Can you withdraw a home insurance claim?

Accidents happen and sometimes the need to make a home insurance claim can arise. However, after considering your options, you may decide that you want to withdraw your request and cancel your claim. What are your options when it comes to cancelling claims?

What's the average gas bill in Australia?

What is the average price of natural gas in Australia? This will depend on where you live, but understanding the average gas bill may help you find a better deal for your household.

How do you calculate superannuation from a total package salary?

When you start a new job, your employment contract will stipulate whether your income is inclusive of super or your super is paid in addition. If your income is inclusive of super, it will be taken out of what you earn, reducing your take-home pay.

Should I get a fixed or variable personal loan?

There are a few distinct differences between fixed interest and variable rate personal loans, so it’s important to weigh up your options before determining which type is right for you and your financial situation. Don't forget to also consider other features of the loan you're applying for.

Am I entitled to superannuation if I'm not an Australian citizen?

If you’re an expat visiting and working in Australia, your employer may be required to make superannuation contributions on your behalf to a super fund of your choosing. Selecting the right super fund can make all the difference to your total savings.

Does the Family Tax Benefit count as income?

The Family Tax Benefit is a two-part government payment designed to assist Australian families with the cost of raising children. It’s important you do not miscalculate your gross family income when applying for, and while receiving, support - you may wind up with a debt to Centrelink.

Are bikes covered under home insurance?

If your bike is stolen or damaged as a result of an unexpected event such as a break-in, fire, flood or storm, this could cause significant inconvenience to your routine. However, standalone home insurance won't protect your possessions, such as a bike. You'll need additional cover.

The risks of cryptocurrency trading: what to look out for

Most cryptocurrencies are unstable assets, prone to significant market movements and vulnerable to abrupt abolition. While there are some proven stayers, much of the industry is relatively fickle and exchanges have encountered extreme levels of volatility since inception.

Medibank and Optus hacks serve as timely reminder to check your credit score

Your credit score helps lenders determine whether or not you’re an equitable borrower. Performing regular credit score checks is a sensible, preventative measure to monitor whether someone has illicitly used your personal information to obtain a line of credit.

7 key budget announcements and how they'll affect your finances

The budget outlines the financial approach the government will take to secure Australia’s economic future. Despite fears of a looming global recession, there are some interesting and potentially positive announcements to be drawn from Labor’s first federal budget since 2013/14.