In their Retirement Income Report based on a survey of 7,305 Australians over the age of 40, Australian research firm, Investment Trends, revealed that only 46% of Australians feel prepared for their retirement. Of these, only 25% believe that they will live comfortably in retirement. Will that really be comfortable enough for you or will you better off with FMD's No Compromisesstandard?
ASFA Retirement Standard
Annual living costs
Weekly living costs
Couple - modest
$40,739
$777
Couple - Comfortable
$62,562
$1,203
Single - Modest
$28,179
$542
Single - Comfortable
$44,224
$850
Source: Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) Retirement Standard, March 2021
FMD 'No Compromises' Retirement
Annual living costs
Weekly living costs
Single
$80,000
$1,538
Couple
$100,000
$1,923
In addition, the report states that 51% of retirees expect to outlive their retirement savings. If you expect to live on more than the Age Pension (full Age Pension rates plus supplements are $35,916 for a couple, or $23,824 for a single person, applicable since 20 September 2018), you will need to use smart strategies to find the additional income.
Ever considered downsizing, utilising reverse mortgages or the Pension Loan Scheme?
The post-COVID housing market recovery in Australia has certainly exceeded expectations, with property prices in Melbourne up 6.1%, Brisbane 6.3% and Adelaide 4.9% so far in 2021.
As prices rise, more retirees are considering downsizing their home. In turn, taking advantage of tax and superannuation incentives to maintain the lifestyle they desire in retirement and protect their wealth.
Until recently, these incentives only applied to the family home, but they may now apply to an investment property if it was the main residence at some point during ownership, and other eligibility criteria are also met as detailed below.
Unlocking the equity in your home can be an effective way to achieve your lifestyle goals and generate more income in retirement. However, it will also reduce the size of your estate and the amount of wealth you can pass to the next generation. We explore the pros and cons of the three main financial strategies.
Option 1: Downsize your home and invest or live off the proceeds
What is it?
Selling your home to move to a smaller, lower-cost home to free up cash to invest and create an income stream.
Pros
Frees up cash and allows the money to be reinvested tax-free into superannuation. From 1st July 2018 those aged 65+ can invest up to $300,000 ($600,000 per couple) from the proceeds of the sale of a primary residence (held for 10 years or more) into their super fund and then draw an income stream. Money can be invested on top of the $1.6 million contributions cap and is not impacted by the work test. Read more about the opportunity for downsizers to boost thier superannuation here.
Cons
The proceeds of the sale are assessable for the Age Pension Assets Test, so it is likely to reduce your Centrelink Age Pension. For those in aged care, it will also increase assessable assets and is therefore likely to increase aged care fees.
Option 2: Use a reverse mortgage to unlock home equity
What is it?
A reverse mortgage is a type of home loan that allows you to borrow money using the equity in your home as security.
Pros
Delivers additional income throughout retirement and providing you draw-down on your reverse mortgage as an income stream it won’t be assessable for Age Pension or aged care purposes.
Cons
Interest rates are typically higher than for other type of loans and debt can grow quickly due to compounding.
Option 3: Use the Pension Loan Scheme (PLS) to generate more income
What is it?
The Pension Loan Scheme (PLS) is essentially a reverse mortgage provided by the government. The government takes a stake in your home and receives the money back (with interest) from your Estate.
From 1st July 2019 anyone of Age Pension age will be able to access the PLS. Maximum rate age pensioners can borrow up to 50 per cent of the maximum rate of fortnightly Age Pension, part-rate age pensioners can increase their fortnightly payment up to a maximum of 150% of full Age Pension, while self-funded retirees will be able to borrow up to the full 150% of the maximum rate Age Pension.
Pros
A relatively straightforward way to generate additional retirement income without leaving the family home. The interest rate charged (currently 5.25% p.a.) is typically cheaper than a reverse mortgage from a bank.
Cons
Unlike a reverse mortgage from a bank, PLS income will be included in aged care means testing, so using the scheme while in aged care may significantly increase costs.
Picking the right option for you
The Retirement Income Report also revealed that when seeking help with their retirement goals, 33% Australians are most inclined to turn to a financial planner, and 25% to their super fund, for assistance. Whether you choose to get professional financial advice or go it alone, the key to a comfortable retirement lifestyle is to act now. If you'd like to speak to an expert, you can book a consultation with me or one of my colleagues by clicking the link below. There is no charge for the first meeting so it's a great opportunity to see if we can help you acheive your retirement goals as we have helped so many others. But don't take my word for it, see what our clients say.
Geoff and Fiona Freeman
★★★★★
I turned to Richard Dahl for advice about managing a small portfolio of shares when I was just 21 and working at Mitsubishi. When I got my first well-paid job at 23, I used his advice again to get serious about building my superannuation. My goal then was to retire at 50. I’m now 55 and semi-retired, set to retire fully next year. Richard’s advice has seen us through everything from paying off the house, to the kids’ education and making the most of a redundancy package. Our relationship with Richard has also helped cement our financial goals as a couple. The annual review meeting has kept us on track and it’s been great to see our savings and investment projections turn into reality over the years. After all the hard work and raising two independent daughters, we’ve gone full-circle and now it's time for us again.
Richard Dahl
Principal Financial Adviser & Investment Committee Chairman
Howard Kirsch
★★★★★
FMD’s advice and support was invaluable when retiring from corporate life overseas and returning to Australia. I needed advice on consolidating assets in multiple countries so I interviewed three advisory firms and was most impressed with FMD. After meeting to understand my needs, they committed to putting a detailed plan together in a few short days, and that’s exactly what they did. Many years later, Jason Calleja now works closely with me to manage my money in retirement. I’m very happy with their investment performance over the long haul, but it’s their commitment to their clients that’s truly outstanding.
Jason Calleja
Senior Financial Adviser
Megan and Andrew James
★★★★★
Megan and I sought advice about improving our superannuation and personal insurances in the lead-up to starting a family. Jason was amazing, taking us through our options and working with us to restructure our super investments and obtain affordable insurance with the desired level of cover. We would recommend Jason and the FMD team to anyone seeking financial advice. We look forward to working with him to shape our financial security in the future.
Jason Calleja
Senior Financial Adviser
Alison Palmer
★★★★★
After a successful career in pharmaceuticals, I took a redundancy package and was recommended to FMD Financial for investment advice. Like many people, I was sceptical about financial advisers after a bad past experience. Aaron’s considered approach and FMD’s robust investment process changed my mind and five years later FMD now manages our superannuation through their Active Management Service (AMS). One of the things I really like is that they follow a rigorous process and always give a clear and transparent rationale for every investment decision. My husband was even more sceptical than me, but now he sees the value of good advice. My redundancy package was the trigger to contact FMD, but I’ve since realised the benefit of getting your "ducks in a row" in your 40s, while you still have time to make a difference to the money you'll have later. I would really encourage more people to get advice earlier in their working life. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable financial adviser that you can absolutely trust, give Aaron a call. He is genuine, supportive and great to deal with all-round.
Bob and Val Higgins
★★★★★
Anna was unbelievable in helping us navigate a stressful year in the transition to retirement from our own business. In the end, we got a great outcome and we’re eternally grateful for her help. Both Anna and Martin are always there to listen and over the years their advice has been spot on. Now we can relax knowing we’ll have the money we need in retirement. FMD make the financial side of life easy and we trust them implicitly.
Anna Oudendijk
Financial Adviser
Bruce and Jill MacKenzie
★★★★★
We were referred to David Batchelor by a friend when we needed advice on investing the proceeds of a property sale. David and his associate adviser, Sandra, were able to give us strong investment advice and implement it quickly and efficiently. Since then, the communication has been excellent and we always know where things stand. My wife and I now enjoy the security of knowing our money has been invested wisely and ethically. We appreciate the regular portfolio reviews undertaken by the FMD Investment Committee and are confident our money is being well managed. We’d certainly recommend FMD to others looking for sound financial advice.
David Batchelor
Principal Financial Adviser
Shan Fleming
★★★★★
Mum went downhill after Dad died and eventually we decided a care facility was best for her now she is in her late eighties. Mum and Dad’s investments with FMD enable her to be in a place she loves and their support has been invaluable. We had to move quickly to secure a place, so Anna modeled three financial options for us. Her knowledge of the process and paperwork was a huge relief when we had very little time and felt pressured to make a decision. I have great confidence in Anna’s judgement and knowledge of the Aged Care sector and I know I don’t have to worry as FMD have it covered.
Anna Oudendijk
Financial Adviser
Cliff Wright
★★★★★
I first met David Batchelor when I took a voluntary redundancy five years ago. David helped me move from a defined benefit scheme into a super accumulation fund and plot a path to early retirement. It was refreshing to meet a professional and knowledgeable adviser who was more interested in my needs than their own. Under David’s guidance I now have more money than when I started investing with FMD Financial, even though I’m drawing a comfortable monthly income stream. Life is short and I’m enjoying the retirement lifestyle I want with the confidence my money will last for the long haul. I've met other FMD clients at their regular events and no-one has a bad word to say about them. I'd certainly recommend David and the team to anyone facing redundancy and looking for expert financial advice.
David Batchelor
Principal Financial Adviser
Andrew Thorogood
★★★★★
I interviewed three different Financial advisers and found the most comfort with FMD. Michael, my adviser, opened my eyes to the potential of my retirement wealth giving me excellent direction as to what I need to consider in the future. Now I have a legal will, adequate insurance protection, a shares portfolio along with a far more lucrative superannuation fund building my future.
Michael Russell
Senior Financial Adviser
Dee James
★★★★★
Jason Calleja was a source of great comfort as he provided us with all the information we needed to ensure a smooth transition for Dee's mum. He explained the legislation, prepared financial spreadsheets with projected multi-year income and costs, arranged tours of aged care facilities; liaised with Centrelink. Jason continues to be responsive to our ad hoc questions. We have no hesitation in recommending FMD's services when families face these challenging and emotional decisions. Having access to their knowledge of the system and financial modelling enables the family to focus on the wellbeing of the parent.
Jason Calleja
Senior Financial Adviser
Jenny Lee
★★★★★
My introduction to FMD 10 years ago facilitated an unexpected life change - to my delight, retirement was a possibility far earlier than expected. The strong relationship built to support my wealth management has given me peace of mind, removed work stress from the equation and contributed greatly to my happiness. I love my life and truly enjoy every day - I don't know how I ever had time for work!
Craig Williams
Director
Daniel Witherington
★★★★★
I have been working with FMD Financial for the past five years. They are professional and knowledgeable and they’ve helped me make the most of my money. They have been able to help me develop a portfolio of investments that supports the needs of my growing family and my future wealth.
David Copeland
★★★★★
FMD Financial were recommended to me 13 years ago when I became concerned my previous company was not looking after my needs; and tended to chase quick profits which often became exactly the reverse. David Batchelor has been my Funds Adviser since and has delivered great service and communication while operating with integrity. He is backed up by a company structure that includes an active internal Investment Committee (IC) that constantly reviews their overall investment structure including detailed research of individual investment targets. I am totally satisfied with their service and their motto ‘Health, Wealth and Happiness’ has made a very positive impact on my life in retirement.
General advice disclaimer: This article has been prepared by FMD Financial and is intended to be a general overview of the subject matter. The information in this article is not intended to be comprehensive and should not be relied upon as such. In preparing this article we have not taken into account the individual objectives or circumstances of any person. Legal, financial and other professional advice should be sought prior to applying the information contained on this article to particular circumstances. FMD Financial, its officers and employees will not be liable for any loss or damage sustained by any person acting in reliance on the information contained on this article. FMD Group Pty Ltd ABN 99 103 115 591 trading as FMD Financial is a Corporate Authorised Representative of FMD Advisory Services Pty Ltd AFSL 232977. The FMD advisers are Authorised Representatives of FMD Advisory Services Pty Ltd AFSL 232977. Rev Invest Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative of FMD Advisory Services Pty Ltd AFSL 232977.
Mike joined FMD Financial in 2002 and is a Director and Adviser in the Melbourne office. Since joining the financial services industry in 1986 as an Adviser, Mike has consulted to a number of medium-sized accountancy practices in small business planning.
Mike specialises in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds, direct equity model portfolios, including hybrid securities and Exchange Traded Funds (ETF). As a member of the FMD Investment Committee, Mike provides strategic planning for asset allocation, fund structure and advice to high net worth individuals covering estate planning, investment strategy and retirement income streams.
Take the next step on the road to health, wealth and happiness today.
Kaye Taing
Financial Adviser
Adelaide
Adviser Team
BCom, Adv Dip FP
Kaye has been involved in the financial services industry since 2008 and joined FMD in 2017. She enjoys working with people to help find solutions to meet their goals and lifestyle objectives.
Her areas of interest include superannuation, taxation, wealth creation and Centrelink. Kaye's philosophy is that life is always changing and so do peoples goals.
With over 20 years of experience in the banking and financial services industry, Endre has spent the last decade as a specialist Financial Adviser in life insurance. He excels in creating comprehensive, tailored insurance solutions that are easy to manage and right for every client.
His commitment to his clients extends beyond policy creation; Endre provides unwavering support to his clients during their most vulnerable moments. His expertise and dedication ensure that our clients receive the best possible advice and support when they need it most.
Rebecca (Bec) specialises in providing strategic and investment advice to clients wherever they are in their life journey. She supports them to take control of their finances and work alongside them to achieve their personal and financial goals. Her broad technical knowledge allows her to provide high quality advice to clients both in the accumulation phase and retirement planning phase, including in the areas of personal insurance, investment portfolio construction, superannuation, retirement income, social security and aged care.
Bec has worked in financial services since 1996 and joined FMD Financial in 2021. Previously, she was employed by a small advisory firm and an asset consultant and has held roles in advice, superannuation and insurance; at an Australian bank and several global banks.
Bec looks after a number of clients who reside in Geelong and on the Surf Coast and is available for appointments in central Geelong on a fortnightly basis. Being born and bred in Geelong, Bec takes advantage of these regular visits to connect with the local community and catch up with family and friends.
With over a decade of experience in financial services, Dylan specializes in comprehensive and holistic financial advice. He is an expert in superannuation, investment portfolio construction, pre- and post-retirement planning, and personal insurance. Dylan is dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals and secure peace of mind.
Dylan is fluent in Mandarin and has basic proficiency in Cantonese, making him an ideal adviser for Chinese-speaking clients. His language skills and deep understanding of financial planning ensure personalized advice tailored to the needs of the Chinese community.
Anna has been involved in the financial services industry since 2003 and joined FMD Financial Adelaide in 2009 as an associate adviser. In 2013 Anna moved to FMD Financial Brisbane bringing a broad technical knowledge base combined with a genuine interest in improving the financial wellbeing of clients.
Anna's skills and knowledge provide her with the expertise to deliver comprehensive advice across a broad spectrum of financial issues; spanning from wealth creation, superannuation and personal insurance through to pre and post retirement planning including specialised areas of Centrelink, DVA and Aged Care. Anna provides a personalised and dedicated service and has developed strong relationships with many clients as a trusted coach and navigator in their financial journey.
Michael joined FMD from Investwell Financial Planning as an Adviser with fresh ideas and enthusiasm in 2012.
Michael started his career in the financial services industry in 2001 as a paraplanner, writing technical plans and formulating strategies. From there, he moved to a planner role for a small boutique financial planning firm, where he quickly established valued relationships with clients who grew to depend on him for his advice and expertise.
Martin has been in the financial planning industry since 1984, starting with a medium-sized practice in London, where he became their youngest director in 1992. He has continued in this industry since moving to Australia in 1999.
Prior to establishing FMD Financial (Queensland) in 2004, Martin was a Senior Adviser with a multi-national human resource consulting group where he sat on the National Investment Committee and where he helped a broad client base achieve their financial and lifestyle goals through expert advice including retirement, redundancy, wealth accumulation and Centrelink strategies.
Karl joined FMD with 21 years of financial advisory experience, previously working in Minneapolis and Sydney before returning home to Melbourne.
Karl enjoys seeing his clients align their financial decisions with their underlying lifestyle values. His strengths include retirement planning, wealth creation, aged care and estate planning.
A former classical musician, he also likes bushwalking, time with family and a good coffee.
Andrew has been working in the financial services industry for 26 years, joining FMD Financial late 2019. Andrew has extensive experience as a financial adviser with a strong grasp on the technicalities of financial advice as well as insight into what it takes to support clients and help them achieve their financial goals.
Outside of work, Andrew enjoys park outings with his wife and the occasional competitive Pinball tournament.
Andrew holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Insurance) and a Diploma of Financial Planning.
Anna provides advice on a whole spectrum of money issues and enjoys helping her clients work through different life stages. Anna offers strategic advice for clients considering starting a family, saving for their kids’ education, managing day to day cash flow and debt, achieving work/life balance, career change, relationship separation, investing in assets, planning for retirement and caring for ageing parents.
Anna’s passion is in gaining a deep understanding of her client’s unique situation and what’s most important to them now and in future. From there, Anna tailors a strategy addressing her client’s specific personal and financial needs. Anna’s drive is helping her clients understand where they currently stand and where they are going so they can feel confident about their future, enabling them to have more time to focus on enjoying other areas of their life.
Anna joined FMD Financial in 2014 and has over 10 years’ experience in the advice industry. She is degree-qualified with a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Financial Planning, Finance & Economics.
Paul is known for his passion for helping people and his knack for solving problems. He is skilled at breaking down complicated financial jargon into easy-to-understand advice, empowering his clients to take charge of their financial futures. As a lifelong learner, Paul stays up to date with the latest technical developments and strategies in the financial world. Paul advises on a wide range of areas, including wealth accumulation, personal risk management, and retirement planning.
He has also undertaken specialist study in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds to further support his clients and the wider FMD Financial Brisbane team. Clients trust Paul to provide quality advice because he is not only knowledgeable but also genuinely cares about their financial well-being. With Paul by your side, you can navigate your financial journey with confidence.
Tony has over 35 years’ experience in banking and financial services including the last 25 years as an advisor. He is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP ®) and SMSF Specialist Advisor™. Tony works closely with clients to establish a financial plan that is tailored, effective, and easy to understand. Prior to joining FMD Financial, Tony worked as a Senior Financial Advisor with Banksia Partners for 3 years.
Nick specialises in providing strategic advice in relation to superannuation, retirement income streams, wealth creation, personal and business insurance, investment portfolios, managed funds and asset allocation. Nick has been involved in the financial services industry since 1998. Prior to working at FMD Financial, he was employed in various roles within the superannuation and wealth management areas of a global consulting firm.
Nick commenced his employment with FMD Financial in April 2007. He has a Bachelor of Commerce degree as well as a Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning and is a Certified Financial Planner™ professional.
Darren has been working in the financial services industry since 2012 and he has a passion to support individuals meet their personal and financial goals.
His broad technical knowledge allows him to provide high-quality, holistic advice to build, grow and protect wealth in areas such as superannuation, retirement planning, personal insurances and investment portfolio construction.
Cameron's motivation is simple, to help people lead happy lives and achieve financial independence. Having seen first-hand the impact of not having a plan in place, he knows how important it is to create a roadmap for the future so his clients not only know where they are now, but where they want to be and how they'll achieve it.
The strategies Cameron puts in place are a by-product of how FMD helps clients set out to achieve their goals. He provides holistic financial advice, covering all areas from superannuation and wealth creation to insurance and estate planning.
As part of FMD's advice, Cameron is skilled at designing long-term, diversified investment portfolios putting clients in the best possible position to achieve their financial goals.
As the old saying goes 'The hardest part of any journey is taking the first step'.
Starting her career in the late 1990’s, Megan's years of experience allow her to provide comprehensive, holistic financial advice tailored to each client's unique aspirations and circumstances. She specialises in guiding clients through every stage of their financial journey, from wealth accumulation to retirement and aged care, while ensuring clarity and confidence in their decisions.
Outside of work, Megan cherishes time with family and friends and enjoy simple pleasures like walks along the beach.