by Amanda Cassar | Sep 8, 2026 | Money
Most of us would love to give more to the causes close to our hearts.
Perhaps a particular charity supported someone you love through cancer, dementia, disability or another serious illness. Maybe a community organisation helped your family during a difficult time. Or perhaps you have always cared deeply about children, medical research, animal welfare, education, the environment or alleviating poverty.
During our lifetime, however, generosity must sit alongside everyday realities. There are mortgages to pay, retirement to fund, healthcare costs to prepare for, the rising cost of living and family members who may need our support. Sometimes, we simply do not have the capacity to give as much as we would like.
A gift in your Will can offer another possibility.
A different way to make a difference
Include a Charity Week, held from 7–13 September 2026, encourages Australians to consider leaving a gift to charity in their Will.
It is a lovely reminder that philanthropy is not reserved for the very wealthy. A charitable gift does not need to be enormous to be meaningful, and it does not require you to part with money you may need during your lifetime.
Your first priority will usually be providing appropriately for your partner, children, other dependants and loved ones. After they have been considered, even a small portion of what remains could make a lasting difference to an organisation whose work matters deeply to you.
This might be:
- A percentage of your remaining estate
- One nominated sum of money
- Property, shares or another particular asset
- The remainder of your estate after your executor has paid expenses and distributed other gifts
Many people choose to leave a percentage rather than a fixed dollar amount. This allows the gift to adjust over time as the value of the estate changes, while maintaining the balance they intended between family and charity.
Turning a personal experience into something positive
For people and families touched by illness, a charitable legacy can feel especially meaningful.
You may not have been able to make a substantial donation while managing treatment costs, reduced income or the financial demands of caring for someone. Yet your Will can provide an opportunity to say:
This organisation mattered to our family. I would like its work to continue for someone else.
A gift might help fund research into a condition that affected someone you love. It might support another family facing a frightening diagnosis, provide equipment or respite care, or help ensure that people receive greater dignity and comfort at a vulnerable time.
It is not simply a financial transaction. It can be an expression of gratitude, hope and connection.
Your family and your values can both be part of your legacy
Leaving a gift to charity does not have to mean choosing between your family and the causes you care about.
For example, someone might leave most of their estate to family and allocate one, two or five per cent of the residual estate to a nominated charity. The right balance will be different for every person and should reflect your relationships, responsibilities, financial position and wishes.
It can also be worthwhile discussing your intentions with your family. Explaining why a cause matters to you can help loved ones understand that the gift is not something being taken away from them. It is part of the story, experiences and values you want to leave behind.
These conversations can even become an opportunity to share memories that family members may not otherwise know.
A few important practical steps
If you would like to include a charity in your Will:
- Choose the cause carefully. Consider the organisations whose work genuinely reflects your values or personal experiences.
- Check the charity’s details. Confirm its correct legal name and Australian Business Number. You can search registered charities through the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Charity Register.
- Speak with the charity. Many charities have suggested wording that helps ensure the gift reaches the intended organisation and can still be used if its name or structure changes in the future.
- Obtain legal advice. A solicitor can help draft the gift clearly, consider your obligations to family and reduce the risk of confusion or disputes.
- Review the rest of your estate plan. Your Will is only one part of the picture. Superannuation, binding death benefit nominations, jointly owned assets, trusts, companies and insurance proceeds may not automatically be distributed under your Will.
- Revisit your wishes over time. Your estate plan should be reviewed when relationships, health, finances or the charities you support change.
A legacy is about more than wealth
The word legacy can sound grand, but it is simply what continues because you were here.
It may be the values you taught your family, the people you helped, the stories told about you or the contribution you made to your community. A charitable gift in your Will is one way to extend that influence beyond your lifetime.
You do not need to be wealthy. You do not need to give away money you might need today. You only need to consider whether there is a cause you would be proud to have included in your final act of generosity.
This Include a Charity Week, reviewing your Will could be about more than deciding who receives what. It could also be an opportunity to reflect on what has mattered to you, whose work has touched your life, and what small piece of good you would like to continue into the future.
Philanthropy does not require enormous wealth, nor must you give away money you may need today. A charitable gift in your Will, whether large or small, can help something you care about continue well into the future. Reach out and contact the team at Wealth Planning Partners if you’d like to consider charitable giving as part of your overall plan.
This information is general in nature and does not take into account your individual circumstances. Estate planning can involve legal, financial and tax considerations. Please obtain appropriate legal and financial advice before changing your Will or broader estate plan.
by Amanda Cassar | Jul 14, 2026 | Advisers, Women
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has advised that a nationwide emergency alert test will be conducted in the near future.
During the test, compatible mobile phones may emit a loud emergency alert sound even if they are set to silent or “Do Not Disturb.” For most Australians, this will simply be an unexpected interruption. For some, however, it could present a genuine safety risk.
Hidden phones save lives
Many victim-survivors of domestic and family violence keep a second, hidden mobile phone.
This phone may be their only safe way to contact police, family, a lawyer, financial adviser, counsellor or support service. It may also contain evidence of abuse or documents needed to leave a violent relationship.
Its greatest protection is that the abusive partner doesn’t know it exists.
A loud emergency alert sounding unexpectedly could expose that phone and place its owner at significant risk.
If you or someone you know has a hidden safety phone
If you keep a concealed emergency phone, or know someone who does, it would be worth considering taking precautions before the scheduled test. Depending on individual circumstances, this may include:
- Turning the phone off during the test period.
- Placing it in Airplane Mode if appropriate.
- Checking whether it is stored somewhere secure where an unexpected alert won’t be heard.
- Ensuring it can be safely switched back on afterwards.
Every situation is different, so the safest option will depend on individual circumstances.
A reminder for professionals
If you work with vulnerable clients, including financial advisers, lawyers, accountants, social workers, community workers, domestic violence services or health professionals, please consider sharing this information with anyone who may have a hidden emergency phone.
Sometimes it’s the smallest, most unexpected events that create the greatest risk.
As someone who works extensively in financial abuse and vulnerability, I believe it’s important that we look beyond the technology itself and consider how it affects those living with coercive control.
A simple heads-up could help keep someone safe.
If you’d like to reach out regarding your personal financial situation, please don’t hesitate to call Wealth Planning Partners on 07 5593 0855.
by Amanda Cassar | Jun 4, 2026 | Advisers, Australian Economy, Finances, Money, Superannuation
EOFY Hot Tips for Australians: Smart Financial Moves Before 30 June
The weeks leading up to 30 June often create a rush of financial activity across Australia.
But EOFY planning does not need to be complicated or stressful.
Sometimes a handful of practical actions before year end can improve tax outcomes, strengthen cashflow and create better financial organisation heading into the new financial year.
Here are some EOFY hot tips worth considering.
1. Don’t Leave Everything Until the Final Week
Every year people attempt to:
- make super contributions
- finalise deductions
- organise records
- sell investments
- prepay expenses
…all in the last few days of June.
Unfortunately, banks, super funds and advisers also become extremely busy at EOFY.
If action is required, earlier is usually safer.
2. Review Capital Gains and Capital Losses
EOFY can be a good time to review investment portfolios.
Some investors may consider:
- crystallising gains strategically
- offsetting gains with losses
- reviewing underperforming investments
- rebalancing portfolios
Importantly, tax should not be the sole reason for making investment decisions.
But tax awareness can still be valuable.
3. Consider Deductible Expenses
Depending on circumstances, Australians may choose to bring forward certain deductible expenses before 30 June.
Examples may include:
- professional subscriptions
- self-education expenses
- investment-related expenses
- accounting fees
- interest expenses
- insurance premiums
Always confirm deductibility rules with an accountant or adviser before proceeding.
4. Small Business Owners Should Review Cashflow and Structures
EOFY is an excellent time for business owners to review:
- trust distributions
- wages and super obligations
- director loans
- business profitability
- asset purchases
- debt structures
- succession planning
Many business owners become so focused on daily operations that strategic reviews get delayed until EOFY forces the conversation.
5. Don’t Forget Minimum Pension Payments
Retirees drawing income from account-based pensions should ensure minimum pension requirements are met before 30 June.
Missing minimums can create significant tax consequences and administrative complications.
Leaving this until the final week can become risky if processing delays occur.
6. Review Your Estate Planning
EOFY often reminds people to review finances generally, which can also make it a useful time to revisit:
- wills
- enduring powers of attorney
- beneficiaries
- super death nominations
- digital records
- important documents
Financial organisation becomes increasingly important as life grows more complex.
7. Create a Financial “Reset” for the New Financial Year
Rather than treating EOFY purely as a tax exercise, consider using it as a financial reset point.
Ask yourself:
- What worked well financially this year?
- What created stress?
- What goals matter most next year?
- Am I spending intentionally?
- Do I understand where my money is going?
Sometimes clarity is more powerful than complexity.
Retirement Is Closer Than Many People Think
One of the more interesting conversations many advisers have at EOFY is this:
Some people discover they may actually be financially able to retire earlier than expected.
They simply had never properly modelled:
- superannuation
- future spending needs
- debt reduction
- investment income
- transition strategies
EOFY can be the perfect time to revisit what the next chapter of life could realistically look like.
Pause and Consider
Before 30 June:
- Have I maximised available opportunities?
- Have I reviewed my super and investments?
- Is my insurance still appropriate?
- Have I checked my estate planning?
- Am I entering the new financial year organised and intentional?
Final Thoughts
EOFY planning is not about chasing every deduction or making rushed decisions.
Good planning is usually calm, considered and aligned with long-term goals.
Even small financial improvements repeated consistently over time can create meaningful results. Reach out to your accountant or Financial Adviser or the team at Wealth Planning Partners before June 30 to discuss your needs.
by Amanda Cassar | May 29, 2026 | Advisers, Australian Economy, Superannuation
As the end of financial year approaches, many Australians start scrambling for receipts, tax deductions and last-minute financial decisions. But one of the most powerful areas to review before 30 June is your superannuation.
The right strategies implemented before EOFY can potentially improve your retirement savings, reduce tax and strengthen long-term financial security.
Here are some key areas worth reviewing.
1. Check Your Concessional Contribution Position
Concessional contributions include:
- employer SG contributions
- salary sacrifice contributions
- personal deductible contributions
For many Australians, these contributions are taxed at just 15% inside super, which can be significantly lower than personal marginal tax rates.
The general concessional contribution cap remains one of the most useful EOFY planning opportunities.
You may also be able to use unused concessional cap amounts from previous years under the carry-forward contribution rules if:
- your total super balance is below the relevant threshold, and
- you have unused cap space available.
This can create a valuable opportunity for higher-income years, business sales, bonuses or unusually strong cashflow years.
2. Consider a Personal Tax-Deductible Contribution
Many people still don’t realise they can personally contribute to super and potentially claim a tax deduction.
This can be particularly valuable for:
- self-employed Australians
- small business owners
- those with irregular income
- people who have sold investments or assets during the year
- employees wanting to top up contributions late in the year
Remember:
- the contribution must hit the super fund before 30 June
- a Notice of Intent to Claim form generally needs to be lodged and acknowledged before lodging your tax return
Timing matters. Super funds can take several days to process contributions.
3. Don’t Forget Spouse Contributions
EOFY can also be a good time to review family super balances.
Strategies may include:
These strategies may assist with:
- future retirement flexibility
- estate planning
- transfer balance cap management
- tax outcomes over time
4. Government Co-Contributions Can Still Help
Lower and middle-income earners may be eligible for a government co-contribution when making a personal non-concessional contribution to super.
Even a relatively small contribution may trigger additional money from the government if eligibility requirements are met.
It is one of the few areas where the government may effectively reward proactive retirement savings behaviour.
5. Review Investment Options Inside Super
EOFY is also a useful reminder to review:
- investment options
- insurance inside super
- beneficiaries
- fees
- old duplicate accounts
Many Australians remain in default investment options for years without reviewing whether those options still suit their stage of life, risk tolerance or retirement goals.
Importantly, retirement may last 20–30 years or more.
Being “too conservative” too early can sometimes create its own long-term risks.
6. Small Business Owners Have Additional Opportunities
Small business owners may have access to additional contribution strategies linked to:
- business profits
- business sale proceeds
- CGT concessions
- trust distributions
These areas can become highly technical and often require coordinated tax and financial advice before implementation.
Pause and Consider
Before 30 June ask yourself:
- Have I fully used available super contribution opportunities?
- Am I paying unnecessary tax outside super?
- Is my super invested appropriately for my long-term goals?
- Have I reviewed insurance and beneficiaries recently?
- Would a contribution now improve my future retirement flexibility?
Final Thoughts
EOFY planning should not simply be about “doing something for tax”.
The best strategies are usually those that improve long-term financial position while also creating tax efficiency along the way.
Sometimes even relatively small actions before 30 June can create meaningful long-term differences over decades.
And occasionally, people discover through proper financial advice that retirement may actually be closer than they originally thought. Contact the WPP Team today to book your next appointment.
by Amanda Cassar | Feb 9, 2026 | Finances, Financial Stress, Insurance & Protection
What Valentine’s Day doesn’t talk about
Valentine’s Day is usually wrapped in flowers, cards and dinner reservations. It’s almost here again – to celebrate romance, connection and the people we love most.
But there’s another side of love we don’t talk about enough.
The quieter kind.
The practical kind.
The kind that shows up when life doesn’t go to plan.
Protection.
Love isn’t just how you feel
It’s what you put in place.
When we work with families, couples and individuals, one thing is clear:
the most loving decisions are often invisible on the surface.
They don’t look like grand gestures.
They look like preparation.
They look like:
• Making sure a partner could cope financially if you weren’t here tomorrow
• Putting a will in place so decisions aren’t left to chance or conflict
• Ensuring income protection or insurance means illness doesn’t become crisis
• Having clear structures so adult children aren’t left guessing or arguing
• Protecting independence and dignity as we age
• Creating safeguards so money supports wellbeing, not control or fear
None of that feels romantic in the moment.
But it is profoundly loving.
Protection says: “I’ve thought about you, even when it’s uncomfortable.”
Real life is messy.
People get sick.
Relationships change.
Care roles shift.
Longevity brings both opportunity and complexity.
Planning for those realities isn’t pessimistic.
It’s respectful.
It says:
“I don’t want you burdened with uncertainty.”
“I don’t want decisions made under stress.”
“I want you protected, not scrambling.”
Love also means protecting yourself
This matters too.
Protection isn’t only about partners or family.
It’s about ensuring you have choices.
Especially for women, carers, older Australians and those who have stepped back from paid work, financial vulnerability can creep in quietly.
Healthy love supports independence.
Healthy planning preserves autonomy.
Healthy protection creates options.
The most meaningful gift isn’t chocolate 🍫
It’s peace of mind.
It’s knowing someone has thought beyond today.
It’s knowing structures are in place.
It’s knowing love doesn’t disappear when circumstances change.
This Valentine’s Day, alongside the flowers and cards, ask a different question:
If something unexpected happened, would the people I love be okay?
If the answer is “I’m not sure,” that’s not a failure.
It’s simply an invitation to start.
Because protection, at its core, is love that lasts.
If you’d like to review your protection strategies to best protect those you love, reach out to the team at Wealth Planning Partners to discuss your needs on 07 5593 0855.
