Five reasons your budget isn't working

Using a budget is a prerequisite for avoiding debt and living within your means. But have you tried making a budget and found that it doesn't work for you? Do you always manage to spend more than you budgeted for? Instead of giving up, consider five common reasons your budget isn't working.

Where are Australia's next property hot spots?

The tail end of 2013 was a lucrative time for property investors and home owners alike as property prices across Australia boomed thanks to improved confidence and low interest rates.

What do you know about your credit file?

Whether you are signing up for a mobile phone plan, a business loan or a mortgage, your approval can come down to one thing: your credit history. But most Australians have never checked their credit history, nor do they have a clue how to do so.

How to avoid financial disasters

From over-spending to racking up a massive debt or falling victim to a financial scam, financial disasters come in all sorts of guises and levels of crisis. Here are some valuable tips to help you avoid financial disasters of all kinds.

Superannuation versus paying off the mortgage

You’ve saved diligently all year, or perhaps you’ve received an unexpected windfall, bonus or inheritance. No matter how you’ve come across it, the question is likely to be about how to make the most of any spare cash – a common choice would be to inject it into your mortgage or add it to your superannuation fund.

Navigating the insurance minefield

From life insurance to trauma insurance, disability cover and income protection, the choice of insurance options can be mind-boggling. What is the difference between them and which do you need?

Mixed bag for Australia's building industry

Mining investment and strong population growth are driving the construction of new buildings in Western Australia, with the state boasting the strongest residential building industry in the country, according to a new report.

Property or shares: where should you invest?

When it comes to investing their hard-earned cash, Australians have always been partial to bricks and mortar and consistently rising property prices have guaranteed a solid investment return. As an alternative investment strategy, the Australian share market has also delivered results for investors, with shares reaching a five-year high last month.

Spring clean your finances

We are marching through Spring, speedily heading towards the most expensive part of the year: Christmas and the summer break. Before you get lost in the madness likely to ensue, now is the perfect time of year to sort out your finances and learn to manage your money better.

eftpos squares up to payWave threat with new contactless card

An eftpos contactless card is set to hit the market in the next twelve months and is currently undergoing internal trials with a number of banks.