Articles by

Barbara Drury

Barbara is a financial journalist and author with over 30 years’ experience in Australia and the UK. She is a contributor to The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age Money section, and has worked for the Australian Financial Review and The Australian.

How to compare super funds in 7 easy steps

Comparing super funds may not seem very exciting, but getting into a quality fund that meets your needs could be one of the best things you do for your retirement.
Low Income Tax Offset (LITO): How it works

Low-income earners may be eligible to reduce their tax bill by as much as $700, without lifting a finger. Check our guide to who’s eligible and for how much.
What to teach your (big) kids about super

If your kids are old enough to have scored their first fulltime or part-time job, now’s the time to pass on everything you wish you’d known about super at their age.
What government services are available for older Australians?

With the cost of living on the rise, it’s worth making the most of the government discounts and services for older Australians in your state or territory.
Financial advice: We want it, but cost is an issue

With the cost of living on the rise, Australians are concerned about their finances but can’t find the advice they need at a cost they are willing to pay.
Is an SMSF right for you?

SMSFs have many fine qualities, but they’re not for everyone. Before you leap in, it’s important to weigh up the costs and benefits for your personal situation.
What are the different types of super funds?

Choosing an excellent super fund can make a big difference to your retirement outcomes. The first step is an understanding of the five broad categories of funds on offer.
2022 year in review, 2023 year in preview

After a year dominated by rising inflation and interest rates, war in Ukraine and negative returns, investors will be hoping for a soft landing in the year ahead.
Latest MySuper heatmap highlights best and worst performers

APRA’s blowtorch, in the form of its MySuper Heatmap, appears to be working, with fewer funds underperforming or exiting the industry in 2022.
How much super do you need to set up an SMSF?

It’s a debate that never entirely goes away, but there’s a growing body of research that indicates you may not need as much to start your own super fund as previously thought.
What are unrestricted and restricted non-preserved super benefits?

Your pot of retirement savings in super may actually be divided into several smaller pots, some of which can be withdrawn sooner than others.
How to find your lost super

If you are wondering why you have so little super to show for all your hard work, it may be time to search for super accounts you forgot you had.
What are the Age Pension residency rules?

The Age Pension is highly prized, but your eligibility and the amount you receive will depend on your residency status among other things.
The arm’s length rule for SMSFs

Self-managed super funds are generally a family affair, but “mates rates” for fund transactions or business dealings are strictly off limits.
How do I transfer a UK pension to an Australian super fund?

It can make sense to bring your UK pension funds home to Australia, but the process is far from straightforward. We explain how it’s done.
How to prepare for an SMSF auditor and fill in your SMSF tax return

Even if you outsource most of the boring SMSF admin, there are two annual tasks trustees can’t avoid.
2021-22 Year in Review: Volatility reigns

Investors climbed a wall of worries in the closing months of the financial year, from rising inflation and interest rates to fears of recession.
How to create an investment portfolio in retirement

Structuring an investment portfolio designed to support you throughout retirement is a different challenge to the strategies you used to build wealth during your working life.