Here are the main events of the next six months, the dates to watch, and everything love, luck and money in your star sign…

September 2: Pluto moves into Capricorn

This is the last chance to clear out work issues and to detox wherever possible.

September 18: Full Moon eclipse in Pisces

Time for some radical forgiveness – it will change your life! 

October 2: New Moon eclipse in Libra

A new start for lovers (and ex lovers) all over the world

November 2: Jupiter aligns with Chiron

Be one of those people who decides to heal an emotional upset

November 19: Pluto into Aquarius

A new cycle is starting for the world – expect tech breakthroughs and charitable change.

Mercury Retrograde – Think before you speak

Mercury is the planet which influences communication, so when it is in retrograde during the second half of the year, take care with the details of whatever you are focused on. Confusion can come up and misunderstandings, too.

It can all end up feeling rather stressful – life is wild enough without people taking things the wrong way, or feeling like you’re just being misinterpreted, agreed? However, there is a plus side to Mercury retrograde; see it as a chance for a ‘do over’ and you’ll get the best out of it. Think of it as a chance to rethink, revise, revisit, revamp and reconsider anything and everything – Mercury retrograde really does offer up second chances!

When is Mercury in retrograde July – December 2024?

Mercury retrograde begins in Virgo on August 5, 2024 and ends on August 29, 2024.

Mercury retrograde begins in Sagittarius on November 26, 2024 and ends on December 16, 2024.

Aries

March 21 – April 20

YOUR LOVE LIFE IS CHANGING (AGAIN!)

LOVE & FAMILY Expect big things in the coming six months – there’s a New Moon eclipse in your Love Zone on October 3 which can only mean one thing – expect the unexpected when it comes to love and romance between now and 2025!

WORK & MONEY You still have the planet for sudden surprises Uranus in your Money Zone so the truth is that there is still going to be a little chaos about anything to do with cash for you. Just set something aside for a rainy day and all should be okay.

LUCK You have a great blessing now – lucky and optimistic Jupiter in your Mind Zone. Look on the bright side and your life could start to fall into place!

Power dates

July 6 Channel your energy into ambitious projects.

July 16 Expect unexpected shifts or sudden opportunities, especially regarding finances.

October 4 You’re extra passionate and charming.

Taurus

April 21 – May 21

CAREFUL WITH CASH

LOVE & FAMILY If you’re in doubt about how loveable you are, use this six-month period to really big yourself up in terms of doing whatever it takes to bolster your self-esteem. The more you value yourself, the more others will value you too.

WORK & MONEY You have the power to really boost your bank account during this time. What you need to be careful of is expanding too fast or having too much blind faith in everything working out. Come with a plan!

YOUR LUCK On the one hand, you could be about to move into the most financially lucky time you’ve had for between six to 12 years. On the other, stay smart when it comes to cash. Financial lessons don’t need to be painful!

Power dates

July 15 Unexpected changes or revelations lead to personal breakthroughs

August 16 & 19 Challenges or obstacles may arise – be patient!

October 2 Focus on restarts in partnerships of all kinds

Gemini

May 22 – June 21

THIS COULD BE YOUR LUCKY SIX MONTHS

LOVE & FAMILY The end of the year sees the planet of communications, Mercury, making a visit to your Love Zone, so December and into the New Year is ideal for having whichever conversations you need to with the people who matter most.

WORK & MONEY Careful! With demanding  – and let’s be frank – sometimes downright depressing Saturn in your Career Zone right now, you could be so consumed with thoughts about how well you’re doing, or not doing professionally, that you’ve barely got time for what matters most – your personal life!

YOUR LUCK Since April, you’ve had the lucky planet Jupiter in your sign. Have you felt it at all? If not, then use this information now and decide that the Universe is henceforth on your side. What do you want to pull off with Lady Luck’s assistance?

Power dates

July 15 A day of insight and creative breakthroughs, ideal for unlocking hidden potential.

September 18 A critical moment for making significant decisions related to your career.

November 3 An opportune time for discussions leading to beneficial agreements, particularly around finances and shared commitments.

Cancer

June 22 – July 23

THE PRESSURE IS OFF

LOVE & FAMILY Right now you will experience more happiness and fulfilment if you find a good balance between your home life and your ambitions. You are normally family-focused but remember, worldly success can make you smile widely too.

WORK & MONEY You could feel as though the brakes are on financially around the end of the year when push-forward Mars does a reverse cycle in one of your Money Zones. Do chase up old unpaid debts. Don’t stall money-wise.

YOUR LUCK Your fortune is in your ability to go within at the moment. That might sound vague, but the truth is that the more you look at yourself, work through fears and connect with your Higher Self via meditation, the luckier you will feel. Give it a go.

Power dates

July 20 This day brings a focus on personal reinvention and the initiation of new personal projects or identity transformations, as significant energy highlights your first house of self.

September 18 Expect revelations or culminations in areas related to education, travel, or your beliefs

October 2 A pivotal time for partnerships for this horoscope, marking a new beginning or significant development in business or personal relationships, emphasising balance and harmony in connections.

Leo

July 24 – August 23

WISHES CAN COME TRUE NOW – SO MAKE THEM!

LOVE & FAMILY You’re on the cusp of possibly the most intense love cycle you’re ever going to experience this lifetime. You may have already had a taste of it. Make sure you are not being manipulative or involved with anyone trying to manipulate you!

WORK & MONEY Work might currently feel like an endless roller-coaster but money still needs to be earned, at least for most Leos out there. If that’s the case, put your head down and be as reliable as you can be.

YOUR LUCK You have the lucky planet Jupiter in your 11th house which is the part of your chart that sees dreams come true. It’s also your social circles. If you need help with anything now, start by asking your friends.

Power dates

July 22 Creative energies and personal expression are heightened, opportunity for showcasing your talents.

September 18 Focus on financial strategies or investments, and reassessment of resources, debts, or shared assets.

October 2 Focus on health and daily routines, implement positive lifestyle changes or new work habits.

Virgo

August 24 – September 23

THE LESSONS PEOPLE ARE TEACHING YOU …

LOVE & FAMILY With serious and sombre Saturn in your Love Zone and an eclipse there too, you’re going to be getting lots of lessons, welcome and otherwise, from the people in your life. Avoid shrugging them off. These are life lessons needed to learn to go to the next level!

WORK & MONEY You really do have amazing work stars at the moment, so try not to let the Saturn energies bombarding you get you down. Think big and aim high professionally, and you could reach some once-a-decade heady heights.

YOUR LUCK You’re particularly ‘in luck’ when it comes to your career and ambitions now. If you want to expand yourself professionally, you definitely have Lady Luck on your side, in the form of lucky Jupiter in your Career Zone.

Power dates

July 15 Healing is around private matters coming to light for resolution.

September 18 Endings could pave the way for beginnings in personal and professional partnerships.

October 2 Creativity, romance, and self-expression flourish.

Libra

September 24 – October 23

YOUR CHANCE TO BEGIN AGAIN

LOVE & FAMILY The second half of 2024 brings the last of the major disruptions in your home life – at least to the levels seen over the past few years. Don’t be tempted to go it alone now if someone is offering to stand by you.

WORK & MONEY The ups and downs continue thanks to the long-term presence of chaotic Uranus in your chart. Your best bet is to work for yourself – even an online side hustle would be perfect, so that you get the best of the energies. Explore your entrepreneurial side!

YOUR LUCK Luck will be on your side when you travel, especially long haul, or take a course of study. This is a time for you to widen your world view – doing so will help you to see how lucky you are and that will attract more good things to you!

Power dates

July 12 A vibrant period for self-expression and romance, encouraging Libra Rising to shine in love and creative endeavors.

August 5 A time for meticulous attention to relationships and projects, enhancing practical support and detailed expressions of affection.

October 8 Harmonious energies blend passion with action, ideal for pursuing desires in relationships, and artistic pursuits with balance and grace.

Scorpio

October 24 – November 22

AND BREATHE OUT…

LOVE & FAMILY Use the last six months of the year to clear out any negativity or toxicity in your family unit, including with your partner or ex. The more you do this now, the easier the next decade or two is going to be!

WORK & MONEY You have the planet of good luck and good times, Jupiter, in your Money Zone in the second half of this year. That sounds like a blessing, and it might be, but also remember that Jupiter often spends like there is no tomorrow – and there will be a tomorrow!

YOUR LUCK You really do have financial luck on your side during this six-month period. In particular, any joint ventures you enter into are blessed by the Goddess Fortuna. That doesn’t mean you don’t need to do your due diligence. Far from it. But the financial stars are on your side.

Power dates

July 6 Energies align for a productive push toward long-term ambitions, making it a great day for focused progress on challenging projects.

July 16 A day and overall period marked by unexpected developments, offering the chance for quick, decisive action that could lead to innovative breakthroughs.

October 4 A harmonious time for strengthening connections and pursuing passions with both intensity and balance, ideal for deepening relationships or artistic expression.

Sagittarius

November 23 – December 22

WISHES CAN COME TRUE

LOVE & FAMILY Even though you’re in an overall quite lucky cycle, you do have some pretty tough home and family stars to deal with. Your personal life has lots of lessons to teach you, but you also have happy Jupiter giving your love life a big boost!

WORK & MONEY You’re emerging from one of the most intense financial astrology cycles possible. It’s been going for around 15 years but it’s ending now. September and October are good for forging ahead with whatever your financial goals are.

YOUR LUCK Your horoscope really has two sides to it. The lucky side is all your most important one to one relationships, including personal and professional. Now is the time to focus on the people who make you happy and the people that you make smile.

Power dates

August 15 A time ripe for expanding knowledge and exploring new horizons, encouraging broad thinking and optimism.

October 12 An excellent day for connecting with others, where shared visions and collaborative efforts can lead to meaningful progress.

December 20 A period that highlights personal growth and understanding, perfect for reflecting on your journey and planning future adventures.

Capricorn

December 23 – January 20

YOU WON’T RECOGNISE YOURSELF SOON

LOVE & FAMILY If you make healing your aim now, at home and in your personal life, you will be taking best advantage of the current energies. Home is definitely where your heart is right now, so don’t avoid it because you’re so tied up with achieving! Family first, even if you have to kiss and make up first.

WORK & MONEY The karmic lunar nodes are offering you a choice – are you going to take the easy way out of life and just do what’s easy and familiar, or are you going to take life and run with it? While staying stuck feels easier, ultimately, it’s not. Choose your hand.

YOUR LUCK Your challenge now is to believe in your own good luck – if you can get your head around doing that, you can actually have a good six months! Try to find at least one thing a day to be grateful for and see how that transforms things.

Power dates

July 6 A great day for making significant headway on projects, where hard work and careful planning pay off.

August 20 A pivotal time for reflection and strategic adjustments, turning challenges into stepping stones for future success.

September 30 An optimal period for focused efforts and achieving goals, thanks to a strong drive and disciplined approach.

Aquarius

January 21 – February 19

LOVE & FAMILY With the planet of chaos and madness in your Home Zone for another year, it’s either going to be chaotic at home, or you wish it was! Now is the right time to do things differently when it comes to love and family. Dare to think outside the proverbial!

WORK & MONEY September looks good for you work-wise and when it comes to cash. There’s a Full Moon in Money Box suggesting you have taken Saturn’s medicine and learned your lessons of the past and are ready to turn things around.

YOUR LUCK You have a big blessing in your chart this year; the lucky planet Jupiter in your Fifth House. This is great because it means that no matter what else is going on, you could be able to find a way to have some fun in your personal life, either to do with kids (your own or someone else’s), a pregnancy, a romance or a creative project.

Power dates

July 16 Expect a surge of creativity and a push towards independence, making it a prime time for breakthroughs in personal projects.

July 19 A day that brings unexpected opportunities for growth, urging you to step out of your comfort zone and explore new possibilities.

October 8 Harmonious energies encourage you to balance your individuality with connections to others, fostering both personal and collective progress.

Pisces

February 20 – March 20

LOVE & FAMILY You have the lucky planet Jupiter in your Home and Family Zone so hopefully this will be a super happy time for you with anything and everything to do with your home and family. Regarding romance, Saturn is driving you so hard – you need to find the time for it!

WORK & MONEY Saturn back in Pisces for the first time in around 30 years really is dictating a lot of the energy in your chart at the moment. Work with Saturn by being a grown up, knowing your limits, working hard and being as real as you can be!

YOUR LUCK If you’re thinking about taking a little bit of a risk in your home or personal life, assess the risks very carefully. If you really think it’s worth a shot, know that you’re extra lucky for the rest of the year when it comes to home and family. 

Power dates

July 12 A period of heightened intuition and creativity, encouraging deep emotional connections and artistic expression.

September 18 A significant day for spiritual growth and understanding, offering clarity on personal beliefs and inspiring compassion in relationships.

November 19 An excellent time for reflection and inner growth, where dreams feel closer to reality, and personal boundaries expand to embrace new possibilities.

Our astrologer Yasmin Boland says, “Remember to read your Rising Sign, if you know it, for a more accurate prediction.”

If you don’t know it, find it out for free at moonmessages.com/freechart

The post Your Mid-Year Horoscopes July – December 2024 appeared first on Now To Love.

This positive initiative is dedicated to supporting our incredible carers by campaigning for superannuation payments for carers.

Every week in Australia, 2.65 million people dedicate an average of 36 hours – and sometimes up to 104 hours – caring for a friend, relative or neighbour in need. Seven out of 10 unpaid carers are women*, who make significant emotional, career and financial sacrifices to care for their loved ones.

Keep reading for why the ‘Cost of Caring’ campaign matters and how you can get involved.

What is the ‘Cost of Caring’ about?

It’s time to shine a light on the heroes who often go unnoticed – our unpaid family carers. These are the amazing individuals who support the most vulnerable among us, from the elderly and disabled to those facing mental health challenges. They step in and provide essential care and support that many in our communities rely on.

But here’s the kicker: while they’re busy taking care of everyone else, these carers often face significant challenges themselves, as they sacrifice their income, future income potential and superannuation to look after someone they love.

The ‘Cost of Caring’ campaign is about addressing this issue and with your support we will be asking the Government to pay superannuation to all recognised unpaid carers** in Australia.

Annabel Reid, Carers Australia CEO, says that a campaign of this size and magnitude will be a huge boost to the long-standing call for superannuation to be paid on the Carers Payment.

“If these changes were implemented by the current Government, we would begin to see real-life benefits for a community in Australia providing at least $80 billion of care services for free to those who need it most,” Annabel says.

“Economically, people who provide unpaid care are likely to earn less than those who do not. It is time we did more for the cohort of carers who have had to give up employment opportunities to provide care and reduce their superannuation deficit.

“The critical and significant work that unpaid carers provide across the country is vital to supporting Australia’s strained health system, aged care system, disability support and mental health support and is often undertaken at great cost to a carer’s own general and financial wellbeing,” she adds.

Why should the ‘Cost of Caring’ matter to you?

Carers offer compassion and assistance, and their work is vital to the wellbeing of our communities. However, despite their crucial role, many carers struggle financially.

When a carer is looking after someone they love, their financial vulnerability increases as they sacrifice their own income, future income potential and superannuation.

As Jane Huxley, CEO of Are Media, beautifully puts it: “Our carers are the backbone of our community, offering unconditional support and love. It’s time we returned the favour and ensured they have the support they need to continue their incredible work.”

How you can help

One of the most impactful ways you can help right now is by signing the petition to guarantee superannuation for carers.

Your signature can help bring about the changes needed and together we can make a real difference in the lives of those who give so much to our communities.

*Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2018

**The definition for carer (under the Australian Government Carer Recognition Act 2010) is someone who gives care and support to a relative or friend who: has a disability; has a medical condition (terminal or chronic illness); has a mental illness; or is frail because they are old (known as ‘frail and aged’)

The post Join the Cost of Caring campaign – support our unpaid carers appeared first on Now To Love.

As a quick refresher, the End of Financial Year (EOFY) is June 30, 2024. This is the same every year, no matter what day the date falls on.

What we’d buy from the End of Financial Year sale (and why)

• who is elijah, Ocean Eyes perfume, $125.30 (was $179) – this fragrance is your answer to the winter blues, transporting you right back to summer with its citrusy and fresh scent.
• Coffee Oodie, $79 (was $109) – speaking of winter, bundle up during those chilly days with this coffee-inspired Oodie.
• Bistro XL Airfryer, $159.20 (was $199) – we’ve all heard how good air fryers are, so why not either upgrade your current model or jump on the bandwagon with this versatile choice from Greenpan.
• Emma Comfort Adapt Mattress, from $527.45 (was $959) – get your best sleep yet with this best-selling mattress that is soft, supportive and so good.
• Birds Boots, $202.97 (was $289.95) – upgrade your shoe rotation with these chic boots that come in either black or caramel to style as you please.

Full list of deals in the End of Financial Year sale

The best EOFY beauty deals

• Mermade Hair: Up to 60 per cent off
• iHerb: 20 per cent off orders over $100
• Bescher: 20 per cent off
• Adore Beauty: 20 per cent off
• Priceline: Save 40 per cent on select brands
• BodyBlendz: 25 per cent off
• Shaver Shop: Up to 70 per cent off selected products
• Paula’s Choice: 29 per cent off select favourites during 29th Anniversary Sale
• Shark Australia: Up to 56 per cent off

The best EOFY fashion deals

• Rolla’s Jeans: 30 per cent off selected styles
• Neuw Denim: 40-60 per cent off
• Sportscraft: 30 per cent off sale styles
• JAG: Extra 20 per cent off sale
• Avenue the Label: Up to 70 per cent off
• Saba: Up to 70 per cent off
• Paire: Up to 40 per cent off
• Myer: Up to 50 per cent off
• The Iconic: Up to 60 per cent off
• David Jones: Up to 50 per cent off
• Reebok: Up to 50 per cent off
• The Oodie: Up to $50 off
• Nine West: 30 per cent off, and an extra 50 per cent off sale items
• Taking Shape: 40 per cent off
• Seed Heritage: Up to 50 per cent off all sale styles

The best EOFY home deals

• Bed Bath N’ Table: Up to 60 per cent off
• RJ Living: 20-40 per cent off
• Sienna Living: Up to 30 per cent off
• Hommey: Up to 40 per cent off
• Dyson: Save up to $500 on selected technology
• Kogan: Up to 60 per cent off
• Greenpan: Up to 50 per cent off
• Adairs: Up to 40 per cent off
• Emma Sleep: Up to 55 per cent off
• Castlery: Up to $600 off sitewide
• Freedom: 20-60 per cent off all furniture, and up to 50 per cent off all homewares

The best EOFY travel deals

• Antler: Up to 50 per cent off select styles
• TUMI: Up to 50 per cent off in their Private Member Sale
• Virgin Australia: Up to 30 per cent off select flights to Uluru
• Amazon: Save on luggage during the Mid-Year sale
• American Tourister: 40 per cent off
• STRAND: Up to 50 per cent off

When does the End of Financial Year sale start and end?

The sales typically begin at the start of June, or even the end of May. They run until the end of the financial year (June 30), or sometimes depending on the business will include the weekend following June 30.

In other words, hurry because you only have mere days to get yourself a bargain!

Related links

• Get ready to save big because Amazon’s Mid-Year Sale event is almost here
• Where to score Dyson’s cult Airwrap hair tool for a fraction of the price
• Here’s where to save over $100 on these cult Apple AirPods right now

The post The very best End of Financial Year bargains to look out for in 2024 appeared first on Now To Love.

To help in any way we can, Woman’s Day has rounded up our top tips to save you money in simple ways.

KNOW WHAT YOU OWE

A recent study by finder.com.au found that the average Australian has $20,238 in personal debt (not including mortgages).

A lot of us are in the same boat. It’s important to sit down and make a list to get a clear picture. Government website moneysmart.com.au recommends writing down how much each debt is, minimum monthly repayments (if any) and when the payment is due. Then add up all your debts to see how much you owe in total.

MAKE A PLAN

Now it’s time to crunch the numbers. Look at your list and make a priority of what you need to pay off first. Aim for the debt that has the highest interest attached to it, then work out how much you can afford to pay. Even an extra $30 on top of the minimum monthly repayments will make an impact you’ll notice in the long run.

SET UP AUTOMATIC PAYMENTS

You’ve made the commitment by writing it all down, but sometimes those good intentions don’t last. One way to stay on track is to set up regular automatic payments to coincide with your
payday. Also consider that some banks and financial institutions offer debt consolidation, that is, bundling your debts together so you just need to pay off the one debt with one interest rate.

DON’T YIELD TO TEMPTATION

It’s hard not to be tempted by “buy now, pay later” deals for shiny big-ticket items, but now is not the time to commit. These services are often advertised as “interest free” or “0% interest” but they may charge late fees and account-keeping fees.

The same goes for new credit cards offering attractive extras such as frequent flyer points. You can overcommit to spending what you can’t afford. Both will just add to the pile of debt.

ASK FOR HELP

To get free and confidential help, call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. The helpline is open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm.

You can also call Way Forward on 1300 045 502 from Monday to Friday, 9am to 7pm. They can send you a free info pack on managing debt, and can also arrange a debt repayment plan on your behalf for free.

The post These simple measures will help consolidate your money matters appeared first on Now To Love.

Enter SpinTel, one of Australia’s leading telecommunication providers. You might not have heard of them, but their customers are singing their praises and they’re raking in the awards for service, value and delivery. You might think if you’ve dealt with one telco, you’ve dealt with them all, right? Wrong. What sets SpinTel apart is that they deliver on their promise to ensure a seamless experience that ensures you’re always online and effortlessly plugged into the digital world.

Elevating your experience

Choosing an ISP isn’t just about the speed of your connection; it should also be about the quality of service and support you receive. If you’ve ever spent time on hold waiting (and waiting, and waiting) for support, you’ll know how frustrating that can be. With SpinTel, exceptional customer service is at the forefront of everything they do.

In addition to great chat support, SpinTel’s friendly experts are just a phone call away, ready to address your queries and help within minutes. Whether you’re a tech-savvy enthusiast or a casual user, SpinTel’s dedicated support team ensures that your connection remains seamless and hassle-free.

Unbeatable value on NBN plans

At a time when every dollar counts, SpinTel understands the importance of offering value packed NBN plans without compromising on quality. With nationwide coverage and a wide range of plans tailored to suit every household’s needs, SpinTel ensures that you get the best value for your buck.

If you have kids or teenagers at home, you’re going to need data and a lot of it. SpinTel’s home NBN plans include unlimited data, so they’ve got you covered from just $49 a month. Plus, their transparent pricing ensures no bill shock surprises, so you can rest easy knowing exactly what you’re paying for each month.

Award-winning SIM only mobile plans

SpinTel shows excellence beyond broadband, clinching the title for Best SIM Only Mobile Provider – Value, at the Finder 2024 Mobile Awards, rising above 26 competitors.

A SIM-only mobile plan presents an exceptional deal for families, particularly those looking to equip their kids or teens with a device. By passing down an older phone, parents can pair it with SpinTel’s incredibly affordable SIM-only plans. Prices start from only $14 per month for the initial six months, offering a generous 25GB of data.

Experience the SpinTel difference

With a glowing rating of 4.4 on ProductReview.com.au and accolades from industry-leading publications such as Finder, WhistleOut, Canstar Blue, and Money magazine, SpinTel consistently get top marks for transparency, value for money and exceptional customer service.

To find out more, hop onto the SpinTel website for the full rundown on pricing, plans and hardware or call 13 22 10 to speak to their friendly customer service team.

The post The award-winning internet and mobile company you’ve never heard of until now… appeared first on Now To Love.

Is your super consolidated?

It’s possible there might be thousands of dollars just sitting there owed to you. If you’ve changed your name, job or address and forgotten to tell your super fund, you could have lost or unclaimed super.

However, it’s surprisingly easy to find your lost payments. Just log into your MyGov account and make sure it’s linked to the Australian Tax Office (ATO). You can then do a super health check, which includes step-by-step instructions on looking for lost super, consolidating and preventing it in the future.

Do you need to make or amend your will?

No matter your age, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead. It’s important to have an up-to-date will. If you die without one, the law decides who will get your assets – and this may not align with your wishes.

Maybe you already have a will but your situation has changed? According to licensed Australian financial adviser Helen Baker, it’s important to update your will to reflect your new situation as well as the beneficiaries in your superannuation, which is treated separately from your will. “The same goes for any trusts, companies or similar structures you have,” Helen adds. Visit onyourowntwofeet.com.au for more info on wills.

Perform a mortgage check-up

For those of us who are lucky enough to own a home, it’s likely that mortgage repayments are your biggest annual expense, so it really does pay to give that a regular check-up.

Are you getting the best interest rate available? An interest rate even 0.5 per cent lower could save you thousands of dollars over time. Are you getting ripped off in annual fees? Remember that home loans with more features such as offset redraw can come at a higher cost. Compare the market and then contact your financial institution to see if they can give you a better deal. If not, consider switching.

Compare your energy use

We’ve all noticed it, those gas and electricity bills seem to be creeping up in price. Now is the right time to consider a power switch. Check your current utility plans against others on the market and then find out if you can make the switch (there are different rules across the states). If you do change, look for a plan with a flexible contract that doesn’t penalise you for making changes to your account. Use the government’s Energy Made Easy website (energymadeeasy.gov.au) or if you’re in Victoria, Victorian Energy Compare (compare.energy.vic.gov.au).

Look into your insurance

Another big expense is insurance, whether that be a policy for your car, health, travel, life or home.

Whenever it’s time to renew, it pays to spend some time comparing premiums with other providers. Be sure to ask for a discount when you bundle polices (for example car and home insurance) and see if your insurer will match a quote from another provider.

Retirement planning

According to government website Moneysmart the amount of super you’ll need when you retire depends on your big costs in retirement, and the lifestyle you want. With most people expecting now to live well into their eighties, if you stop working at 66, you’ll need retirement income for 20 years or more.

Moneysmart has a handy retirement planner where you can calculate what income you’re likely to get from super and the age pension when you retire. Visit moneysmart.gov.au to learn more.

TELCO CONFIDENCE

One thing you don’t want to worry about is the cost of your internet or phone – so it pays to do your homework. Aussie telco SpinTel is known for great prices, speed, reliability, and customer service. It had double wins in Finder’s 2024 Mobile and NBN Awards, taking out the award for Best NBN Provider for Fast Speeds and Best SIM Only Mobile Provider for Value. Not bad at all!

The post Money Matters: How fit are your family finances? appeared first on Now To Love.

“Financial empowerment is more than just gaining the knowledge, skills and confidence to manage finances effectively – it’s about making informed financial decisions, breaking barriers, setting new standards and paving the way for independence and security,” says Patricia Garcia from Your Vision Financial Solutions (yourvisionfinancial.com.au), a specialist who has these tips to empower women to secure their financial futures. 

8 Financial Empowerment Tips for Women 

1. Embrace digital cash flow tools

Gone are the days of manual budget tracking. By using cash flow apps you can easily track your income and expenses and identify where to cut back and save. How can you make informed decisions if you don’t know what you earn and what you spend in detail?

2. Build an emergency fund 

Unexpected events don’t have to derail your financial stability. Building an emergency fund covering three to six months of living expenses will act as your financial safety net, ensuring you’re prepared for anything, from job loss to unforeseen bills and time off work due to sickness or injury.  

3. Set financial goals

Dream big and set goals. Whether it’s a much-needed holiday, a new home or a secure retirement, start by breaking down your financial dreams into achievable milestones (short-term, medium-term and long-term financial goals) so you can stay motivated and focused on your financial journey.  

4. Take out personal insurance 

To protect yourself and your loved ones from unforeseen financial burdens, ensure you have adequate insurance coverage, including life, total and permanent disability, income protection and trauma.  

5. Diversify investments and invest for the future 

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to investing. Educate yourself on investment options suitable for your risk tolerance and financial goals. If possible, consult with a financial adviser to assess your attitude towards risk, your need to take risk and your capacity to take risk. It is important to create an investment strategy that doesn’t put all your eggs in one basket. 

6. Stay informed about tax changes 

Tax regulations are constantly evolving. Staying informed about these changes can help you optimise your financial position. From maximising deductions to ensuring you’re compliant, being proactive about tax planning is very important to ensure you are taking advantage of all the strategies that can benefit you and are aligned with your goals. 

7. Prioritise retirement planning 

It’s never too early or too late to plan for retirement. Take an interest in your superannuation fund and get advice as to whether regular contributions are right for you. This allows you to leverage the power of compound interest and take advantage of a tax-effective structure, which can help ensure you are on track for a comfortable retirement. 

8. Seek professional advice 

When it comes to financial empowerment, you don’t have to face the journey alone. A financial adviser can offer insights and recommendations based on your unique financial situation, ensuring your strategies align with your personal and business goals. Ongoing advice is paramount, so make sure you find an adviser that is right for you and makes you feel comfortable. 

For more from our financial freedom issue, pick up a copy of Woman’s Day – on sale now.

Your Vision Financial Solutions Pty Ltd ABN 64 650 296 478 and its Advisers are Authorised Representatives of Fortnum Private Wealth Ltd ABN 54 139 889 535 AFSL 357306. The blog has been prepared without taking into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information on this article/blog you should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs

The post 8 Financial Empowerment Tips For Women  appeared first on Now To Love.

So, Woman’s Day has created a cheat sheet guide on how you can save on your grocery bill!

Save before you buy

Never be tempted by impulse buys again when you make an e-list. Apps such as WiseList take advantage of other features including nutritional information.

You can even load your recipes on there, search for other recipes and add those ingredients to the shopping list. It also has the ability to store and keep track of upcoming bills.

Embrace technology

Get money back by using apps such as Cashrewards. Each time you make a purchase with supermarket retailers linked to the site, the platform receives a commission and then part of this commission is given back to you as a cashback payment.

Money will be returned via PayPal or a bank account – it’s a way to save without even having to think about it! Download supermarket rewards points apps as well and take advantage of discounts and offers.

Diversify your shop

According to Finder research, one in three Aussies do not shop at the big two supermarkets. Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder says that diversifying your shop is the best way to get the most bang for your buck. For example, Finder research found that Aldi can often be cheaper on some staples.

“Shopping around widely will help you identify where you can get the most value for your money,” says Graham. “Especially in this climate, awareness can go a long way.”

Buy in bulk

When you see a staple that is on special, buy it in bulk. Think non-perishables such as detergent, toilet paper, dishwasher tablets and kitty litter. It can mean big savings in the long run.

Buying in bulk also means you won’t need to make multiple trips to the shops to top up, which means a saving in petrol and time. Consider looking into the prices at wholesale warehouse club Costco as well, if there is one nearby.

Shop from the pantry

Think the cupboard is bare? Take another look. Before you order takeaway or head to the supermarket, consider getting a little creative.

There is a plethora of ideas on what to make with limited ingredients in Woman’s Day’s food pages and also on YouTube. It’s amazing what you can whip up with whatever is left in the pantry or fridge and a little bit of ingenuity.

The post Change your grocery spending habits and your purse will reap the rewards appeared first on Now To Love.

A budget lets you find ways to spend less and save more to achieve those money goals. Here’s how to start.

1. Set it up

Not sure where to record your income and expenses?

Government website Money Smart has a handy budget template so you can work out where your money is going, create custom items and, if needed, even change the currency.

Simply visit the website and type in ‘budgeting’ and you can download the Excel spreadsheet.

2. Record your income

Begin by taking stock of your income.

List all the money you bring in from your wage or salary, any side gigs you may have, as well as any investment returns.

Once you have a good idea of how much you are bringing in per week or month, it will be easier to get a read of how much you can spend.

3. What is your spending plan?

According to licensed Australian financial adviser Helen Baker, planning helps you identify possibilities, but action is what pockets those savings.

Helen advises exploring three different spending plans: “living my best life”, “a nice life” and the “absolute minimum”.

“Have a plan for if you lose your job and put that money away. If the worst doesn’t happen, you will have saved more to invest,” says Helen.

“Redefine your goals as your circumstances change.” Head to Helen’s website for more information.

4. Consider the 50/30/20 method

Here’s a budgeting style that is popular due to its simplicity and flexibility.

With this method, 50 per cent of your after-tax pay goes towards the essential costs of living, 30 per cent goes towards wants and 20 per cent goes towards savings and debt payments.

It’s a good way to keep track, and if you overspend in one category – say buying takeaway (a want) – you know to cut back on other wants such as spending on clothes or beauty products.

5. Set some goals

Set yourself some short-term and long-term financial goals, write them down and keep them in mind.

Let’s say you are saving for a home deposit that you don’t want to touch for a while.

You can funnel the money you save into a high-interest savings account.

Make sure you add in some fun goals – a weekend away is something tangible in the short-term to work towards.

The post Counter Intelligence: Budget Busters appeared first on Now To Love.

To help you out, Woman’s Day has created a cheat sheet guide on how you can save on essentials.

Bread

We all want bakery items to be as fresh as possible, but “best before” dates can be overly cautious.

If you don’t mind serving the bread or pastry that night or freezing it, then head to the supermarket before closing time.

There’s a good chance you can get markdowns for a “quick sale” of perishable delights, especially when there’s a bakery on-site.

This also goes for other perishable food such as roast chickens and meat.

Petrol

Want to know when to fill up? Head to the ACCC petrol price cycle page (accc.gov.au/consumers/petrol-and-fuel), which details when prices are lower in big cities.

For example, based on the ACCC historical pricing data, cheaper petrol can be had in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide on Wednesday.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to download a fuel check app or website and compare prices.

A finder.com.au analysis found that prices can vary by as much as 15 per cent between stations in adjacent postcodes.

Takeaway food

In no mood to cook? Swing by your local shopping centre’s food hall on the way home from work.

Businesses will often try to clear their food by closing time, which can mean big savings.

Prefer to order from home? Go as local as possible and choose pickup instead of delivery.

Plus, if you deal with the restaurant directly they may have specials on. If you prefer apps like Menulog and Ubereats, look for promotions.

Fruit & veggies

While the price difference can sometimes be small, consider doing your shop on weekends directly from farmers’ markets.

Cutting out the middle man can not only mean extra freshness but some savings, too.

Bigger markets such as Sydney Produce Markets in Flemington caters primarily to buyers from supermarkets, restaurants and greengrocers but are also open to the public.

Whitegoods & electronics

If you have a brand that you love, keep track of when a new model is released.

When that happens, retailers reduce prices on older models to clear stock.

You could bag a new fridge, washing machine or computer for a bargain.

The post Best time to buy: How you can save on essentials appeared first on Now To Love.

With a bit of creativity and ingenuity, there’s still time to make this the best Yuletide season yet, with no need to spend the big bucks.

Bring nature in

Forget expensive centrepieces for the Christmas table or mantelpiece. Grab a vase and go out into your garden and pick some leafy natives. They’ll also bring a fresh aroma to the home.

The optimal choice is Christmas bush, but eucalypts work just as well. Can’t find a vase? Lay them directly on the table – banksias work particularly well for this.

Head to the markets

Want a unique gift that won’t cost the earth? You can often find plants, flowers, jewellery and candles for a fraction of the price at local markets.

Keep an eye out for up-and-coming fashion designers, who often have market stalls as it’s cheaper than having a bricks and mortar store. The bonus is the gift will be unique, and you are helping to support a local businessperson.

Use debit over credit

Don’t be tempted to pull out the plastic and go on a gift-buying spree. Think about the consequences come January

when that credit card bill arrives and you’re paying extra interest on it.

Spend only what you have available, and if necessary, lower your budget. Remember, now more than ever, it’s the thought that counts.

Take a staycation

Left the holiday planning till too late? Or maybe this year the budget can’t stretch to a week-long beach holiday. Here’s a fun idea – feel like a tourist in your own town or city by going on a new adventure or trying a fun activity.

Look up free activities where you live and write up a two-day itinerary for the family, just as a travel agent might. One day could be a picnic at the closest National Park and another could be taking a free walking tour.

Make a list, and check it twice

There’s one guarantee if you’re hosting Christmas this year, there is going to be leftovers. Make a detailed meal planner for the week after Christmas.

Make note of what’s been sitting in the pantry and freezer for months and add that to the meal plan – that’s another budget meal or two sorted.

The post Last-minute Christmas savings appeared first on Now To Love.

As well as looking for the cheapest petrol station, there are lots of other ways you can lower your fuel expenditure. We asked driver trainer Chris L’Ecluse, solutions specialist at Teletrac Navman, for his tips.

1. Think ahead

It sounds obvious, but one of the best things you can do is reduce unnecessary car trips. Chris says we’re very used to jumping in the car and going wherever we want, whenever we want, so try only using your car when you really need to – eg walking to the shops instead of driving. It’s also a good idea to consolidate all your errands into one journey.

Where possible, avoid driving during peak hours of commuting and school runs, which are usually between 7 and 9.30am then 2 to 6pm, he adds.

“If we can coordinate our trips to occur outside of those times, then that reduces the incidence of stopping and starting, therefore, that has very real impact on fuel economy,” he adds.

2. Reduce weight

When was the last time you had a good look in your boot?

“If you’re lugging around bikes, sports gear or bags of clothes to donate, for example, that extra weight will mean extra fuel. Removing excess baggage keeps your car running more efficiently”, Chris says.

3. Lower drag

If you’re driving at high speed – say, on the freeway – and need to cool down, flick on the aircon instead of winding down the windows.

“When you wind the windows down it creates more drag, which is the force against the vehicle when you’re driving. And therefore a vehicle requires more power and more energy to propel itself through the air,” he explains.

“Removing roof racks – unless you use them regularly – is another good idea”, he adds.

4. Go gently

Do you wait until the last possible second to brake? Or speed to get ahead of other cars when you get a green light? You might want to rethink those habits.

“The greatest amount of fuel used is propelling the vehicle from a stop, or from low speed, and getting it up to speed. Keeping a vehicle at speed is far easier than getting a vehicle up to speed,” Chris says.

When you need to slow for a stop sign, red light or stopped traffic, brake gently and gradually. And accelerate gently when it’s time to go again – being ‘heavy footed’ will use a lot more fuel.

5. Inflate tyres

Next time you’re at the servo, take a minute to check your tyre pressure. If one or more of your tyres is below the recommended level for your car (check your vehicle’s manual or sticker on the car door’s edge), top them up to reduce fuel consumption.

“Underinflated tyres require more energy from the engine to push the vehicle along,” Chris says.

“Think about a wheelbarrow: if your tyre is a bit flat, and you’re trying to push a wheelbarrow full of sand, it’s much harder than when the tyre is inflated correctly.”

6. Get it serviced

Your car uses fuel most efficiently when it’s well maintained, so make sure you don’t get behind in its regular service schedule.

Things like dirty spark plugs, clogged filters or misaligned wheels can make a difference to fuel efficiency.

The post 6 easy ways to preserve your petrol appeared first on Now To Love.

Save hundreds of dollars by following these tips.

Use discount codes

Online purchase promotions or discount codes are there to be used, so be savvy and see what’s out there before you buy. Simply download an extension app such as Honey (joinhoney.com) which does the searching for you or Google current promo codes for the retailer.

You can save around 10 per cent when you find a code, sometimes more.

Use up your giftcards

Website finder.com.au has found that around a third of people have bought a gift card and haven’t put it to use. Now is the time to check your purse or wallet – if there’s one still in there, use it to buy gifts.

It’s a win-win situation, knowing you have saved money and made good use of an asset that was waiting to be used.

Get cashback

Those little rewards can add up. Grab your phone right now and download apps such as Shopback (shopback.com.au) and Cashrewards (cashrewards.com.au). They can allow you to earn up to 30 per cent cash rewards on purchases.

These apps operate like an upfront discount in reverse. They especially work well for big-ticket items such as laptops and ebikes.

Buy vintage

Research from Bunnings has revealed that almost 20 per cent more Aussies are now turning to upcycling compared to this time last year in an effort to make their dollar stretch further. Join them and consider vintage or upcycled pressies by visiting op shops and checking online at Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace.

Whether it’s an artwork, vase or piece of jewellery, sometimes all it takes is a little varnish or some sugar soap.

The post Harness these shopping hacks to ensure a fabulous festive season for all appeared first on Now To Love.

1. Upcycle wrappers

If your toilet paper comes in paper wrapping, why not try repurposing it as liners for your compost bucket? This simple step not only ensures easy and mess-free disposal but also contributes to reducing waste.

2. Gift outside the box

Wrap up memories, not things! Share the joy of experiences and consumables instead of random clutter. It’s a gifting revolution that keeps on giving.

3. Give your leftover wine a second life

Repurpose wine into vinegar. Simply pour the remaining wine into a glass jar, cover it with cheesecloth secured by a rubber band and let it sit in a warm place for two weeks. Once transformed, store the vinegar in a sealed bottle for your culinary endeavours.

4. Chill scraps

To minimise odours and prevent fruit flies, consider storing your compost scraps in the freezer. This smart approach not only keeps your kitchen more pleasant but also ensures that your composting efforts remain efficient.

5. Don’t toss stale bread

Give it a new life by making French toast, turning it into breadcrumbs using a food processor or adopting the latest trend by dampening it with water and popping in the oven.

6. Be water-wise

Save water by using a bucket to wash fruits and vegies, which you can then re-use for plant watering. Additionally, place a bucket in your shower to catch cold water as it warms up – perfect for plant care and cleaning.

7. Bring out the piggy bank

An oldie but a goodie – why not start a coin jar in your household for any cash you find lying around? Every couple of months, count how much money you’ve made and put this towards groceries or anything else you fancy.

For more helpful info and advice on how to reduce waste in your home head to zerowastevictoria.org.au.

The post How to make eco-friendly choices – all while cutting costs appeared first on Now To Love.

Australian frugality blogger Melissa Goodwin is a former accountant turned thriftiness expert.

The mum-of-two made the switch to follow a more economical lifestyle 10 years ago, and she hasn’t looked back since.

Melissa’s approach is less about penny-pinching and more about embracing creative challenges.

To help ease the pressure on your purse, here are her best tips for keeping the pantry stocked and saving money on your weekly shop:

Bread and cereals

To make savings on bread, Melissa says to shop later in the day or at closing time to pick up markdowns that can be frozen when you get home.

And she advises using your trusty air-fryer to refresh day-old rolls with a sprinkling of water. To revive stale bread using an oven, dampen it first and then reheat it gently at a low temperature, like 150C, for five to 10 minutes.

Melissa also suggests ditching pricey breakfast cereals and instead using oatmeal. “Make it hot the traditional way or turn it into overnight oats, Bircher muesli, or toasted muesli, she says.”

Meat and Seafood

Melissa advises stretching the budget by buying quantity – such as a whole chicken or shoulder of pork – over pre-packaged cuts.

“Cook the roast, shred the meat, and use small amounts for various meals during the week,” she says. “Turn the remaining bones into a tasty stock to provide the basis for a great meal.”

Save on seafood by using tinned and frozen fish. Supermarkets have cheaper, own-brand offerings of tuna, salmon and sardines.

Dollar-savvy: Dairy

Savvy shoppers wanting to nab a deal on milk should buy any markdowns they see and pop these in the freezer.

When defrosting, do so in the fridge to avoid spoiling. Supermarkets periodically discount the price of powdered or UHT milk. Both are ideal for use as substitutes in recipes calling for dairy.

When buying yoghurt, use the unit price to compare value. For example, a two-litre tub of Greek-style yoghurt costs 65 cents per 100 grams versus the same product packaged as a four-pack at 94 cents per 100 grams.

Avoid purchasing pre-sliced cheese; if you have a larger whole block, grate and freeze meal-ready portions.

Melissa trims her dairy budget by doing away with butter on sandwiches and wraps and replacing it with mayonnaise.

Fresh food bargains: Fruit and veggies

While common sense dictates shopping for produce out of season means higher prices, shopping in season will ensure savings. You can check what is in season for different times of the year on the Seasonal Food Guide for Australia.

Melissa says other savings strategies include opting for frozen over fresh or shopping at the supermarket or farmers’ market near closing.

And remember, check prices at your local greengrocer. Smaller outlets can have better produce and, at times, be more affordable.

Coffee and tea

Save on these items by comparing prices on websites, apps, or social media, and recommends looking beyond the usual outlets for potential bargains.

For instance, buy coffee and tea at reduced prices in department stores, discount stores, office supplies stores, delis, or coffee shops.

“Frugality won’t solve the many problems brought about by the financial crisis,” Melissa offers wisely. “But it can help stretch the budget just that little further in the short term.”

The post Here’s how you can save money on household basics appeared first on Now To Love.

Financing your own money is always a struggle and taxes do not make it any easier.

The last chance to lodge your tax return on time is the 31st of October, any time afterwards is considered late lodging.

With the tax deadline approaching quickly it’s shocking that 47% of self-employed people are still yet to file their own tax return.

1.5 million Australians are self-employed, this can be beauticians, therapists, contractors, hairdressers and more.

They are having to spend on average $1000 in preparation for their tax return but 50% of those people who have received their assessment have reported a lower rebate compared to previous years.

According to the latest Hnry Sole Trader Pulse, 17% of self-employed people admit that they haven’t even started preparation for the tax return that is due in just a few days.

Karan Anand, Managing Director of Hnry Australia, explained, “By their very nature, Australia’s 1.5 million sole traders are self-reliant go-getters – contributing to a thriving sector that grows by 50,000 annually.”

“However, tax season can be a confusing and stressful period for many independent earners who have to spend even more time and money on their financial affairs to meet their tax obligations.”

If you don’t file your tax return on time, the ATO can apply a number of sanctions and penalties to make you lodge or penalise you for lodging late.

There are many alternative options for payment if you can’t pay the amount on time. A late payment is better than lodging too late.

So what can you do?

Hnry is the world’s first digital accountant and tax automation service for sole traders.

It’s an ‘all-in-one’ accounting service and they’re on a mission to make self-employment simple, affordable and accessible for all.

Hnry exists to support sole traders and get their affairs in order with peace of mind, so they can focus on the more enjoyable parts of being their own boss.

The post Here’s what you can do to get your tax return lodged on time appeared first on Now To Love.

There are some conflicting reports, but we have collected all the details about how much these stars are paid.

Seven Network’s Sunrise has been a staple of Australian morning television for over 20 years, and the show’s beloved hosts are reportedly being well compensated for their early morning starts.

A senior TV executive at the network told Daily Mail Australia that former host David ‘Kochie’ Koch had been receiving a salary over $1.5 million prior to his departure from the show in June 2023.

Kochie’s replacement, former Olympian Matt Shirvington, is reported to be receiving a starting salary of $400,000, with a source telling Daily Mail Australia that his salary is expected to jump to over $750,000 pending favourable ratings.

The Australian has claimed a massive $700,000 pay gap between the two Today show hosts, Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo.

Karl – who has featured on the breakfast program since 2005 – has an annual salary of $1.5 million, meanwhile Sarah who only begun hosting in 2023 gets paid $800,000.

Today fans will remember the previous pay gap scandal on Today involving Karl and Lisa Wilkinson. The journalist claimed in her autobiography, It Wasn’t Meant To Be Like This, was axed from the program after demanding a salary boost.

Former Nine CEO Hugh Marks told The Daily Telegraph that Lisa was offered $1.8 million but declined after wanting $2.3 million – surpassing Karl’s $2 million. However, Lisa denied these claims while on ABC’s Radio National.

Allison Langdon’s former gig on Today allegedly had a salary package of $1 million and was on the program for three years.

Upon accepting her new position on A Current Affair, sources told New Idea her salary decreased to $250,000, but she was also working very different hours.

The Australian now reports she is making around $1.5 million on ACA. The salary increase could be a result of the mass success Ally has brought to the program.

The Daily Telegraph reported the previous ACA host, Tracy Grimshaw was taking home $750,000 per year.

The Block’s Scotty Cam has hosted since 2010 and makes a whopping $1.5 million annually. Given the renovation series is a huge ratings success for Nine, there is no doubt the network is ensuring their legacy host sticks around.

Kyle Sandilands also has an eye-watering salary for his judging position on Australia Idol, accidentally admitting his pay cheque while speaking on his radio program.

“Listen, it’s clearly over a million dollars for three months work, you’d be a fool not to do it,” Kyle said. “I don’t know how much they’re paying the other [judges] so maybe I shouldn’t have said it.”

In addition, Kyle and Jackie O’s annual salary from their radio program has increased from $5 million to $10 million until 2034.

But the highest paid on-air presenter surprisingly isn’t Karl Stefanovic but rather LEGO Masters host Hamish Blake! The Australian reported he makes $2 million per year. Meanwhile, his former radio co-star Andy Lee makes $1 million.

Woman’s Day has reported Love Island Australia host Sophie Monk takes home $800,000 and former The Project presenter Peter Overton makes $900,000.

The post Surprisingly Karl Stefanovic isn’t the highest paid television presenter appeared first on Now To Love.

Get a password manager

Don’t make it easy for scammers to guess. Did you know one of the most common passwords is the word ‘password’? Another common one? 123456. Granted, they are easy to remember and none us can expect to recall all our passwords. Luckily, there are some great password manager solutions on the market. Finder.com.au compared a number on the market and found LastPass to be an excellent and affordable cloud-based password manager, and 1Password was singled out for being a flexible password manager that’s especially good for iPhone or Mac users. Both can generate passwords, as well as monitor accounts for security breaches. They also suggest changing weak passwords, and syncing your passwords between your computer and phone. They may seem difficult to set up, but once installed, it’s a breeze.

Always choose multi-factor authentication

According to the Cyber Security Stakeholder Group (CSSG), a group comprising of the ATO, tax practitioner industry groups, government agencies and industry partners, we should all be using multi-factor authentication where possible. Multi-factor authentication requires users to provide multiple pieces of information to authenticate themselves – for example, a text message sent to your phone when logging in to a website. This additional layer of security on your accounts can make it harder for anyone else to access your account.

Consider a credit ban

Think your identity has been stolen? You can stop scammers taking out loans in your name by getting a credit ban. It’s a free service. Independent organisation that provides free support to individuals impacted by scams or fraud, IDCare.org advises that you can apply to Credit Reporting Agencies for a credit ban to stop people getting credit or loans in your name. The ban lasts 21 days and can be renewed. When a bank or credit provider is checking your suitability for credit, they will check with Credit Reporting Agencies and if someone tries to take out a loan in your name, the check will fail if you have put a ban on your credit report.

Keep your software up to date

According to the Australian Tax Office, instances of malicious software (malware) are increasing. It can be easy to accidently click on an email or website link which can infect your computer.

“In some instances, your device may be impacted by ransomware. Ransomware can lock your computer until you pay a fee to criminals install software which provides access to your bank accounts, allowing criminals to steal your money,” the ATO warns.

The answer? Protect yourself by installing the latest security updates, running regular anti-virus scans and using a spam filter on your email accounts. Run weekly anti-virus and malware scans and have up-to-date security software.

Talk to your bank

After the latest data breaches you may have noticed correspondence from your bank about increasing security. Westpac, for example, is asking for forms of ID to be presented. Ask your financial institution to add more checks so no one can pretend to be you. The Commonwealth Bank is recommending customers activate location-based security, set notification preferences and review registered devices – alerting you to any irregular activity on your accounts. Another good idea? Consider reducing your daily withdrawal limits if you’re concerned about your accounts at this time.

The post How to keep your data safe in the age of privacy breaches appeared first on Now To Love.

If you’re anything like us and you spend most of your time in front of a laptop, then now is the best opportunity to upgrade your tech and score yourself a new one.

Although the cyber weekend sales are yet to start, some sites are beginning to roll out their discounts, and we have been keeping an eagle-eye out to score the best deals possible.

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite deals below for your perusal, and keep an eye out because we will keep this updated as the sales come rolling in.

Apple

$252 off 2020 MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip (gold)

$192 off 2022 MacBook Air 13.6-inch with M2 chip

Lenovo

$400 off ThinkBook 14-inch Gen 2

$350 off IdeaPad Slim 3 17-inch Gen 7

$250 off IdeaPad L3i 15-inch Gen 6

Microsoft

Up to $219.95 off Surface Pro 8 including free keyboard

Up to $292.99 off Surface Pro 9 Essentials Bundle

Up to $528.01 off Surface Pro 8 for Business

Up to $85.99 off Surface Pro 8 Essentials Bundle

HP

$330 off Envy Laptop 16-inch

$320 off Pavilion Laptop 15.6-inch

$340 off Pavilion x360 2-in-1 Laptop 14-inch

$440 off ENVY Laptop 16-inch

Keep an eye out for further updates over cyber weekend…

The post The best laptop deals to score this cyber weekend appeared first on Now To Love.

A celebrity couple can go from loved-up to broken up, a TV show can go from a must-watch to an absolute flop, or we could just find our world entirely turned upside down by a global pandemic.

Chances are, whether you’re a famous face or just a regular Aussie, in the past two years, some big things have happened.

Just ask car insurance brand, Stella. During the rollercoaster that’s been the start of the 2020s, the business has made some big moves.

The business has disrupted the car insurance industry by putting women first when it comes to designing products and experiences with women at the centre of everything — all while making a positive difference in the lives of women across the country beyond insurance.

Stella Insurance: Made for women, by women

As an insurance brand made for women, Stella has one core mission: to change the game for women.

The business works in collaboration with their customers, listening to what they want from their insurance, and delivering a more intuitive and rewarding experience. Their products are specifically designed with women in mind (who are, statistically, safer drivers), putting them back in the driver’s seat when it comes to making financial decisions.

Their seamless tech and experiences allow women to get insured in just four minutes (so they can get back to their busy lives), all without the need to pick up the phone or provide unnecessary details. Plus, their premium benefits, optional extras and rewards are all targeted towards women and their needs.

For example, Stella’s policies offer up to $2000 for certain baby gear stolen from your car or damaged in an incident. They also offer domestic cover, which means no excess will be applied to a claim for reported damage to your car that arises from a deliberate act by a current, or former, spouse or partner^.

“It’s been wonderful to see thousands of happy customers make the switch to Stella and provide so much positive feedback about their experience,” says the company’s CEO and Founder, Sam White.

However, the road to success over the past two years hasn’t always been as smooth.

“Launching in the pandemic meant that the available market was much smaller than we had counted on, so we had to pivot and adapt to make sure we would still achieve our goals,” says White.

“I’ve learned how much a small, determined group of women can do, and how important truly honest and vulnerable conversation is in a team to create trust and intimacy in challenging circumstances.

“They say it takes a village to raise a child, and I would say the same is true of a business. As a founder or CEO, you are often the person that people see or praise when things go well (the opposite is also true, of course). But for me it really is about the team.

“I’m blessed to have a team who have taken my vision and brought it to life, truth be told far better than I could have ever dreamed. When I say this is just as much their business as mine, possibly even more so, I mean it. They have invested their blood, sweat and tears to get us where we are today.”

Her advice for others wanting to design disruptive products and brands?

“Act like no one is watching,” she says.

“By that I mean, follow your gut and make sure you don’t let the setbacks drag you under.”

Driving positive change

Stella Insurance‘s purpose has never just been about changing the insurance game. They also want to change the game for women, full stop, in all parts of life.

A core part of the company’s business is their hands-on partnership with Women’s and Girl’s Emergency Centre (WAGEC). With 1 in 4 women experiencing some form of violence from an intimate partner, WAGEC offers housing and support for those in crisis, helping to create safer futures for women and their families.

In the last year alone, WAGEC has supported over 1200 women and children in crisis, and provided over $400,000 in material donations, including food and household items, technology, transport and grocery vouchers and other essential items.

Stella and WAGEC have a shared vision to help end gender-based violence in a generation. Stella commit $5 from every new car insurance policy to WAGEC’s Donations Program, raising over $35,000 this year alone.

“Support from Stella Insurance is helping…provide essential material items to women and children who have experienced homelessness, domestic violence and social disadvantage,” says the WAGEC team.

“Ongoing partnerships are important because they help to ensure the sustainability of programs and resourcing that is critical to giving women and children what they need now and into the future so that they can thrive.”

With such incredible achievements under their belt in just two years, we can’t wait to see what Stella can do in the years to come.

Brought to you by Stella Insurance.

^ Normal underwriting terms and conditions, limits and exclusions apply. Any advice provided is general only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs and may not be right for you. To decide if this product is right for you, please read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and the Target Market Determination (TMD) available at stellainsurance.com.au. Stella Underwriting Pty Ltd (ABN 72 633 811 319) is an Authorised Representative (AR 001282046) of Allstate Insurance Pty Ltd (ABN 82 073 267 053, AFSL 239010) which is acting (under its own AFSL) on behalf of the product issuer, QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited (ABN 78 003 191 035, AFSL 239545).

The post This is why we switched car insurance appeared first on Now To Love.

Finances are certainly crucial – ensuring you have enough funds to live to the standard you’re accustomed to, but there’s also downsizing to consider. Whether your main objective is to reduce home maintenance, be closer to services and transport, or use the additional funds to bolster your retirement nest egg, the benefits of reducing your property footprint are many.

Downsizing 101

Some people confuse retirement villages with aged care homes, but they’re quite the opposite. Most retirement villages are designed with a quality of life in mind featuring amenities such as a pool, clubhouse, gym, tennis courts, some even have a restaurant or cinema. Retirement village life is all about reducing maintenance and upsizing convenience. However, it’s not always easy to know where to start when it comes to choosing the right retirement village for you.

Choosing Right

With around 2,500 retirement villages across Australia, it pays to know what to look for above and beyond what meets your lifestyle needs. This is where the Retirement Living Code of Conduct can help – it’s a voluntary commitment retirement villages make to providing a high standard of management, operation and complaint resolution to ensure residents enjoy a safe and secure lifestyle.

Signing up to the Code of Conduct is a commitment to high standards, with the goal of making every resident’s experience a good one.

When you’re looking for a village you can really trust, just ask “Are you a Code village?”, or keep an eye out for the official Code Seal. You can also search A Wise Move for every village in Australia that has committed to the Code of Conduct.

If a village you’re interested in isn’t signed up to the Code, speak with the village manager or sales representative about whether they plan to join in the future. A commitment to the Code of Conduct offers peace of mind that you’re moving to a reputable village that has the interests of residents at the forefront.

Deep Dive

Explore the opportunities in retirement village life by downloading a free copy of The Book of Wise Moves, compiled by Retirement Living Council. This comprehensive, transparent guide covers everything you need to know; from what is a retirement village or manufactured home estate; to questions you should ask and advice you should seek before making the move.

To find out more and be on the path to enjoying village life, visit A Wise Move and download your free ebook here.

Brought to you by the Retirement Living Code of Conduct.

The post Wise (and helpful) tips for the best retirement living appeared first on Now To Love.

But trust us, retirement brings endless opportunities and incredible freedom of choice. Your time is your own and your biggest dilemma will be deciding what to do first. Here’s just some of what you can look forward to in the years ahead.

1. Seeing the world

One of the biggest perks of retirement is finally having the time to travel at your own pace. With no work waiting for you on your return, you can go as far as you like, for as long as you like.

Take your time travelling around Australia in a motor home, give cruising a go, fly to Europe and spend a week in every town. You could even give yourself a challenge of playing every golf course or stopping at every winery cellar door within a defined area.

Unlocking cash: Need to unlock some home equity to live your wildest travel dreams? Boomer Home Loans is reinventing the finance rules as the first specialised lender for Australians aged 55+.

Offering a range of different home loan types including principal and interest, hybrid loans and reverse mortgages, Boomer Home Loans provides bespoke new credit products and options tailored to the individual circumstances of its retired and soon-to-be retired customers”.

2. Prioritising your health

Time constraints, stressful jobs and multiple demands may have seen your health take a dive, so now’s the time to set things right.

Retirement gives you the flexibility to see your GP for check-ups, find a form of exercise that you enjoy and prepare nutritious meals rather than resorting to takeaway every night. You’ll gain strength and stamina to enjoy everything that retirement has to offer.

3. Reviving your relationship

Having spent a large chunk of your time and energy raising children and fulfilling work responsibilities, your relationship with your partner may have fallen by the wayside.

Now’s the time to reconnect and rediscover all the things you love about each other. Start small by going for walks, cooking together or enjoying uninterrupted conversation.

Plan date nights and romantic getaways and show affection and appreciation as you enter this new life chapter together.

4. Relishing family time

There may have been occasions when work demands saw you miss out on family events and milestones, but now you can make up for lost time.

Arrange one-on-one catch-ups with your adult children or enjoy your new role as a grandparent by minding the grandkids and cheering them on at sport games or dance performances.

5. Nurturing your creative side

You’re never too old to learn something new. Whether you enjoy music, photography, gardening or sport, you finally have the chance to start a new hobby or pick up an old one.

And it has brain health benefits, too. According to Queensland Health, doing regular mental challenges trains these mental pathways, improving their effectiveness and refreshing old or unhelpful thought patterns.

Perhaps you’d like to learn a language, improve your computer skills or join a book club. Local community groups and colleges have a plethora of classes and courses to explore, and you can sign up individually or with your partner or a friend. It’s a win-win for social connection and brain health.

6. Giving back

If you’ve always wanted to be more hands-on in your community, retirement provides you the opportunity to do so.

As well as the self-satisfaction that ‘giving back’ gives, volunteering helps you develop stronger social networks and friendships, according to Head to Health, a Department of Health initiative.

“It can help you become more active, mentally and physically. It can even contribute to getting better sleep. Some people find that volunteering helps them experience less stress and anxiety.”

The options for volunteering are endless: sports clubs, community gardens, libraries, animal shelters, hospitals, homeless services and more. You may also like to mentor a young professional in your previous field. Sign up now!

Brought to you by Boomer Home Loans

Boomer Home Loans offers a range of specialist home loan products for over 55s, helping you to live the life you deserve by unlocking the potential in your hard-earned wealth. Get in touch to learn about the full range of products on offer and their terms and conditions. Boomer Home Loans Pty Ltd Australian Credit Licence Number 532798

The post Your golden age: What to look forward to in your 60s, 70s and beyond appeared first on Now To Love.

When it comes to the dark cloud of debt, it can be hard to muster to motivation to do anything about it.

If it’s a big debt cloud, it can feel insurmountable. A small debt cloud? You may be tempted to continue making the minimum repayments until it has shrunk to nothing. But maintaining debt can cost you big in ongoing interest.

Michael Watson from La Trobe Financial says getting debt under control can be easier than you think, and he has some expert tips to help you pay off your debt faster and take control of your financial future.

Assess the damage

Many of us have at least some debt – a a mortgage, a car loan, credit card debt. Michael says if you’ve made the decision to tackle your debt monster the first thing you should is assess your financial position.

“Take a look at all of your outgoings over a few months – it can be surprising to see where the money goes! Look for savings wherever you can and understand how much income you can put towards debt reduction,” he says.

Once you have a little pot of savings that you can put towards your debt, assess where it can be used most effectively.

Plan for success

A general rule of thumb is to pay out the shorter term, expensive debts first.

“Store credit and credit cards, personal loans and car loans are all generally at higher rates and can make up a large portion of your take-home income. Each one you pay off frees up disposable income to put towards paying out the next one,” Michael says.

Going in with a plan can save time and money in the long run.

“Too often debt reduction is done without a plan, and that means it’s done without focus. If you know how much you can put towards each, and then pay them out strategically or one at a time, you’re giving yourself the best chance of success.”

Consolidate smart

Consolidating your debt can be smart, but, Michael warns, you have to stay focused on paying it off.

“If you consolidate your debts, say into your home loan which might have a much lower interest rate, you may be better off provided you maintain your repayments at the higher level.”

But, once you’ve rolled your debts into one, ensure you maintain your focus on keeping your budget under control. “Otherwise, you might start racking up debt on your freshly-repaid credit cards again,” he warns.

Get debt help

Banking, telco, energy and water industries have their own Ombudsman for dispute resolution.

The national Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) has information on how to negotiate payment terms.

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) provides free, independent dispute resolution. If you’re considering a financial services firm that isn’t a member, don’t deal with them.

The answers given to the questions noted above are our personal views and do constitute financial advice and should not be relied on in lieu of professional advice. We have not considered your personal financial circumstances. We recommend you seek the assistance of an accredited financial planner or advisor.

Hosted by The Australian Women’s Weekly and Better Homes and Gardens in partnership with La Trobe Financial, come and join us to learn how to build your wealth after 50!

The post Get debt smart: How to pay off your debt faster and take control of your financial future appeared first on Now To Love.

Right now, though, house prices are above trend so it’s logical to look outside the housing market. Having money in the bank is also not an option with interest rates so low. So where can you look for returns when we have so much market uncertainty and a regional war in eastern Europe?

Justin Grossbard, co-owner of Compare Forex Brokers, provides four areas to consider investing or trading within.

1. The stock market

Everyone knows about shares but finding the right company to invest in can be daunting. Large Australian companies like BHP, Qantas or ANZ are popular choices on the ASX, but there are hundreds of stocks to choose from and the stocks you pick will have a large outcome on the final returns.

Justin recommends that instead of shares, an EFT from a company like Vanguard can often be more practical. This is when the company combines listed shares into a fund which you can invest in. While they are fees for purchasing through EFTs or index funds, they are lower than most other managed financial sites.

If you’re looking to invest in shares yourself, the key is to minimise your fees using an online broker such as CMC Markets. Just remember, choosing shares does require knowledge and you may want to invest in a range of shares to reduce your exposure to just one or two company performances.

2. Trading currency

Unlike shares where you invest, you can trade currency through a forex broker. Most people don’t realise that the foreign exchange market is the largest in the world, turning over a whopping $6.6 trillion a day.

Foreign exchange trading (or forex for short) involves the exchange of one currency for another at an agreed-upon price. Sometimes this is done for practical purposes – for example, when travelling overseas – but the large majority of these transactions are done to make a profit. Essentially, forex traders try to predict the movements of certain currencies and buy and sell them to turn a profit.

It’s important to remember that this isn’t investing but trading, and your capital is at risk. It’s recommended to always try a demo account first before actually trading on the market.

3. Trading cryptocurrency

Everyone has heard of crypto, with 28.8 per cent of Australians owning cryptocurrencies last year. Cryptocurrencies do come with high uncertainty and volatility. Individuals that buy and hold crypto are purchasing digital currencies such as Bitcoin, Ripple and Litecoin from a crypto exchange like Capital.com on the expectation they will increase in value.

Cryptocurrencies are popular because, by their nature, they’re highly volatile and speculative, however the future of cryptos is largely unknown, making them very risky.

Justin’s personal rule of thumb is to only trade an amount in cryptocurrency you’re willing to lose. As crypto has no underlying value, there is no floor to the currency (or ceiling).

4) The derivatives market

Derivative instruments derive their value from an underlying financial asset. Examples of derivative options include options, futures and contracts for difference (CFDs). CFDs in particular are becoming extremely popular – this instrument allows you to speculate on how prices will move in the market in pursuit of profits without owning the actual instrument.

CFD assets you can trade include forex, cryptos, shares, bonds, hard and soft commodities (i.e. gold, silver, coffee) and indices. Trading with CFDs might be the easiest of all options to get started for trading, and since CFD involve leverage, you need very little capital. While leverage can lead to high profits, they are especially risky. For this reason CFD trading is best left to experienced traders who are willing to take on risk.

The underlying rule of investing and trading

One of the main factors that will determine returns are the fees charged during the process. The fees between the big four banks and specialised stockbrokers can be five times higher. The same is true in foreign exchange, with some Australian low spread forex brokers charging three times less fees than some larger overseas brokers.

Always take time to compare the brokers, from cryptocurrency to shares, and minimise your fees. Also make sure the broker is reputable, has an easy to use interface and strong customer support.

What are the risks?

All investment comes with some form of risk. Financial trading to some extent is about trying to profit off the volatile nature of the market. So it follows, you should only risk what you can afford to lose.

When choosing a broker, it’s well advised to choose one regulated by the Australian Investment and Securites Commission (ASIC). This provides you with an element of protection as it means the broker can legally operate in Australia and is not some kind of scam broker.

Brought to you by Compare Forex Brokers. Compare Forex Brokers can simplify the process of finding the best broker for your needs. Highly experienced in the finance industry, they provide clear comparison tables of different brokers to present all the facts and details you need in a concise way. There’s no technical jargon and no time wasted poring over pages of superfluous information.

The post Invest for success: Tips for money-savvy women appeared first on Now To Love.

With a reduced income, Jayne needed some advice on how to boost her financial fitness to support her two school-aged children.

Enter Saver Plus – a free financial education program designed to help families and adult students develop long-term savings habits. Across 10 months and five online workshops, Jayne learnt the steps to money success.

Here are the five lessons that put her on the path to financial wellbeing, and how they can help you too.

1. Setting financial goals

Setting goals for your savings instantly puts you in the right mindset. To start, it’s important to understand your own attitudes to money and build a picture of your current financial situation, outlining future goals.

Jayne says it was helpful to set these goals within a supportive group.

“It was beautiful to witness the openness that the others had around money. It was very refreshing that we were all talking about money, and it wasn’t taboo.”

TIP: Try the ‘set a savings goal‘ feature on the ANZ app to create a budget, boost your savings and track your progress.

2. Everyday banking

Where and how you choose to stash your cash can have a huge impact on your finances – from the type of accounts you use to your bank’s interest rate. Through the Saver Plus program, Jayne learnt how to find the best banking option for her situation, and how to use bank accounts to manage her cash flow.

TIP: Avoid the ‘set and forget’ approach to banking. It’s worth taking the time to compare different providers and accounts to find the best one for you. You might be able to save on fees, and help your money grow with higher interest rates.

3. Saving and spending skills

Saving your income isn’t an Olympic sport, and neither is cutting your expenses. In the Saver Plus workshops, learn tips and tricks to shopping around for the best deals, and how to find rebates, grants, and financial support services.

“The workshops connected me with different Government grants and programs. By the end, I must have saved $1,000 thanks to these things I was eligible to join,” Jayne says.

TIP: Check out these money savings tips for great ideas on banking, groceries, retail shopping and more.

4. All about credit and debt

Entering the world of ‘credit and debt’ can sometimes feel like talking in a foreign language. There’s a lot to learn, from the differences in secured and unsecured debt to the relationship between risk and return. And don’t even get us started on credit scores!

Through the workshops, Jayne was armed with the financial literacy to deal with and stay on top of debt.

TIP: Not all credit is the same, and not all debt is the same. Learn about the different types of debt and tactics you can use to get on top of them.

5. Planning for the future

By the end of the Saver Plus program, Jayne felt in control of her money and was ready to plan for her financial future, including tackling her superannuation.

“I’ve been able to keep saving since the program and now that I’m working, I feel more confident in my ability to save,” Jayne says. “I was going through a pretty tough moment and joining Saver Plus helped me financially at the right time!”

TIP: If you have more than one superannuation account, consider consolidating them to save on management costs.

Brought to you by Saver Plus. Saver Plus was established by The Brotherhood of St Laurence and ANZ and is delivered in partnership with Berry Street, The Smith Family and other local community agencies. The program is funded by ANZ and the Australian Government Department of Social Services, with ANZ providing matched savings for participants.

The post Five financial tips that helped this single parent start saving appeared first on Now To Love.

Stella Insurance was created by women, for women, so it makes sense that the company is now also supporting women in crisis. They’ve just announced an ongoing partnership with the Women’s and Girls Emergency Centre (WAGEC), with $5 from every new car insurance policy going toward WAGEC’s Donations Program.

Based in Sydney, NSW, WAGEC exists to help women and families escaping domestic violence, homelessness and systemic disadvantage. They provide everything from material aid through to case management, and also work with the broader community and private and public entities to address the underlying causes of gender inequality so that together, we can put an end to gender-based violence.

“Supporting women and families means we work alongside our clients to help them find longer term housing, rebuild confidence and well-being, recover from trauma and access work and study opportunities through case management, mentoring, targeted programs for children and young people and in-house psychological support,” WAGEC CEO Helen Waters Silvia told Now To Love.

“Support looks different for every woman and family, and WAGEC works from a strengths-based, trauma informed and holistic lens to create safe futures free of violence.”

WAGEC’s work is crucial for so many women. The Australian Bureau of Statistics have said that their 2016 Personal Safety Survey estimates 2.2 million adults have been victims of physical and/or sexual violence from a partner since the age of 15. These numbers also skew heavily towards women and children, and have likely increased. During the COVID-19 pandemic, domestic and family violence spiked again so there has never been a better time to support organisations doing the hard work in this space.

When WAGEC client Amar* sought shelter at the WAGEC, all she had was a small bag and a suitcase. “As soon as I walked in, a worker asked me if I would like something to eat and if I needed any toiletries or clothes,” she said.

“I had expected to walk in and begin filling out paperwork but when she asked about these smaller things it just made me slow down and realise that someone cared about my needs as a person not just as a box to tick. It was the woman at the Redfern office that made me feel less scared about what I needed to do next.”

“The essential items that our community provides through our donations program are a small but meaningful way to support women and families with material aid. Items given through WAGEC’s donations program can help to restore dignity and choice during challenging times,” added Waters Silvia.

The move to support WAGEC is very much in line with Stella Insurance’s vision and mission as a business – the company is passionately pro-women, and aims to empower and support female drivers (we make up 52 per cent of road users, did you know?) within an industry that traditionally has been very masculine.

“As a conscious business, Stella has a vision to change the game for women by striving for equality and empowering women,” Stella’s General Manager, Renee Cosgrave, told NTL. “We felt that the only way we can help drive change beyond insurance was to use our profits for good to be able to help change the lives of other women.”

To learn more about WAGEC, find some more info here, and if you’re interested in picking up some car insurance at Stella, head to their site here.

*name has been changed for privacy.

Brought to you by Stella Insurance.**

**Normal underwriting terms and conditions apply. Any advice provided is general only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs and may not be right for you. To decide if this product is right for you, please read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and the Target Market Determination (TMD) available at stellainsurance.com.au. Stella Underwriting Pty Ltd (ABN 72 633 811 319) is an Authorised Representative (AR 001282046) of Allstate Insurance Pty Ltd (ABN 82 073 267 053, AFSL 239010) which is acting (under its own AFSL) on behalf of the product issuer, QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited (ABN 78 003 191 035, AFSL 239545).

The post The female-led business helping drive positive social change appeared first on Now To Love.

They don’t have an emergency fund

“An emergency fund or ‘run fund’ as some of my friends call it, is a fund that allows you to handle the unexpected when the time comes. It also makes it easier to deal with stressful financial situations in your life because you know you’re covered. Many women find themselves in a situation where they need to ask their partners for permission to spend, and this is a way to ensure some independence as well.”

They let their partner handle the finances completely

“It’s so common for women to outsource the finances to their partners. It often happens around the time they have small children, and then doesn’t shift back. In some ways it can even feel like a fair division of labor if she is handling many other aspects of domestic life. And while you don’t need to take over the finances, you do need to understand your financial position. So start asking questions and get a clear picture of your assets – this is your bank balance, super, investments and shares, and then your debts, which includes your home loan, any investment loans and credit card debt.”

They feel like they can’t move the goal posts in their relationship

“Oftentimes, at the beginning of a relationship, we don’t talk about money. Even when we start a family, we don’t always talk about money. But there comes a time in your life where you decide you want more information, and when that happens, you are entitled to make changes. Just because you might not have been across the details before, does not mean you cannot start now.”

They don’t ask enough questions

“Financial talk can be wrapped up in numbers and terms that aren’t always easy to understand. And women are often shy of asking for explanations – but there are no silly questions. The numbers can be confusing but will become much easier to understand once explained. Many women haven’t grown up with their parents discussing financial matters with them, so oftentimes it comes down as much to social conditioning as anything else.”

They don’t ever consider their spending habits

“Something we all need to do is consider how we spend money. It often has a lot to do with how you were raised among other things, but if you are spending more than you make on a regular basis, you just will not accumulate wealth. One thing that can really motivate positive change in spending behaviors is starting to consider what you want in 5, 10, 15 years. Then work back, and figure out what is worth sacrificing now to get what you want down the track.”

They don’t factor plan for their long-term future

“Women are excellent at holding space for the goals of everyone else in their life, but often won’t be thinking about their own long-term future. There are important questions worth asking: Where do you want to be when you’re 60? How do you envision your life in your 70s? This is especially important when it comes to super. For women who left the workforce and have not been contributing to their super fund, it’s important to consider your plans. It’s not too late to start making voluntary contributions.”

They think they have to “know everything” to invest

“Women tend to lack confidence when it comes to investing, but the fundamentals are simple: don’t spend everything you earn. Instead, save some and invest it for future you. And since your money doesn’t do anything in a bank account, putting it into a super fund or investing it in shares means you’ll have passive income in retirement. For some women, the struggle is getting comfortable with that feeling of taking risk. But in many ways that makes women more savvy investors, because they ask great questions and look for long-term solutions.”

They don’t ask for help

“If you’re at a loss of what to do about your financial future, a financial planner can help. The industry has really been cleaned up and this is not just for wealthy people. A financial planner can help anyone who wants to look ahead and put some structure around their plans. And these conversations can help work through your goals and unpack issues you might have around investing or spending.”

Brought To You By La Trobe Financial.

The post The heartbreaking mistakes women make with their finances appeared first on Now To Love.

In 2017, while raising her 4 kids as a single parent, George McEncroe thought driving rideshare was a great option to make some cash and still giving her enough time to line up with her kids’ busy schedules. Twice she registered to drive for Uber but something made her feel very anxious about the prospect of driving men who’d had too much to drink, alone in her car, at night in parts of the city she barely knew.

It occurred to George that if she felt like that, it was unsurprising that she’d never had a woman driving her in a cab or an Uber. But with so many women seeking out flexible work, was fear the only reason women like her were staying away from transport? After testing the idea with a GoFundMe campaign George found her hypothesis had merit. Women had a strong desire to drive other women and be driven by other women. And that’s where Shebah was born.

Since then, Shebah has taken over 150,000 female customers and their families safely home. It is the only rideshare service that provides baby seats and transports unaccompanied minors while offering the economic freedom so many women are desperately seeking in Australia.

George knew that pointing out the faults in a male-dominated industry like transport would get backlash from men, which only further motivated her to make Shebah a true disruptor in the transport industry. She is unapologetic in her mission for change for women, and that makes her pretty Stella to us! Here, she chats to us about motherhood, money, and creating safe spaces for women.

Now to Love: Transport is a very male-dominated industry, what sort of feedback did you receive when you launched Shebah?

George McEncroe: “There will always be naysayers. For every abusive message or person in the comment section screaming ‘reverse sexism,’ we receive hundreds of messages of gratitude from women who can finally work in rideshare and feel safe, get home without worrying, or transport their daughters without threat.”

NTL: What should schools be teaching the next generation?

GM: “The definition of madness is trying the same thing again and again and expecting a different result. We’ve tried for generations to teach women how not to get attacked. We need to teach our sons to be allies, to create space for women to succeed, to call out bad behaviour and to never create it themselves. We need to look at how to design for all people and remove barriers to entry. We need to be teaching the difference between equity and equality.”

NTL: What’s the best advice you can give to women who are managing a career and motherhood?

GM: “Women should have the choice to do anything but that doesn’t mean they should have the responsibility to do everything. Abandon perfectionism. Get off Instagram and be kind. Draw up tasks that belong to the house/family and not to the woman. Ideally keep working for money when you have kids because it keeps you sane, feeling powerful, independent and happier.”

NTL: Why do you think businesses such as Stella and Shebah are so important for women?

GM: “Businesses such as Stella and Shebah approach problems from a woman’s perspective. Our value propositions are based on real challenges. Importantly, we are making space for women in industries dominated by men, which can often be intimidating and exclusive. In my experience, women who feel unsafe cannot feel happy. The two are mutually exclusive. Very often men disregard, trivialise or cannot grasp the things that make women feel unsafe. Women being heard, believed, understood and validated generates safety, that creates a sense of trust and a solid relationship that lasts a lifetime. Women want to be seen and heard and have products designed specifically for them.”

Brought to you by Stella Insurance.

Read our other Stella Women interviews with Liz Dawes, founder of the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation, motoring journalist Elise Elliott, and the founders of finance platform, Ladies Talk Money now.

The post Stella Women: George McEncroe On Revolutionising Rideshare For Women appeared first on Now To Love.

Whether you’re a new mum, a mum-to-be, a grandmother, or if you’ve lost your mum, the day marks a special opportunity to be truly thankful for everything a mother represents.

Falling on May 9 this year, many people might still be spending the day away from loved ones, especially if they’re overseas as they COVID-19 pandemic leaves borders closed.

For others, a quiet gathering might be had wherever you happen to be. But whatever you’re doing for the day, showing love is the most important thing – and a beautiful gesture from near or far can be the perfect way to do that.

READ NEXT: Gorgeous Mother’s Day gift ideas under $100 so you can spoil mum without breaking the bank

Enter small businesses, many of whom continue to struggle in the wake of the pandemic after being forced to close bricks and mortar stores and rely solely on online sales.

With this in mind, why not choose a gift or gesture offered by one of these unique companies when it comes to picking out something for mum?

To make things easier, we’ve found a selection of some of the best gifts to choose from ahead of the big day – happy scrolling!

WATCH: Ashton Kutcher’s sweet mother’s day gift will melt your heart. Gallery begins below…

Meeraboo

Family-owned Aussie brand Meeraboo specialises in homemade soy candles that look gorgeous, and smell even better. With scents including salted caramel or strawberry and champagne, there’s a candle here for every mum. Shop them online here.

Treasure Chest Co.

Treasure Chest Co. is a rural Australian brand specialising in leather adorned jewellery. This beautiful multi-pearl wrap bracelet is the perfect gift for mums who love a little accessory or two. $18, buy it online here.

Junee Liquorice and Chocolate

They do say flowers mean “I’m Sorry” and chocolates mean “I Love You”, or at least that’s what we’ll go with if this is the kind of chocolate on offer. Junee’s Licorice & Chocolate is a friendly small town chocolate churner with a whole lotta loving to give you, and your mum’s tummies. Shop their delicious range online here.

The Poet

Jewellery is always a wonderful gift to receive, and picking it out is the best part. That’s why Forbes-based brand The Poet is the place to begin, and/or end, your search. With an array of products, many of which are under $100, this beautiful label has something for every mum. Shop the collections online here.

Delicious Vibrant Beauty

Located in Milton on the South Coast of NSW, Delicious Vibrant Beauty was founded by certified holistic health coach and yoga teacher Tracey Gunn, who has made it her mission to create beautiful oils and skincare products that are kind to your body, and the earth. The perfect self care for mum, shop the gorgeous range online here.

Recreation Beauty

Made in Sydney’s Bondi Beach, these all-natural perfumes are made from ethically sourced, local ingredients with a range of fresh and floral smells. Ranging from $50-$100, you can view the collection and order online here.

Drunken Sailor

The Sydney-based kitchen whizzes of Drunken Sailor Canning Co. have all of your condiment dreams covered – seriously, these are the real deal and are the perfect surprise for mum’s breakfast in bed come May 9. With a range of jams, relishes, mustards and pickles, the flavour choices are endless. Shop their selection priced from $9.50, and take your pick of their delicious flavours here.

Torquay Merchant

Victoria-based Torquay Merchant offers plenty of trinkets perfect for mum with a range of local creatives delivering the goods. Their beautiful selection of hand painted ceramics in particular make the perfect artsy gift. Priced from around $85 and offering safe delivery to your door, order one online here.

IMBIBE

Byron Bay-based skincare brand IMBIBE has saved you the search time and come up with the ultimate mothers day combo, consisting of their Miracle Collagen, Beauty Renewal Probiotic Concentrate, a complimentary Loco Love Wild Rose ganache chocolate and complimentary gift wrapping. $80, order it online here.

Poppy Rose

If you’re Brisbane-based, this florist is blooming with options when it comes to surprising mum this Mother’s Day. With a range of fresh, colourful blooms on offer, you can simply pre-order a bunch for now, or whenever works best to arrive safely with your loved one. Ranging from $49-$79 each, order them online here.

Hunter Made

Another collective providing plenty of Mother’s Day inspiration is FAID Store, which houses a number of up-and-coming Australian designers, creating an online hive of local talent. Featuring gorgeous handmade 100% silk scarfs priced from $45, your mama will be looking chic, and feeling super loved with a gift like this. Order one online here.

Avery & Arlo

As we head into the cooler months, a warm cosy knit is the perfect antidote for mum – and this Williamstown-based store Avery & Arlo offers the goods. How perfect is this beautiful fine knit cardigan? $69, order it online here.

Well Made Clothes

Aussie company Well Made Clothes is all about supporting local talent with an ethos entrenched in fashion made ethically and sustainably. This adorable flax bag made by The Beach People sums it up perfectly, it’s made from woven recycling paper! $82, order it online here.

House of Lita

With clothes, accessories and homewares, Newcastle-based brand House of Lita have a plethora of items perfect for mum – but be careful, you might find yourself adding a lot more to cart than expected, their selection is pure heaven! This is their P.F. Candle Co. Sweet Grapefruit Candle. $38, order it online here.

Floral Friday!

The post Treat mum on Mother’s Day AND support small businesses with these unique gift ideas appeared first on Now To Love.

And with Christmas having just delivered the annual gut-punch to our bank accounts, it’s time we all got on top of our everyday expenses.

Keep scrolling for a handful of ways to stay on top of your finances in 2021.

Keep a weekly budget that allows some room for personal spending

If you struggle with habitual overspending (and remain stuck in a financial rut because of it), you’ll also struggle to go cold turkey if you haven’t put the right steps in place.

Many of the boundaries we create in our head (examples include: “I’ll stop spending today” or “This will be my last splurge in a while”) end up falling flat, simply because we haven’t put them in writing.

If you allow a reasonable weekly budget for spending on yourself, you’ll be surprised at how much less you’ll struggle with simple budgeting tasks. Instead of saying, “I can afford this second coffee or takeaway lunch because I’ll just spend less later in the week”, you’ll have a signifier of when you need to stop. Simple, but effective.

Seek out companies that suit your circumstances (and your values)

Back in the day, buying insurance or healthcare meant going with any large company, but in 2021, you have a lot more options.

If you’re a woman trying to find an insurance policy — whether you’re a student, a single mum, or a business professional — there’s the option to shop around for a company that tailors its products to suit your lifestyle and needs.

Stella Insurance, for example, is a brand that prides itself on providing more than just car insurance. Both the brand and its products are designed with women in mind using research from their customers (women!) to tailor its policies to suit. That means benefits such as up to $2,000 for baby gear that is damaged in or stolen from your car, and up to $1,000 for certain personal belongings, like a handbag, that are stolen with your car or damaged in an accident.*

Beyond this, Stella has created a community (@stellainsurance) to educate, empower and support women across a range of areas, including financial savviness, to help change the status quo for women in Australia.

Not only does Stella work to find the best deal for you, it hopes to ensure that financial wisdom will be passed down to a new generation of women.

Closely monitor your bills to see where you’re being overcharged

Ever had the realisation you’ve been overcharged for something for months, or even years, yet slipped up because you didn’t keep on top of your bills? It’s a situation that pretty much all of us can relate to.

Interestingly, many people avoid going through their bills for this exact reason, and would rather live in blissful ignorance (even as the financial pressure mounts).

Every time you see a bill or statement, go through it thoroughly and see what you’re not using, and where you could cut back. Even when you’re paying the lowest you can, start to explore other competitive companies. Think of it as you would when browsing the supermarket and analysing the value of sale items.

See what you can sell

In a world of eBay, Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace, there’s been no better (or easier) time to sell items that are no longer of use. And you probably have some hidden gems lying around that could earn you a big chunk of cash, but have just been too busy (or lazy) to sift through.

See what you, or others in your household, are holding onto that they aren’t using anymore, and set aside a chunk of time to see how much they go for online. After all, one person’s trash is another’s treasure.

Buy in bulk and prepare meals accordingly

Meal-prepping not only saves time and energy during the work week, but can also save a tonne of money when done properly.

Everyone knows that it’s the little costs that end up stacking on top of each other – and while bulk-buying might be costlier initially, it can end up taking a large chunk off your finances.

While a number of bulk grocery stores exist throughout Australia, the tip is to only spend on items you know you’ll need, and not get enticed into good deals just for the sake of it (as we do every time we go to Costco). If you live off what you need and are prepared to endure the initial cost, the purchases will be worth it.

Brought to you by Stella. Car insurance by women, for women.

**Policy terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions apply. Any advice provided is general advice and does not take your personal circumstances into consideration. Please read the Stella product disclosure statement (PDS) available at https://www.stellainsurance.com.au/legal for the terms, conditions, and exclusions before purchasing this insurance. Stella Underwriting (ABN 72 633 811 319) is an Authorised Representative (AR 001282046) of Allstate Insurance Pty Ltd (ABN 82 073 267 053, AFSL 239010) which is acting under its own AFSL on behalf of the product issuer, QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited (ABN 78 003 191 035, AFSL 239545).*

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