HELP debt changes, company shares & first home hacks – Q&A

20% HELP debt reduction, new superannuation rules, salary sacrificing for company shares — this week’s Q&A is packed with hot topics and practical money tips. In this Friday episode of the Australian Finance Podcast, your hosts Owen Rask and Gemma Mitchell are answering your questions on: – Whether salary sacrificing for company shares is worth it — and the concentration risk you need to watch out for – The pros and cons of a 19-year-old buying an investment property while still living at home (and whether it’s worth forgoing the First Home Buyer Grant) – How to handle superannuation beneficiaries if you’re single with no dependants – The age-old question: pay bills as they come in or wait until they’re due? – And finally, what candlestick trading actually is — and whether it’s a real investing strategy or just market noise Plus, Owen and Gemma unpack the latest government announcements, including the 20% HELP debt reduction and new super changes affecting balances over $3 million and $10 million. If you like this episode of the Australian Finance Podcast, make sure to subscribe for weekly shows on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts — and don’t forget to send in your questions for future Q&As using the link below. Chapters (approximate) (00:00) Introduction (04:20) Understanding HECS/HELP Debt Changes (08:52) Superannuation Tax Changes Explained (14:58) Navigating Salary Sacrifice and Concentration Risk (21:19) Investment Property vs. First Home Buyers Grant (24:22) Candlestick Trading and Market Speculation (27:18) Leaving Super to Family Members (30:00) Managing Bills and Financial Communication Resources for this episode HELP DEBT info HELP DEBT REDUCTION Calculator DIV296 Buy Gemma’s book The Money Reset Ask a question (select the Finance podcast) Show partner resources Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith View Betashares range of funds Rask resources All services Financial Planning Invest with us Access Show Notes Ask a question We love feedback! Follow us on social media: Instagram: @rask.invest TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices