Theo Marinis CFP

If you are a Commonwealth public servant on a #DefinedBenefitScheme & expect to retire soon, there are many issues which make a significant difference to your #superannuation balance. Read articles on 54/11 etc. at marinisgroup.com.au/our-services/d…

Make an effort to become financially savvy – it is the best way to guard against potential institutional and other rorts.

When seeking #advice consider using a #FinancialPlanning firm which operates under its own AFSL, not one which dances to someone else’s tune.

Fee for service is the only fair way to charge for #FinancialPlanning and insurance advice. #RoyalCommission

We need a Banking Royal Commission review every three years to ‘keep the bastards honest.’

Get Rich Quick schemes are so named because that is what happens to their promoters. I believe in getting rich slowly, and staying rich.

Defined benefit super schemes have great benefits, and great weaknesses. Get advice on how to maximise your opportunities. #DBS #Superannuation

54/11 remains the greatest gift to eligible, retiring federal public servants. Speak to your financial adviser though, don’t just follow the herd.

If there is an age difference between partners, speak to your financial adviser about arbitrage opportunities when it comes to #retirement.

#LifeInsurance is not ‘cool’ - but dying unexpectedly and leaving the family bankrupt is worse.

Don’t upgrade your drive if you get a bonus, put it in your #superannuation. You can then have a flash car in retirement - and the cash to drive it to your favourite restaurant … and buy lunch and drinks for your family.

Don’t forget to get #TraumaInsurance, particularly for stay at home partners. Replacing their contribution to the family would be very expensive.

Employers often don’t realise many contractors are eligible for #superannuation. Look at the ATO website and use the tool. It is an obligation to pay, not an option.

Successful companies should consider extra #superannuation contributions during maternity leave in order to attract female employees back into the workforce. They will save money on recruitment and training, as well as ensuring their valued employee gets a good retirement.

Grandparents should consider a financial gift once the next generation arrives - straight into mum’s #superannuation. The long-term benefits are enormous.

Superannuation can be unfair to women. The only way to fix this at the moment is to take personal control. Contribute early as much as you can before caring interrupts your contributions.

#Superannuation is useful for the country. It saves the federal budget billions, it gives the elderly dignity, it creates economic wellbeing - and it provides more health insurance customers. Don’t let anyone say it is not a good idea.

One of the empowering parts of females having #superannuation is it provides financial independence in #retirement - just one reason to find a balance.

According to the ABS 2015 figures, women will retire on approximately half the #superannuation of their male co-workers - $180,000 Vs $321,000. We need to fix this gap urgently.

Australia presently has approx. $2.7 billion in #superannuation savings. The impact on infrastructure and investment in the country is huge - and is getting better. The sooner we increase the Super Guarantee from 9.25% to 15% the better.

If something significant happens in your life, such as losing a partner, receiving an inheritance or changing your work circumstances, talk with your financial adviser and adjust your plans.