Articles by
Barbara Drury

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Which super funds accept transfers from KiwiSaver accounts?
If you have savings in a KiwiSaver account, you can voluntarily transfer them to an Australian super fund under the provisions of a Trans-Tasman Retirement Savings Portability scheme that was introduced on 1 July 2013.
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Location the missing ingredient in retirement planning
When you start planning your retirement, where you live can be just as important as your super balance and have an even bigger impact on your quality of life.
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How do tax-deductible superannuation contributions work?
Making a tax-deductible super contribution can be a great way to boost your retirement savings. Find out whether they could be the right strategy for you.
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Lifetime estimator calculator
Without knowing how long we will live, retirement income planning is difficult, to say the least. This calculator provides a personalised estimate, depending on your health and other factors.
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The benefits of contributing extra to super earlier in life
If your super balance is underwhelming, even small personal contributions can supercharge your retirement savings once compound interest and tax do the heavy lifting.
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Balanced, Growth, Defensive: What’s in a name?
If you are confused about the meaning of super investment option labels like Balanced, Growth and Defensive you’re not alone. Even the funds can’t agree.
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Top 10 Balanced super funds ranked by risk and return
Earning a good return on your super is important, but so is avoiding wild ups and downs when markets are volatile, especially when you are nearing retirement.
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ESG and sustainable investing: A practical guide for SMSF trustees
Climate change, sustainability, greenwashing – investing is a minefield these days but there are steps you can take to align your investments with your values.
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How does SAPTO work? (Senior Australians and Pensioners Tax Offset)
If you are eligible for the Age or DVA pension you could be in line for a handy tax rebate, depending on your taxable income and relationship status.
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What is the retirement age in Australia?
When (and if) you retire is up to you, but there are rules around when you can access your super and the Age Pension.
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Accessing super between 60 and 65
Many of us dream of early retirement, but if you need to access your super to live the dream you need to tick a few boxes first, beginning with your age.
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How superannuation is taxed: Super for beginners guide
Super is a very tax-effective vehicle for your retirement savings, but no-one said the taxation of super was simple. Here’s a quick overview of what you pay and when.
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Preservation age explained: What it means for accessing your super
There are a series of hurdles you need to clear before you can access your super. The first is your age.
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How retirees are using home equity to boost income
Cost of living pressures are expected to fuel growth in reverse mortgages as retirees look for ways to top up their income.
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How your super affects your Age Pension entitlements
The amount of Age Pension you are eligible to receive in retirement is means tested, with super among the assets included. This is how it’s assessed.
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What is a self-managed super fund (SMSF)?
SMSFs are a popular choice for people who want more flexibility and control over their retirement savings, but they’re not for everyone so be sure to understand what’s involved.
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SMSF setup guide: 9 steps you need to follow
SMSFs offer more control than other super funds, but strict rules apply. Follow our 9-step guide to ensure your fund complies with all your legal obligations from the outset.
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Multigenerational SMSFs: Benefits and pitfalls
Now that SMSFs can have up to six members, it makes it easier to bring the whole family into the super fold, but it’s important to look before you leap.