Australian Retirement Podcast

We’re bringing back Owen Rask’s conversation with financial adviser Tahli Cavagnino about five money mistakes that can follow us into retirement. A plan might look sound on a spreadsheet, but how do fear, uncertainty and old habits affect the decisions we actually make? If you missed this conversation the first time, it’s a practical reminder that retirement decisions are about behaviour as well as numbers. This is a replay of an earlier recording; any references to current market conditions reflect that original conversation. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest Disclaimer The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at www.rask.com.au/fsg. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Could you retire next year with a mortgage, an investment property and two different super balances? In this Australian Retirement Podcast episode, Owen Rask and financial adviser Tahli Cavagnino work through a hypothetical couple’s plan, showing why retirement is less about one magic number and more about the order of decisions. David and Michelle hope to stop work in June 2027. Their home still has a mortgage; they also hold super, shares, savings, an investment property with a loan, and cash in David’s company. Tahli begins not with an investment product, but with the question that shapes every other step: what will they actually need to spend? She separates regular bills, discretionary spending and one-off costs so the couple can see what their money has to do. Next comes replacing the pay cheque. Owen and Tahli compare the income the couple’s assets may produce with the costs of holding them, including the property’s loan. They then consider which pool of money might meet each goal: clearing the home mortgage, selling the investment property, drawing from shares or super, and planning the company’s cash withdrawals with an accountant. Timing and tax need individual advice, not guesswork. Tahli’s final steps are to protect money needed soon while keeping longer-term funds invested, and to plan for both partners rather than treating their super balances and ages as interchangeable. Owen adds a practical sixth step: get every asset, debt and super account onto one page. If retirement is on your horizon, this case study offers a clear starting point for better questions—not a personalised financial plan. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest Disclaimer The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at www.rask.com.au/fsg. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens if you retire and the share market falls just as you start drawing on your savings? On the Australian Retirement Podcast, Owen Rask and Tahli Cavagnino unpack the three-bucket retirement strategy: a way to think about spending now, keeping a reserve and investing for a longer retirement. They begin with the shift from earning a salary to relying on a portfolio. Tahli explains sequencing risk: selling investments to meet living costs during a market downturn can make a recovery harder. The first bucket covers near-term spending needs, often with a cash buffer. But holding too much in cash can bring its own risks, including inflation and missed long-term growth. The second bucket is the defensive reserve, where bonds and other income-focused assets may help support the cash bucket. The third is for longer-term growth, commonly including shares. Owen and Tahli work through a hypothetical couple’s retirement spending to show how the buckets interact, when they might be topped up and why a poor market year requires a different response from a strong one. This is not a set-and-forget formula. The hosts discuss how to review and rebalance, what happens if bonds and shares fall together, and the trade-offs for people managing their own super. They also explain why a bucket strategy may be possible within an industry fund without opening multiple accounts, although the options and effort required vary. If you are approaching retirement or already drawing an income, this conversation offers a clearer framework for the questions to take to your super fund or financial adviser — and a reminder that peace of mind matters alongside the numbers. Episode resources – ⁠Accounts Leaderboard: Compare the latest Australian savings account interest rates⁠ – ⁠Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast)⁠ Show partner resources – ⁠Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit⁠ – ⁠Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe⁠ Rask resources – ⁠All services⁠ – ⁠Financial Planning⁠ – ⁠Invest with us⁠ – ⁠Access Show Notes⁠ – ⁠Ask a question⁠ – ⁠We love feedback!⁠ Follow us on social media – Instagram: ⁠@rask.invest⁠ – TikTok: ⁠@rask.invest⁠ Disclaimer The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at ⁠www.rask.com.au/fsg⁠. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will Australian property prices recover in 2027—or is another round of rate pressure still ahead? In this Australian Retirement Podcast episode, Owen Rask sits down with Chris Bates, mortgage broker and co-host of the Australian Property Podcast, to explore how the housing cycle affects retirees, parents helping adult children and first-home buyers. Chris explains why any rebound depends heavily on interest rates and why a national headline can hide very different conditions in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. They discuss fewer quality listings, housing supply bottlenecks and why buyers can lose negotiating power before reported prices show a turn. For parents and grandparents, the question is bigger than timing the market. They unpack the ‘bank of mum and dad’: gifting versus lending a deposit, what happens if a relationship breaks down, and why helping someone buy the wrong property could create new risks. They also examine the 5% deposit scheme without assuming a smaller deposit makes every home a good purchase. If retirement is approaching, Owen and Chris consider whether to keep an investment property, support family now, improve a home-loan buffer or talk to a specialist about broader options. Quality, cash flow and the structure of any family assistance matter as much as a price forecast. Listen for a practical conversation about preparing for uncertain rates, spotting the property decisions within your control and asking better questions before making a move. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest Disclaimer The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at www.rask.com.au/fsg. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you leaving retirement to chance—or letting an assumption quietly shape a decision you may regret? In this episode of the Australian Retirement Podcast, Owen Rask and financial adviser Tahli Cavagnino turn seven common retirement mistakes into practical questions you can ask today. They begin with planning too late: why waiting until 60 can leave less time to adjust your savings, super and spending expectations. From there, they question the idea that property will always deliver the same growth and income, especially if too much wealth is tied up in one asset. Owen and Tahli look at the risks of carrying debt into retirement without a repayment strategy, reacting too quickly to tax headlines, and counting on shares to deliver a fixed return every year. They explain why understanding trade-offs and diversifying across assets matters more than predicting exactly what markets or policy will do next. They also tackle the quieter mistake of doing nothing because the choices feel overwhelming. A smaller first step—checking your super, reviewing debt or mapping a retirement budget—can be more useful than waiting for a perfect plan. Finally, they explore why retirement costs are rarely a straight line: travel, health and aged care can arrive at different times. Planning for later-life expenses matters, but so does giving yourself permission to enjoy the years you have now. Listen for a calmer, more flexible way to prepare for retirement without letting fear make every decision. Episode resources – ⁠⁠ASFA Comfortable Retirement Standards⁠ – ⁠Rask Wealth Checker – ⁠Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast)⁠ Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest Disclaimer The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at www.rask.com.au/fsg. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Australian Retirement Podcast, Owen Rask sits down with Kanish Chugh from PIMCO to explain why bonds are back — and how retirees can build income without asking one asset to do every job. After a decade in which low interest rates pushed many Australians towards shares and property, fixed income is offering a more meaningful source of income again. Owen and Kanish compare bonds with term deposits, franked dividends and hybrids, then unpack how government and corporate bonds can contribute income, liquidity, diversification and capital stability. They also revisit the classic 60/40 portfolio. What happens when the “forgotten 40%” starts working again? And why do professional investors often prefer active management in bonds even when they use index funds for shares? The conversation covers the risks that matter most in retirement: inflation and purchasing power, sequencing withdrawals during market falls, concentration in property or equities, liquidity, and the possibility that retirement lasts 20 to 30 years. Kanish also explains why each part of a portfolio should have one clear job, with a growth engine and a separate income engine. If you’re approaching retirement, already drawing an income, or reviewing whether your portfolio is genuinely retirement-ready, this episode offers a practical framework for balancing reliable income, long-term growth and risk. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest Disclaimer The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at www.rask.com.au/fsg. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What actually happens to your super when you retire? ⁠Try our free wealth checker tool⁠ ⁠Get financial advice⁠ It sounds like there should be a giant red button that says “retirement mode” — but, as usual with super, it’s a little more paperwork-y than that. In this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, also shared on The Australian Retirement Podcast, Owen is joined by Tahli Cavagnino, Senior Financial Adviser and co-head of financial advice at Rask Advice, to unpack what happens to your super as you move towards retirement. General advice warning: This episode contains general information and general advice only. Please consider your own circumstances and seek professional advice before making financial decisions. We cover when you can generally access your super, what “pension mode” actually means, how super can be taxed before and after retirement, and some of the big trade-offs people face as they approach retirement. Plus, we answer listener questions on indexed versus active high growth super options, whether people typically change funds when moving into pension phase, and whether you still need an emergency fund once you can access your super. In this episode – Owen’s news of the week: why you shouldn’t rush changing super funds – The importance of reading the PDS/TMD and checking the AFSL before acting – When Australians can generally access their super – What it means to turn your super into “pension mode” – Is it a button, a form, a phone call — or all of the above? – A simple overview of tax on super before and after retirement – Why defined benefit funds can be different – Minimum pension drawdown rates explained – Do most people withdraw only the minimum from super? – The retirement mortgage question: super versus debt – Super versus investing outside super if you want to retire before 60 – Indexed high growth versus active high growth super options – Whether different super funds suit different life stages – Whether you still need an emergency fund once super is accessible Listener questions – Hot Takes: “For a long-term investor choosing a high growth option inside super, what should they think about when comparing indexed high growth and active high growth managed by the super fund?” – Barren Jo: “You’ve mentioned that different style super funds may suit people at different stages. Can you explain this more? Do people typically change super funds when switching to pension mode, and if so, why?” – WannabeWhale: “Is an emergency fund necessary when you have access to your super?” Episode resources – ⁠Rask Retirement Academy⁠ – ⁠Free report: 5 ways business owners can get back 5 hours a week using AI⁠ – ⁠Join the free Rask newsletter and platform⁠ – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Want to keep learning? If you’re trying to get your money sorted — without needing a finance degree and three coffees — ⁠⁠join the free Rask newsletter and platform⁠⁠ You’ll get practical money lessons, investing explainers, retirement resources and tools to help you make better financial decisions over time. Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest Disclaimer The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at www.rask.com.au/fsg. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Australian Retirement Podcast episode, Drew Meredith and James O’Reilly unpack four retirement issues that could affect how Australians access the Age Pension, choose a super fund and manage investment risk. First, they examine a proposal for better data sharing between Centrelink and super funds. Easier, pre-filled Age Pension applications could help eligible retirees claim sooner, but giving funds a broader picture of your finances also raises questions about privacy, product sales and who benefits from the data. They also discuss whether people in physically demanding careers—such as nurses, tradies and other manual workers—should qualify for the Age Pension before age 67. The idea may sound fair, but the hosts explore the cost, complexity and unintended incentives that could follow. Next, Drew and James look at renewed scrutiny of self-managed super funds. SMSFs can offer control and flexibility, yet lower balances, aggressive sales tactics and unsuitable investments can leave members carrying more cost and responsibility than they expected. Finally, a listener asks why a “balanced” super option can still hold 81% in growth assets. The hosts explain how labels differ between funds, what growth and defensive assets actually mean, and the long-term return ranges investors might expect as risk rises. It is a practical reminder that a fund’s name matters far less than what is inside it. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest Disclaimer The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at www.rask.com.au/fsg. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Australian Retirement Podcast, Drew Meredith and James O'Reilly unpack the latest Delivering Better Financial Outcomes, or DBFO, changes and why retirees should care. This episode looks past the political acronym to the real decisions facing Australians who want affordable advice, better super prompts and fewer traps as they move into retirement. Drew and James explain how the reforms could reshape the way advisers charge fees, renew ongoing service agreements and communicate with clients. They also trace how the reforms have evolved since the Hayne Royal Commission and why progress has felt painfully slow. The conversation then turns to why nudges from super funds and providers matter more than most people think, especially for people who may be eligible for the Age Pension or who have not yet switched super into pension phase when it would make sense to investigate it. They also tackle the darker side of the system: cold-calling lead generation, poor incentives and the practical risks around self-managed super funds. To finish, they answer a listener question on whether paying for a platform inside an SMSF is worth it, or whether staying DIY can still be the better move. If you want a calm, practical read on the latest advice reforms, this episode is a smart place to start. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Australian Retirement Podcast, Drew Meredith and James O'Reilly begin with a stat that cuts through the noise: retirement confidence has fallen sharply, even after a strong year for investment markets. They unpack why rising living costs still dominate how pre-retirees feel, why good returns do not always create peace of mind, and why confidence is as much an emotional question as a financial one. They also discuss the surprising gap between seeing an adviser and actually feeling ready for retirement. From there, the conversation turns to property. Drew and James explore whether the old playbook of leveraging into investment properties still holds up for people approaching retirement, especially as negative gearing, capital gains tax settings and holding costs come under more pressure. Rather than making a dramatic crash call, they focus on the practical trade-offs between income, flexibility, debt, and the opportunity cost of keeping too much wealth tied to one asset class when other income options are improving. The episode finishes with a practical listener question on inherited shares, cost bases and how age pension status can change the tax outcome. If you are weighing up retirement timing, asset sales, or how policy shifts could affect your long-term plan, this episode offers a grounded framework for the questions worth asking next. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Australian Retirement Podcast, Owen Rask sits down with Ryan Dinsdale from Deposit Power to unpack a part of the property journey that can quietly shape retirement decisions: how downsizers bridge the gap between selling one home and buying the next. Ryan explains why the real challenge is rarely just finding the right property. It is timing the two transactions, freeing up enough equity, and avoiding a rushed decision that leaves cash sitting idle or forces a more expensive financing option. The conversation compares the usual paths people think about, including selling first, buying first and using a bridging loan, before breaking down how a deposit bond works as an alternative. They also explore when a deposit bond may suit retirees and pre-retirees buying off the plan, bidding at auction or trying to keep money in an offset, investments or super for longer. Just as importantly, Ryan walks through the trade-offs, the application process, the fee structure and the safeguards that help buyers understand what they are actually signing up for. If you are thinking about downsizing, helping family move, or simply want a clearer way to think about deposits, liquidity and flexibility, this episode will give you a practical framework to start with. This episode was proudly sponsored by Deposit Power. Episode resources – ⁠Deposit Power website⁠ – ⁠Deposit Power fee calculator⁠ – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Australian Retirement Podcast episode, James O'Reilly and Drew Meredith unpack one of the biggest retirement planning mistakes: assuming your spending stays flat for decades. They explain why retirement expenses are rarely linear, why some costs fall away while others creep higher, and how that can change the timing of when you can comfortably stop working. The episode opens with the latest super fund return numbers and a reminder not to confuse one strong year with a long-term plan. From there, James and Drew tackle the explosion in ETF choices on the ASX. They explain why lower fees and easier access have improved investing, but also why too much choice can create new risks for retirees and near-retirees, especially when thematic products make it easy to chase stories instead of strategy. The episode also gets practical about spending. Housing, travel, health costs and helping adult children can all shape retirement in ways spreadsheets often miss. They share a useful framework for separating essential spending from discretionary spending so you can see what is fixed, what can move, and what trade-offs are actually available. They finish with a listener question on excess super contributions, explaining what happens if you breach the cap, how the ATO process works today, and why the right response is usually to stay calm and deal with it methodically. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Australian Retirement Podcast, Drew Meredith and James O'Reilly unpack ASIC’s latest report into adviser fees and the growing pressure on super platforms to prove clients are getting fair value. It’s a timely conversation for retirees, pre-retirees and business owners who are wondering what financial advice should cost, what good oversight looks like, and how to ask sharper questions before signing on. Drew and James explore why platform-based fee deductions have become such a focus, what ASIC appears to be targeting, and how poor-value advice can still slip through even in a heavily regulated system. They also break down the tension between cost and value: why the cheapest adviser is not always the best fit, why specialised advice often costs more, and what investors should expect to receive in return. The episode finishes with a practical listener question from a couple comparing two very different advice proposals. If you’ve ever wondered whether an upfront fee is too high, how ongoing fees should be judged, or what outcomes an adviser should be able to show in year one, this conversation will help you think more clearly before making a decision. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe EOFY deals to know about - ending June/July 2026 – 1 free trade per month, for 12 months, for new Pearler customers Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Australian Retirement Podcast, Owen Rask sits down with Kanish Chugh, Head of ETF Sales at PIMCO Australia, to unpack why higher interest rates are changing the case for defensive assets. They explore why bonds are no longer the 'boring' part of a portfolio, what today's yield environment means for retirees and income-focused investors, and why the starting yield on fixed income matters more than many people realise. Owen and Kanish break down the trade-offs between savings accounts, term deposits and cash ETFs, including why liquidity, monthly distributions and portfolio role matter just as much as headline yield. They also explain how short-duration strategies differ from longer-duration bond exposures, why retirees often need a clearer cash plan than accumulators, and how fixed income can reduce the need to sell growth assets in weak markets. If you're building a retirement income plan, managing a cash bucket or simply trying to understand where fixed income fits in 2026, this conversation offers a practical framework for researching your next move. Kanish also shares the PIMCO products and fixed income ideas investors can add to a watchlist and explains why now may be one of the most compelling periods in years to revisit bonds, cash-plus strategies and diversified defensive exposure. Episode resources – PIMCO - EARN – PIMCO - PGBF – PIMCO - PDFI – PIMCO - PAUS – PIMCO - PCRD – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe EOFY deals to know about - ending June/July 2026 – 1 free trade per month, for 12 months, for new Pearler customers Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: The information in this episode is provided by The Rask Group Pty Ltd and contains general financial product advice only. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting, consider whether the information is appropriate for you and consider seeking personal advice from a licensed financial adviser. You can read our Financial Services Guide at www.rask.com.au/fsg. If a financial product is mentioned, consider the relevant PDS and TMD, where applicable, before making any financial decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Returns are not guaranteed and capital may be at risk. The Rask Group Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 1280930 of Rask Licensing Pty Ltd, AFSL 563 907. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Australian Retirement Podcast hosts James O'Reilly and Drew Meredith step away from base-case planning and ask a harder question: what could genuinely go wrong for retirees if markets stop behaving? They unpack three plausible stress scenarios investors should understand: sticky inflation that keeps bond yields high and squeezes equity valuations, private-market pressure that exposes illiquidity and stretched assumptions, and a geopolitical shock from oil to Taiwan that hits supply chains, sentiment and portfolio returns all at once. The point is not to predict disaster, but to understand the chain reaction before fear takes over. Then they bring it back to real life with two thoughtful listener questions. First, what should a 60-year-old do after inheriting $500,000 when the pull between enjoying life, helping the kids and protecting retirement feels impossible to balance? Second, if retirement is only two years away, is it smarter to pay down the mortgage aggressively or lean harder into super when both peace of mind and tax efficiency matter? If you want a practical framework for thinking about downside risk, optionality and the decisions that matter most in the final stretch before retirement, this episode is a smart place to start. It is a grounded conversation about staying flexible without becoming paralysed by every scary headline. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe EOFY deals to know about - ending June/July 2026 – 1 free trade per month, for 12 months, for new Pearler customers Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Australian Retirement Podcast hosts James O'Reilly and Drew Meredith tackle a problem that quietly traps a lot of retirees and pre-retirees: when a great investment becomes too big to ignore, but selling feels impossible because of capital gains tax. Using familiar names like CSL and Cochlear, they unpack why tax fear can keep people stuck in overexposed positions long after the risk has changed. The real question is not whether paying CGT hurts. It does. The better question is whether holding an undiversified portfolio is even more dangerous when one position starts to dominate your retirement plan and your future income. From there, Drew and James widen the lens to the property market, why some investors underestimate downturn risk, and how high rates, weak clearance rates and stretched affordability could shape the next chapter for housing. They also explain why property often gets more emotional leeway than shares, simply because it is not repriced in front of us every day. The episode also moves from theory to action, covering when debt reduction can beat extra investing, when additional super contributions deserve a closer look, and why understanding your cash flow matters more than most people think. If you want a clearer framework for balancing tax, diversification, super and cash in the years before retirement, this episode is a smart place to start. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe EOFY deals to know about - ending June/July 2026 – 1 free trade per month, for 12 months, for new Pearler customers Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Australian Retirement Podcast, James O'Reilly and Drew Meredith walk through the biggest financial-year changes retirees, pre-retirees and business owners should be thinking about right now. The conversation covers the flood of FY27 planning questions now landing on advisers’ desks, from family trust rules and negative gearing changes to contribution caps, transfer balance caps and the practical reality of Div 296. James and Drew explain what is already changing, what is only proposed, and where people should be planning ahead rather than panicking. They unpack the implications of minimum tax proposals for discretionary trusts, the changing case for property, why payday super matters more than many people realise, and how asset location could become more important for people with larger balances inside and outside super. The episode also answers two practical listener questions: how reversionary pensions work inside an SMSF when Div 296 is in the mix, and whether long service leave is better taken as a lump sum, at full pay or at half pay when retirement is close. If you want a clear, grounded guide to the new financial year and the retirement planning decisions that may matter most over the next 12 months, this episode is a strong place to start. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit EOFY deals to know about - ending June/July 2026 – 1 free trade per month, for 12 months, for new Pearler customers Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Australian Retirement Podcast, Drew Meredith and James O'Reilly unpack the latest retreat from the Federal Budget's most controversial tax changes and what it means for retirees, pre-retirees and business owners trying to plan ahead. They explain why the government eased back on small-business CGT concessions, what the clarification on testamentary trusts really fixes, and why the age pension carve-out could become one of the most important strategic details in the whole package. The conversation then shifts to the Greens' push to ban SMSF borrowing for residential property, including why that proposal matters for rental supply, investor behaviour and the broader retirement planning landscape. Rather than stopping at headlines, Drew and James focus on the behavioural fallout: how people may respond when tax rules change, why good policy can still create bad incentives, and what retirees need to watch before making major moves with property, trusts or super. They also answer a practical listener question from a couple in their 60s weighing up an approaching retirement: should they prioritise smashing the mortgage or shovel as much as possible into super, and is an SMSF with listed assets still worth the cost once work winds down? If you want a clearer, calmer read on the Budget walk-backs, super strategy and the real retirement decisions sitting underneath the politics, this is a timely episode to queue up. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit EOFY deals to know about - ending June/July 2026 – $200 bonus for opening your first TermPlus account with $20k or more with code “EOFY26” – 1 free trade per month, for 12 months, for new Pearler customers Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Australian Retirement Podcast, Drew Meredith is joined by Caite Brewer, a Queensland barrister who specialises in wills, estate disputes and superannuation. They unpack the estate-planning mistakes that can create years of conflict after someone dies, including DIY wills, informal wills, probate disputes, family provision claims and poor communication inside families. Caite explains why a will written on a napkin can sometimes still be valid, what solemn form probate actually means, and why executors, blended families and warring siblings can end up in court for years. The conversation also dives into superannuation, binding death nominations and family trusts. Drew and Caite explore why super is often treated differently from the rest of an estate, how small SMSF paperwork errors can derail a plan, and why specialist advice matters when family wealth is spread across wills, trusts and super. They also discuss elder abuse, the warning signs families miss, and the practical steps that reduce the risk of disputes. The biggest takeaway is simple: communicate early, keep documents current and get proper estate-planning advice before a crisis forces the issue. If you want a clearer understanding of wills, inheritance disputes, probate, super death benefits and the real-world risks of poor succession planning, this episode is a practical starting point. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Australian Retirement Podcast episode, James O'Reilly and Drew Meredith unpack a side of retirement planning spreadsheets cannot solve: what happens when you stop working. Using four retirement archetypes - stayers, leavers, blenders and the disengaged - they explain why people can thrive after leaving work or feel flat, isolated and directionless even when the money looks fine on paper. The conversation then turns to the practical friction many Australians underestimate. Drew explains why getting money out of an SMSF can take longer than expected, why interim accounts and asset valuations matter, and why winding up or rolling out a fund is rarely as simple as pressing sell. They also tackle the emotional side of the transition, including how connected you are to your current work and how ready you are for what comes next. James and Drew round it out with listener questions on growth versus defensive assets at 75, reversionary pensions, and what a surviving spouse needs to think about if a death benefit may push them over the transfer balance cap. If you are planning retirement or wondering whether your SMSF still makes sense, this episode offers a clearer framework for both the lifestyle and structural decisions that come with leaving work. Episode resources – Ask a question (select the Retirement podcast) Show partner resources – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices