Mark Bristow

What is the average length of a home loan?

Many Australians start out with a 30-year mortgage, though shorter and longer home loan terms are also available from some lenders. The length of your home loan can affect the cost of your repayments, as well as how much interest you’ll pay.

Can I choose a superannuation fund or does my employer choose one for me?

Most Australians can choose their own superannuation fund, though a small number may have limited super options available to them. If you don’t choose a superannuation fund, your employer will choose one for you.

How do you deposit change into your bank account?

Most banks will let you deposit change into your bank account by visiting a branch or using a deposit ATM. You may also be able to exchange your loose shrapnel for more manageable banknotes at bank branches and some post offices, though you may be charged a fee.

Can you register and insure a car without a licence?

It is possible to buy, register and insure a car without a driver’s licence in Australia, though most states and territories handle this process slightly differently from one another. However, it is important to note that you won’t be covered if you’re illegally driving the car without a licence and are involved in an accident.

Can you claim home insurance on taxes?

In most instances, you cannot claim home insurance as an expense on your taxes, because homes are used for personal purposes. However, according to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), you may claim some portion of the home insurance expense if you use your residence to run your home-based business.

Some of the best home loans for investors and refinancers in December 2022

As 2022 comes to a close, what can Australia look forward to in 2023? More rate rises may be on the cards, making it important for investors and refinancers to carefully compare mortgage offers before making any decisions.

Who is still offering low-rate home loans after the December 2022 rate hike?

As Australia’s banks and mortgage lenders gradually pass the latest cash rate hike from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) on to their customers, a few lenders are still offering relatively low home loan rates or have even cut rates for new customers.

How do you pay superannuation?

Superannuation is paid by employers to employees, in both small and large businesses. Employees can also choose to make their own additional super contributions to help fund their retirement lifestyle. 

Which banks have hiked savings account and term deposit rates in December 2022?

Australians hoping to save more money in the new year may welcome the news that many banks are raising interest rates on savings accounts and term deposits. And with even more rate hikes forecast for 2023, it may become even easier for Australians to earn interest on their savings.

Rates have hiked: What can I expect when my fixed rate period ends?

With home loan interest rates on the rise thanks to cash rate hikes from the RBA, mortgage holders sitting on fixed rates may be breathing a sigh of relief. But there’s a chance that there could be a sting in the tail at the end of each fixed rate term, which borrowers may need to watch out and prepare for.