Introduction

Australia's vast expanses and varied climates make us prone to natural disasters.

In recent years alone, we’ve experienced the devastating impacts of bushfires in the southern parts of the country, flooding along the Eastern Coast, as well as significant storm events and cyclones.

As you can imagine, the aftermath of a natural disaster typically involves a lot of clean-up and rebuilding for those affected.

Introduction

If there is anything we have learnt in the last two years, it is just how quickly things can change. Between devastating bushfires, floods, and a life-altering pandemic (just to name a few), being prepared for the unexpected has never been made more apparent.

As confronting as it may be, it is essential to be aware of the grim possibility of unexpected death and the financial impact it would have on our family. Are they prepared and able to cover funeral costs? Will there be sufficient funds for living expenses? For mortgage repayments? It is a harsh reality but one we all cannot afford to ignore.

Introduction

With premiums often running to thousands of dollars per year, whether or not to take out private health insurance is a major financial decision. Here are some of the key issues you need to consider in making that decision.

Why go private?

There are two main types of private health insurance: hospital cover, and general treatment (or extras) cover. In some states you may also need to take out ambulance cover.

Introduction

A health crisis can occur at any time of life, but the risks obviously increase as we age. Unfortunately, due to this increased risk of illness or injury the cost of insurance for those over 50 can be high. As a result, people in this age group are tempted to drop their insurance cover altogether just when the need is at its greatest.

Introduction

Not a year goes by without some part of Australia being devastated by a natural disaster. Bushfires, floods, storms and tropical cyclones are a part of our lives. And as we’ve witnessed in recent years, destructive weather patterns and events occur regularly throughout the year, often with little or no warning. This means that any time of the year is a good time to review your insurance cover to ensure your financial possessions are protected, as well as the security of you and your loved ones.

Introduction

One of the joys in life is that we don’t know what will happen next. Most of us have positive expectations but sometimes Life doesn’t follow our lead and we’re dealt a blow. It’s how we manage each experience – or how we’ve planned ahead – that will make it either good or bad for us. These three stories could have easily turned out quite differently.

Introduction

The argument has been waged for many years - do I take out health insurance or do I invest the same amount each year and if I get sick, the money will be available (and it's earning me interest!)?
As with any type of insurance the decision is a personal one. Many people go without car, home or life insurance, thinking that the money is better spent or invested elsewhere… they are willing to take that risk. But how many of us have actually sat down and weighed up the differences between taking out health insurance or not, particularly with the government penalties on those not covered by a private health fund?

Introduction

You’ve saved hard to build your retirement nest egg. You should be able to spend the money on a well-earned relaxing lifestyle. But all this could be put at risk if your adult children don’t have their own financial affairs well managed, particularly adequate insurance protection.

Introduction

When most people think about financial planning they tend to focus on the wealth creation side of things, but often forget about the wealth protection. Building a financial plan without adequate insurance is like building a house on flimsy foundations.

Comprehensive insurance cover can be a significant expense; however these costs can be made more affordable by taking advantage of the tax deductions that apply to specific types of insurance, and to some methods of implementing insurance.