Build Wealth Today

Is your offset account really offsetting your loan? I’ve had one client who found theirs was not offset and the bank had to refund the lost interest. Have you checked yours?
Not sure how to? Reach out and we can check for you.

🏡 The new negative gearing rules: It’s not all bad news! 📉

👉 Property Investors: The new negative gearing rules aren’t a deal breaker. With the May 2026 Budget changes to negative gearing, there’s been plenty of noise. But it's vital to look at the facts—it is definitely not all bad news.
Here is what is actually changing for established properties bought after 12 May 2026:1️⃣ Current Investments are Grandfathered: Already own an investment property? Your current rules don't change. You can continue to negatively gear against your wage or salary normally until you sell.2️⃣ Losses are Quarantined, Not Lost: For established properties bought after Budget night, you can gear normally until 30 June 2027. After 1 July 2027, any rental losses are carried forward indefinitely to offset future property rental income.3️⃣ Capital Gains Relief: You can use those accumulated, carried-forward losses to offset your capital gains when you eventually dispose of the asset. Note: New builds are entirely exempt from these changes and keep full negative gearing benefits. Ultimately, property remains a long-term play—it just shifts the strategic focus onto the timing of asset disposal. ⏳📈

Reach out if you'd like to discuss this further - Suzy Shepherd - Wealth

⚠️ General Advice Warning: The information provided in this post is general in nature and has been prepared without taking into account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. Before acting on this information, you should consider its appropriateness having regard to your own circumstances and seek independent professional financial and tax advice.

Get your free $500! 💰

Did you know the government could be topping up your retirement savings for free? It’s called the Government Super Co-Contribution.
If you're a low to middle-income earner and make a personal after-tax contribution to your super, the government may match it with up to $500!

The Quick Facts:
• Income limits apply.
• No paperwork required.
• Eligibility: You must be under 71, earn 10%+ from work, and meet residency requirements.
Don't leave free money on the table! Reach out to see if you’re eligible.
⚠️ General Advice Warning: This information is general and doesn't consider your personal situation. Please seek professional advice before making financial decisions.

👉 Contact Suzy at Build Wealth Today to get started!

Ever wonder about the magic of compounding? ✨ The Rule of 72 is a powerful mental math trick to estimate how long it takes for an investment to double at a fixed annual rate of return. Simply divide 72 by your expected annual interest rate. For example, at 8% interest, your money would double in approximately 9 years (72/8=9)!

It's a fantastic reminder of the importance of starting early and letting time work its magic. What are your thoughts on this investing shortcut? Let's talk about building wealth today!

📢 The $50,000 "Free" Mistake

I was chatting with someone recently who was tempted by a "free" property investment service. It sounded easy. It sounded perfect. But in my industry, there is a hard truth: If you aren't paying for the advice, you are the product.
The Numbers Have Shifted
Since the recent regulatory changes and the January 1st education deadlines, the financial advice landscape in Australia has transformed. We’ve gone from 28,000 advisers down to under 12,000 holistic professionals today.
Those of us still standing are here because we met the highest standards of education and ethics in the country’s history. We aren't just "selling property"—we are managing your financial future.
Legal Accountability vs. Sales Pitches
There is a massive legal difference between a property marketer and a licensed Financial Adviser:
• My Role: As a dual-licensed professional, I have a Fiduciary Duty. I am legally required to act in your best interest. I provide a Statement of Advice (SOA)—a comprehensive legal document that proves the strategy is right for you.
• The "Marketer" Role: They are often paid commissions (sometimes $30k–$60k+) by developers to move specific stock. They are not legally required to consider your tax structure, your super, or your long-term debt strategy.

With fewer than 12,000 of us left to serve the country, independent advice is no longer a commodity; it’s a safeguard.
Always ask anyone giving you property advice: "Are you legally required to act in my best interest, and will you be providing a Statement of Advice?" The answer will tell you exactly who you are dealing with.

📉 Want to slash your tax bill using Super? 💸

If you haven't maxed out your super contributions in recent years, you could be sitting on a major tax deduction!
The "Catch-Up" rule allows you to use your leftover contribution caps from the last 5 years to lower your taxable income today.
🛑 The Key Rule:
Your total super balance must be under $500,000 as of 30 June of the previous financial year to qualify.
This is a powerhouse strategy if you’ve had a high-income year or a capital gain you want to offset.
🤝 Let’s get your strategy sorted:
Don't leave money on the table (or pay more tax than you need to!).
Contact me to see if you're eligible:
👤 Suzy Shepherd | Financial Planner

General info only—not personal advice. Consider if this is right for you.

Retirement isn't just about stopping work—it's about finally having the time for the things you love. 🥂✨
But what does it actually cost to keep a "comfortable" lifestyle going for a couple? According to the latest ASFA figures, the budget is now $76,505 a year.
Wait, do I need millions in the bank for that? Actually, no! A big misconception is that you have to fund that entire amount yourself.
The ASFA "Comfortable" target of $690,000 in super (combined) is designed to work with the government. It assumes:
✅ You draw down on your super savings.
✅ PLUS you receive a part Age Pension from the government.
✅ You own your home outright.
What does "comfortable" actually get you?
• Top-level private health insurance 🩺
• A reliable, decent car 🚗
• Annual domestic holidays + an overseas trip every few years ✈️
• Dining out at restaurants and regular social activities 🍽️

*General advice subject to your own personal needs and preferences

Even Santa feels the January pinch! 🎅💸
Don't let the joy of December turn into dread in January.
We all love the spirit of giving, but when the holiday magic fades and the credit card bills arrive next month, that "January hangover" can be very real.
As we head into the final festive rush, remember the best gift you can give yourself is financial peace of mind for 2026.
Let’s ensure your New Year’s financial resolutions stick this time. Book a chat with me before the year ends, and let’s create a plan that lets you enjoy the holidays without the January regret.

💰 The Financial Lesson I Learned From Crocs 🤮
Anyone who knows me knows how I feel about Crocs... (Let's just say they are my financial equivalent of a "risky asset.")
But here's the surprising lesson I learned about building wealth: It's a lot like wearing those ugly foam shoes.
1. People will judge you.
2. They look horrible to most people (but not to me, when I see my bank balance).
3. But you know what? For some they are totally functional and get the job done.
Stop worrying about what everyone else thinks your financial plan should look like. Find the plan that works for you—even if it seems a little "ugly" or unconventional to others—and stick with it!
Ready to put on your financial Crocs and comfortably walk toward freedom? 😉
👉 Suzy Shepherd - Wealth