Australian Finance Podcast

In this Friday episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Gemma Mitchell and Owen Rask unpack your questions on investing, super, HECS and even a Christmas dilemma. This week we look at how to build a simple investment profile when you’re 58 and deciding between ETFs in super or outside of it, how paid parental leave really works in 2026, and what to do when your HECS balance never seems to budge. We also cover how to help a level headed 16 year old get started with investing, plus a common holiday question many families face. Do you stick to the Secret Santa limit, or match everyone else who’s blowing the budget? This episode also includes quick updates on HECS indexation changes, the Bureau of Meteorology blowout, and what it means for your hip pocket. Owen and Gemma cover: - How to compare investing inside super versus a direct ETF portfolio when you’re 58, earning well and contributing regularly - Why non concessional contributions can be powerful in your late 50s, and the key rules to understand - How employer paid parental leave works alongside the government scheme, how long each runs for, and how to apply - When HECS repayments start, why your balance might not be falling, and whether paying extra makes sense - How to teach teens the basics of investing, the best beginner podcasts, and easy ways to start with $15k - Whether you should stick to the Secret Santa limit or spend more, and how to set boundaries without killing the vibe - Updates on HECS balances, indexation, the BOM budget blowout and what it means for everyday Australians If you like this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, make sure you hit follow on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. And don’t forget to send in your questions for future Q&As using the link in the show notes. Resources for this episode Sign up for the newsletter Sign up for Rask Core Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset” Ask a question (select the Finance podcast) Show partner resources Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith View Betashares range of funds 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 conversation, Tahli Cavagnino, a retirement specialist and creator of Rask's Retirement Mastery course, shares her insights on navigating retirement planning. She highlights common misconceptions that leave many feeling overwhelmed and unprepared. Listeners learn the importance of engaging with superannuation early, the myth of 'it'll sort itself out,' and strategies for balancing income and capital growth. Tahli also addresses the implications of granny flat arrangements and the asset-rich, cash-poor scenario many retirees face.

Get a head start on your financial goals! Discover how cleaning up unused accounts can simplify your finances. Focus on tackling one area of money stress to make a significant impact. Learn the importance of tracking your net worth regularly to motivate progress. Gemma and Pete emphasize the value of setting clear, achievable goals instead of overwhelming yourself with long-term plans. It's all about taking practical steps now for a brighter financial future in 2026!

Cameron Gleeson, Senior Investment Strategist at BetaShares, breaks down the nuances of gearing and ETFs. He explains how BetaShares' Wealth Builder range utilizes leverage to potentially accelerate wealth, comparing moderate and high gearing strategies. Gleeson addresses the risks associated with gearing and clarifies how it functions within superannuation. Listeners learn about the tax benefits tied to ETF borrowing and the importance of assessing risk tolerance before diving into geared ETFs. This conversation is packed with practical investing insights for all levels!

Discover the crucial money decisions for your 50s, including how to manage super and property for retirement. Learn about the pros and cons of pausing salary sacrifice to fund a home. Dive into debt recycling tactics and the pitfalls to avoid. Explore the behavioral advantages of investing in property over shares. Gemma highlights the importance of financial education in schools and how to handle deposits when income is uncertain. Plus, strategies for investing with a shorter life expectancy in mind.

Discover how to confidently research ETFs with a five-step checklist! Learn to define an ETF's goal, identify hidden fees, and scrutinize its holdings. Understand tracking differences, performance comparisons, and the importance of size and liquidity. Explore real ETF examples and uncover why diversification is key. Plus, get practical tips for beginners to avoid costly mistakes and start investing smartly.

In this discussion, Hayden Smith, co-founder and CTO of Pearler, dives into the intersection of AI and finance. He shares his unconventional wisdom teeth money-saving story and explores how personal finance parallels skill-building. Hayden discusses the impact of AI on investing tools, revealing the pitfalls of overengineering in fintech. He explains 'vibe coding' and its implications for software development while offering career advice for navigating the challenging AI landscape. Expect valuable insights on simple investing and the future of financial apps!

This discussion tackles the intriguing issue of zero-fee super funds and the hidden risks they may hide. The hosts explore what a reasonable turnaround time for financial advisers looks like and how to maintain effective communication. They ease market crash fears with strategies for reassuring those anxious about financial downturns. Additionally, they clarify the implications of becoming ineligible for FHSS contributions. Lastly, they define the ‘cost of opening your front door’ and its importance in understanding daily financial needs.

Emma Edwards, a financial behavior expert and author of 'The Wardrobe Project,' shares her insights on smart spending. She discusses how to identify personal spending values through past purchases. Edwards explains triggers that lead to unhelpful buying decisions and presents her ultimate rule for avoiding unnecessary purchases. She introduces the ins and outs budgeting method to enjoy discretionary spending without overspending. Finally, she suggests a frugal reset week to recalibrate financial habits and boost discretionary funds.

In this engaging discussion, David Gardner, co-founder of The Motley Fool and author of Rule Breaker Investing, shares his insights on growth investing. He argues that individual investors can outperform the market by embracing a 'lose to win' philosophy, allowing for occasional losses to capture significant gains. David outlines six traits of rule-breaking companies, such as being a top dog and first mover. He also touches on conscious capitalism and the importance of aligning investments with a purposeful vision for the future, while emphasizing that AI is an accelerator, not a replacement for human judgment.