailored to your needs, so you can achieve your financial goals. Read on! Table of Contents Take Stock of Your Finances Before diving into any investment plans, it's important to get a clear picture of where you stand financially. Here's how you can do that:Write down everything you own (your assets), including your home, super, savings, and any existing investments. List your debts, like credit cards or loans. Review your monthly income and expenses to figure out how much you can realistically put towards investing. A good place to start is using a net worth calculator or budget planner, which can help you identify how much you can comfortably invest without impacting your day-to-day life.   Set Your Financial Goals Once you've got a clear idea of your financial situation, it's time to set some goals. Ask yourself what you want to achieve with your investment plan. Your goals might include:Short-term goals (0-2 years): Saving for a holiday or a new car. Medium-term goals (3-5 years): Saving for a house deposit or an investment property. Long-term goals (5+ years): Building up your superannuation or setting yourself up for retirement. Make sure your goals are specific and measurable, like aiming to save $50,000 in five years or having $800,000 in super by retirement. Understand Investment Risks Investing always involves some level of risk. It's important to know what those risks are before you commit to an investment plan. Here's a quick overview of some common risks:Market risk: The value of your investment could fall due to market changes. Liquidity risk: You might not be able to sell your investment quickly without affecting its price, meaning you can lose money if you need to sell when the time isn't right. Inflation risk: The return on your investment might not keep up with inflation. Gearing risk: Using borrowed money to invest can increase losses if things don’t go to plan. As a general rule, higher-risk investments offer higher potential returns, while lower-risk options tend to provide more stable, but smaller, returns. It's all about finding a balance that works for you, while making informed decisions and avoiding unnecessary risk. Explore Your Investment Options Now that you've set your goals and understood the risks, it's time to explore different investment plans. Here are a few options to consider:Systematic investment plans: Invest a set amount of money at regular intervals, spreading your investment over time. Shares or ETFs are both popular investment vehicles for this... --- > Learn how to retire richer with 6 wealth-building strategies. Grow your wealth, avoid lifestyle creep, & take control of your financial future - Published: 2024-09-05 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/how-to-retire-richer/ - Categories: Retirement Planning - Tags: Retirement Learn 6 key wealth-building strategies to retire richer. Grow your wealth, avoid lifestyle creep, and take control of your financial future for a secure and prosperous retirement. How to Retire Richer: Use These 6 Wealth-Building Strategies Published 05/09/2024 | Last Updated 05/09/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice We all dream of retiring with enough wealth to enjoy a comfortable, carefree life. But not everyone achieves this. What separates those who retire with financial freedom from those who fall short? It’s not about luck—it’s about making smart choices, staying informed, and looking for ways to grow your wealth over time. Whether you're just starting to plan or are already on the path to retirement, these strategies can help you build a more secure and prosperous future. They won’t make you rich overnight, but when followed consistently, they can help set you up for a wealthier retirement. Table of Contents Focus on Long-Term Wealth Building Wealth isn’t built overnight, and one of the key strategies for retiring richer is to focus on the long term. Small, consistent contributions can accumulate into significant amounts thanks to the power of compounding interest. For example, if you begin saving in your 20s, contributing regularly to your superannuation or an investment account, the returns on your investments by retirement could far exceed your initial contributions. Even if you’re starting later in life, making smart decisions now can help you increase your future wealth. Why Consistency is KeyRegular contributions, even small ones, can have a compounding effect over time. Irregular saving limits your potential to build wealth. Take Advantage of Wealth-Growing Opportunities Throughout life, opportunities arise that can help grow your wealth. These could be employer contributions to your superannuation, tax incentives, or passive income options. It’s important to recognise these opportunities and take advantage of them when you can. For instance, some employers match employee superannuation contributions up to a certain percentage — this is essentially free money. Other strategies, like salary sacrificing into super, can help increase your retirement savings. Ways to capitalise on wealth-growing opportunities:Make use of tax-efficient strategies. Take advantage of employer-matching schemes. Explore passive income sources. Tip: Even small opportunities can add up to major gains over time. Keep Your Money Working for You Many people leave their savings in low-interest accounts, thinking it’s the safest option. But if you want to retire richer, you need to make sure your money is working for you. Smart investments — whether in stocks, managed funds, or property — can offer higher returns. Those who retire wealthier often generate passive income. This could be through dividends, rental properties, or other investment vehicles. The goal is to have your money continue growing even when you're not actively working. How to make your money work:Explore investment options beyond savings accounts. Build passive income streams through investments. Balance your risk tolerance with your financial goals. Avoid taking unnecessary risks of making uninformed investment choices. Avoid Lifestyle Creep Lifestyle creep, or lifestyle inflation, happens when your spending increases as your income rises. This can stop you from saving and investing effectively. It's common to upgrade your lifestyle—such as buying a nicer car or home—when you get... --- > Discover the 6 biggest retirement planning mistakes and learn how to avoid them for a financially safe, secure and stress-free retirement. - Published: 2024-09-05 - Modified: 2025-01-24 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/the-biggest-retirement-planning-mistakes/ - Categories: Retirement Planning - Tags: Retirement Discover the 6 biggest retirement planning mistakes and learn how to avoid them for a financially safe, secure and stress-free retirement. Avoid These Biggest Retirement Planning Mistakes for a Stress-Free Retirement Published 05/09/2024 | Last Updated 05/09/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Retirement is one of the most significant financial milestones in life, but many people fall into traps that can affect their future security and lifestyle. Making a few key mistakes in your retirement planning can result in financial stress down the road. In this article, we’ll look at some of the biggest retirement planning mistakes and explain how you can avoid them, so you can enjoy a better retirement. Table of Contents Don't Skip Retirement Planning Planning for retirement is crucial to ensure you have the financial resources to support your desired lifestyle. Without a well-thought-out plan, you may find yourself underprepared, which can lead to difficulty in affording expenses and having to change your lifestyle. None of that translates to an enjoyable or relaxing retirement, so we recommend you plan to ensure: You can cover essential living expenses. You’re prepared for unexpected healthcare costs. You can enjoy peace of mind in retirement. Now let's go through the 6 most common retirement planning mistake we commonly see. 1. Starting Too Late One of the most common and costly mistakes in retirement planning is starting too late. Many people delay their retirement savings, assuming they’ll have time to “catch up” later. But the truth is, the longer you wait, the less time your money has to benefit from compound interest, which is one of the most powerful tools for growing your wealth. Plus, starting late can mean having to contribute much larger amounts later in life, which can place a strain on your budget and divert money away from other things, like property investments. Waiting until your 40s or 50s can force you into a more aggressive saving strategy, and this often leads to unnecessary financial stress. Not only do early savers take advantage of compound interest, but they also have the flexibility to make adjustments along the way. By starting early, you’re better able to weather market fluctuations, recover from short-term losses, and make more strategic financial decisions. How to Avoid This Mistake:Start as early as possible, even if you can only contribute small amounts. Set up automatic contributions to your superannuation or retirement accounts. Increase your contributions over time as your income grows, or if you're behind, you can consider making larger contributions now. 2. Not Having a Clear Retirement Plan Going into retirement without a specific plan is like setting off on a journey without a map. Many people underestimate their future expenses or fail to set clear goals, leading to a shortfall in retirement savings. Without a clear plan, you might not know how much money you’ll need to maintain your lifestyle, cover healthcare costs, or fund activities such as travel. A retirement plan should include an assessment of your current financial situation, your retirement goals (such as where you’ll live and how you’ll spend your time), and a strategy for saving and investing. Planning should... --- > Planning for retirement is exciting but challenging. A new report highlights physical health and financial security as key to retiree happiness. Learn how to navigate rising living costs and financial uncertainties, and why working with a qualified financial advisor is the key to a secure retirement. - Published: 2024-06-17 - Modified: 2025-01-24 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/planning-for-retirement-health-happiness-and-financial-security/ - Categories: Retirement Planning - Tags: Retirement Planning for retirement is exciting but challenging. A new report highlights physical health and financial security as key to retiree happiness. Planning for Retirement? Don't Forget to Plan for Happiness Published 17/06/2024 | Last Updated 17/06/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Planning for retirement is a journey filled with excitement and anticipation, but it also comes with its share of challenges. A recent report, Challenger's inaugural Retirement Happiness Index, conducted in collaboration with YouGov, sheds light on what influences happiness in retirement for Australians over the age of 60. The study highlights physical health and financial security as primary factors affecting retirees' contentment. With a score of 70 out of 100, the report reveals that while many retirees are enjoying their golden years, there is significant room for improvement, particularly in areas like physical health and financial stability. Rising living costs and financial uncertainties are major concerns for retirees, impacting their confidence in having enough money to last through retirement. This brings us to the central focus of this article: the importance of planning for financial security in retirement. By understanding and addressing these pressures, we can better position ourselves to handle any ups and downs that come our way. In this article, we’ll discuss how to navigate these challenges and why working with a qualified financial advisor can make all the difference to your quality of life when the time comes to stop working. Table of Contents Understanding the Report’s Findings The Challenger report provides a comprehensive look at what makes retirees happy and content. It gives us a great insight into what's important for a happy, healthy and secure retirement. Conducted with the help of YouGov, the study surveyed over 1000 Australians aged 60 and above. It delved into various aspects of retirement happiness, including mental and physical health, social connections, purpose, and financial wellbeing. The overall score for Australians over 60 was 70, indicating a moderate level of satisfaction among retirees. Interestingly, activities and hobbies scored the highest at 79. 5, followed closely by mental health at 77. 6. However, physical health (61. 5) and financial stability (56. 3) were identified as areas needing the most improvement. The report highlighted that more than two-thirds of Australians over 60 would be much happier if they didn’t have to worry about their finances in retirement. Additionally, over 70% believe that a guaranteed income in retirement would significantly boost their happiness, with more than 40% strongly agreeing. These findings underscore the critical role financial security plays in retirement satisfaction. Challenger's chief executive, Mandy Mannix, pointed out that while a happy retirement involves more than just finances, having confidence in the longevity of one's savings is essential. The report also noted that retirees felt their happiness would improve with access to financial education, support through financial advice, and a regular income to enjoy a safe, stable retirement. Given these insights, it’s clear that addressing financial stability and preparing for cost-of-living pressures is vital for a comfortable and happy retirement. Why Cost of Living Pressures Aren't Anything New Cost of living pressures are a reality that everyone faces, not just retirees. These pressures... --- > So, how much does a financial advisor cost? We explain financial advisor fees, how to choose the right service and get the best results. - Published: 2024-04-23 - Modified: 2025-01-24 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/understanding-financial-advisor-fees-how-much-does-a-financial-advisor-cost/ - Categories: Financial Advisor - Tags: Financial Advisor Fees So, how much does a financial advisor cost? We explain financial advisor fees, how to choose the right service and get the best results. How Much Does a Financial Advisor Cost? Published 08/05/2024 | Last Updated 09/05/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice The thought of having to cover the cost of a financial planner's fees and charges may be daunting. Thankfully, we're here to give you all the information you need. When you considered that it’s a key part of building a safe, secure and comfortable financial future, the fees charged by financial advisors suddenly feel like a smart investment. Read on to find out why. The cost of hiring a financial advisor depends on a variety of factors, including the complexity of your financial needs, your goals, and the stage of life you’re in. Financial advisors offer a spectrum of services, from helping you manage debt and budget effectively to providing sophisticated investment advice and retirement strategies. While fees charged by financial planners vary widely, remember that obtaining professional advice should be viewed as an investment in your financial health and future prosperity. No matter if you're at the outset of your career, actively building your wealth, or nearing retirement, the right financial advisor can offer invaluable guidance and tailored strategies. The challenge lies in finding an advisor whose expertise aligns with your specific needs and whose fees are transparent and within your budget. Let's explore how financial advisors charge for their services and how you can get the best value for your money. Table of Contents Are Financial Advisor Fees Tied to Your Wealth? Financial advisor charges vary depending on your life stage, your financial goals, and the complexity of your financial situation. Financial advisors offer a range of services, from budgeting and debt management to investment advice and retirement planning. As such, a financial planner's fees for these services can vary, but it's important to remember that investing in expert advice is just that – an investment in your future financial well-being. Whether you're just starting out in your career, in the midst of growing your wealth, or approaching retirement, a financial advisor can provide valuable insights and strategies to help you make the most of your financial resources. The key is to find an advisor whose services match your needs and whose fee structure fits your budget. What's the best way to find out? Just ask. Financial Planning Is Not Just for the Rich Financial planning has often been shrouded in the misconception that it’s an elite service meant solely for the wealthy, which couldn't be further from the truth. It's a myth that stops too many from getting the guidance they need, thinking that their finances don't make the cut for professional help. But here's the thing: financial planning is for everyone, no matter what your financial position might be. Being financially healthy isn't just about how much you earn; it's about playing your cards right, no matter what hand you've been dealt. The truth is, financial planning isn't just for those who've already made their fortune. It's for everyone — whether you're fresh into your career, making your... --- > Get started with wealth creation: Learn about proven wealth creation strategies that you can use to build your wealth creation plan. - Published: 2024-04-02 - Modified: 2025-01-24 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/beginners-guide-to-wealth-creation/ - Categories: Wealth Creation - Tags: Wealth Get started with wealth creation: Learn about proven wealth creation strategies that you can use to build your personal wealth creation plan. Looking to Build Your Wealth? Start with These Proven Wealth Creation Strategies Published 02/04/2024 | Last Updated 05/04/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Wealth creation is about more than just making money. It's a process of building long-term financial security and independence through smart investments and savings. Imagine having enough money to support yourself and your family, without worrying about your next pay cheque. Or getting to enjoy the kind of retirement that you've always wanted. That's the power of wealth creation. Creating wealth isn't just for the rich; it's possible for anyone willing to learn and put in the effort. Pursuing wealth involves understanding how to use your money to make more money, whether that's through stocks, real estate, or other investments. To get wealthy, you'll need to learn how to make your money work for you. In this article, we'll dive into the basics of wealth creation. We'll explore key principles, like setting financial goals and diversifying your investments. We'll also look at strategies to grow your wealth over time. By the end, you'll have a clearer idea of how to start your journey towards financial independence. If you need help, our wealth management services are here to guide you every step of the way. Table of Contents How To: Become Rich in Australia Getting rich in Australia is all about smart wealth creation. It's no surprise that most of us want to get rich. So, let's answer this popular question. To understand how to get rich, you need to shift your focus from short-term gains, to steady long-term progress. Building wealth is not just about earning a high income; it's about making your money work for you. Generating a high income is just one short-term part of becoming rich. By investing in assets like stocks and real estate, saving consistently, and managing risks wisely, you can build a substantial financial foundation that continues to get stronger with time. Wealth creation is the key to turning your financial dreams into reality, whether you're aiming for a comfortable retirement or financial independence. With the right strategies and a long-term perspective, anyone can work towards getting rich in Australia. We'll be writing more about how you can get rich in Australia in future. For now, read on, as the concepts behind wealth creation will help you on your journey to becoming rich. I Earn a Lot. Am I Rich? Being wealthy is often confused with earning a high income, but they're not the same thing. Income generation is about earning money through work or business activities. It's important, but it's just the starting point. Wealth creation takes it a step further by using that income to build assets that grow in value over time. Understanding these key concepts is essential for anyone looking to build wealth. It's not just about making money; it's about making smart choices with your money. By focusing on assets, avoiding liabilities, and harnessing the power of compounding, you can set yourself on the path to... --- > Give yourself a financial health check! From smart budgeting to savvy saving, you can use these tips to improve your financial wellbeing. - Published: 2024-03-28 - Modified: 2025-01-24 - URL: https://directwealth.com.au/financial-health-check/ - Categories: Wealth Creation Just as with your physical and mental health, it's important to look after your financial health, too - because they are all interlinked. A financial health check is a holistic review of your personal finances, aimed at ensuring you're on track to meet your financial goals. Improve Your Financial Wellbeing With Our Easy 8-Step Financial Health Check Published 28/03/2024 | Last Updated 02/04/2024 Written by:Joel SimmondsHead of Advice Just like your physical and mental health, your financial health matters. It's all connected. A financial health check is a complete look at your money situation. It helps make sure you're on the right path to reach your financial goals while building your financial literacy. You can use this article as a financial health checklist tool. Completing the list will help you to be happier with your financial positioning. With some smart moves and careful planning, you can stay financially healthy. Table of Contents Why Conduct a Financial Health Check? Regular financial health checks are like medical check-ups. They make sure your finances are in order. Stay in Control: Life can change quickly, with job loss, illness, or unexpected bills. Regularly checking your finances helps you keep up with these changes. Adjust Your Plans: As your life changes, your financial plans should too. This could be due to changes in your income, family, or goals. Peace of Mind: Knowing your finances are in order can reduce stress and anxiety about money. Having good financial wellness lets you focus on other important parts of your life. Detect Problems Early: Regular reviews can help you spot issues before they become bigger problems. This can save you time, money, and stress. Stay on Track with Goals: Whether you're saving for a home, planning for retirement, or paying off debt, periodic checks make sure you're moving towards your goals. Optimise Your Finances: A financial health check lets you review your spending, saving, and investing. It helps you find ways to cut costs, save more, or invest better. How Often Should I Review My Finances? It's a good idea to check your finances every six months or at least once a year. But, you might need to do it more often if big changes happen in your life or money situation. This could be things like getting married, having a baby, changing jobs, or getting close to retirement. By making financial health checks a regular part of your routine, you can ensure that your financial position stays steady. Here’s how you can make sure your financial health stays in check: Step 1: Assess Your Spending and Saving Habits The foundation of good financial health is understanding how to manage your money. Start by looking at your bank statements. Sort your spending into must-haves (like housing, utilities, and groceries) and nice-to-haves (like eating out, entertainment, and subscriptions). This sorting will show you where your money is going. Think about these questions:Are there areas where you're spending too much? Look for any habits of spending on things you don't really need. Are you saving enough each month? Check if your savings match your financial goals. Next, make a budget. It's a way to plan how you use your income for expenses, savings, and paying off debt. Set limits for each spending area. This helps make... --- ---