The growth of Australian home values is not slowing down with national gains continuing. Cotality’s national Home Value Index rose 3.1% over the quarter to December, growing 1.0% in November, marking the third month in a row where Australian home values have increased by 1% or more. However, the pace of growth is moderating, coming down from 1.1% in October.

Before the February rate cut, housing conditions were losing momentum, even recording flat to falling values through late 2024 and January 2025,” said Tim Lawless, Cotality’s research director. “The first rate cut in February marked a clear turning point, with home values moving through a positive inflection across most regions and gathering steam since then.”

Markets are starting to diverge

The larger capital cities had gains, with Sydney property values rising 0.5% and Melbourne, the second largest capital city, increasing by 0.3% in November. All of the other capital cities had gains of 1% or higher throughout the month, with Perth leading the way with a 2.4% surge in value.

Cotality’s research director, Tim Lawless stated that the growth across the mid-sized capitals is diverging from the larger capital cities, which is similar to what we saw back in 2023 and 2024.

“The skew towards the mid-sized capitals is especially evident in Perth, where listings are holding more than 40% below average, buyer demand is elevated and the 2.4% monthly rise in dwelling values has added just over $21,000 to the median in November, roughly $5,000/week.”

Supply remains tight

Auction clearance rates peaked in mid-September and have been trending lower in the following months, falling below the decade average by mid-November with the larger capital cities, Sydney and Melbourne seeing clearance rates sitting around 60% in the second half of November.

Housing supply is continuing to remain scarce for a number of reasons, with affordability being the main factor, followed by skilled labour shortage, which is holding back the construction of homes.

Inflation causing concern

There is renewed pressure on the Reserve Bank of Australia, with inflation increasing again in October to 3.8%, up from 3.6% in September. This rise indicates the RBA will not make a rate cut and there has been speculation that the cash rate will be held for an extended period of time, or the RBA may even consider a rate hike in December or February 2026, which would be a concern for first home buyers and mortgagees alike.

Changes to lending criteria may impact the market

In a recent announcement from Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), there will be changes to limit the high debt-to-income (DTI) ratio of loans. Mr. Lawless noted the majority of recent mortgage originations remain significantly below a DTI of six or more. “This new credit policy won’t be implemented until February next year, but even then, it’s likely to only affect the margins of borrowing activity,” Mr Lawless said.

Dwelling values over the quarter 

Melbourne

The Victorian capital saw a modest 1.6% quarterly move according to Cotality figures, taking the city’s median dwelling price to $823,495. Investors should take note that the gross rental yield figure for Melbourne is 3.6%.

Sydney

Sydney experienced a dwelling value change of 1.8% resulting in a median of $1.269 million. The gross rental yield for the Harbour City remains the lowest of the capitals at 3.0%.

Brisbane

The Queensland capital continues to record the second most expensive spot for dwelling values at $1.015 million and a quarterly rise of 5.5%. Brisbane has recorded a gross rental yield of 3.4%.

Canberra

The national capital recorded a rise of 2.2% during the quarter with the median now sitting at $891,626. For Canberra, the gross rental yield is 4.0%.

 Perth

Perth prices increased 7.4% over the quarter, taking its medium to $914,229. Perth recorded 3.9% gross rental yield.

For more information about how you might be able to purchase a property in the current market, get in touch with us today 0n 03 9723 0522.

Note: all figures in the city snapshots are sourced from: Cotality national Home Value Index (December 2025)

If you have any questions or need any information please give us a call on 039723 0522.

The holidays are a time for joy, good food, and catching up with the people you care about. They are also a time when your spending can quietly start sabotaging your savings while you are distracted by twinkling lights. The good news is that with a little planning and a few smart choices, you can enjoy the season without having to wave goodbye to your financial goals.

On the first day of Christmas… I made myself a plan

A plan does not have to be complicated. Just take a short amount of time to jot down the main holiday costs including gifts, food, decorations, social events, and travel and set a realistic limit for each. It keeps spending in check without making the season feel like a math class.

Tips:

• Make a list and check it twice!
• Decide a comfortable amount for each person before you start shopping.
• Take advantage of loyalty programs.
• Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses so you do not feel caught off guard.

Gift from the heart, not the store

It’s easy to get caught up in the consumer frenzy that is Christmas. Let’s face it, the shops are set up to entice with decorations and lovely displays and it’s almost impossible to avoid the temptations of online shopping. However, while no one wants to be a Scrooge, once the wrapping paper is off you can be left with a big hole in your bank account. It’s important to remember – gifts do not need to be expensive to be memorable and experiences are often even better than objects.

Tips:

• Bake a batch of cookies or homemade fudge, with a handwritten note.
• Frame a photo of a special memory.
• Plan a day trip to create memories that last longer than anything bought in a store.
• Secret Santa or gift swaps can make things easier while keeping the fun alive.

Eat, drink and be merry

Food is a highlight of the season, but it does not need to eat into your budget. Keeping things simple with no frills but tasty food, a holiday playlist, or a signature drink can make the occasion feel festive without a big price tag.

Tips:

• Plan your menu with a budget in mind.
• Buy in bulk and when things are on special and freeze in advance.
• Ask guests to contribute an entrée, nibbles or drinks.
• Potluck gatherings are a smart way to share the load while enjoying everyone’s cooking.

Holidays that focus on fun without forking out

If you are travelling, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a trip without overspending. Camping and self-catering accommodations are often cheaper and more flexible than hotels. You also get the bonus of cooking your own meals, taking things at your own pace, and skipping overpriced convenience food.

Tips:

• Book early to grab better rates.
• Pack snacks and simple meals to save money on the go.
• Look for free or low-cost activities such as markets, hiking trails, or seasonal events.
• Reduce costs by using public transportation and packing light to avoid baggage fees on airlines.

More ho ho ho, less owe owe owe

It can be tempting to rely on credit cards or Buy Now Pay Later plans, especially when the holiday rush is on. But these can easily turn manageable spending into long-term stress. Sticking to what you can comfortably afford keeps the season fun and worry-free.

The holidays are about connection, laughter, and making memories. Planning ahead, being creative, and keeping spending in perspective, helps the season feel joyful and meaningful. Think of your budget as a helpful guide, not a rulebook. It lets you enjoy the season fully without any regret.

Well-planned festivities let you focus on what really matters. Celebrate in ways that are joyful, memorable, and kind to your savings. The best moments rarely come with a receipt.

Stay up to date with what’s happened in the Australian economy and markets over the past month.

The economy came under renewed pressure in November as inflation accelerated.

Higher inflation and a stronger labour market strengthened the view that the Reserve Bank of Australia’s easing cycle may have ended and fuelled speculation of a rate hike.

The ASX200 finished the month down 3%, marking its biggest drop in eight months. Major banks led the losses due to valuation concerns and fading hopes of near-term policy easing.

Global shares rose over the last week of November as the US shares rebounded on the back of increased confidence that the Fed will cut rates next month.

The positive global lead also pulled up Australian shares although they were constrained by a further rise in local inflation leading to talk that the next move by the RBA may be a rate hike later next year.

Click here to view our update.

Please get in touch on 03 9723 0522 if you’d like assistance with your personal financial situation.

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Croydon, Victoria 3136

Email: integrityone@iplan.com.au

Telephone : 03 9723 0522

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This information is of a general nature and does not take into consideration anyone’s individual circumstances or objectives. Financial Planning activities only are provided by Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd (ABN 35 994 727 125) as a Corporate Authorised Representative (1316489) of Integrity Financial Planners Pty Ltd (AFSL 225051). Integrity One Wealth Advisers Pty Ltd and Integrity One Accounting and Business Advisory Services Pty Ltd are not liable for any financial loss resulting from decisions made based on this information. Please consult your adviser, finance specialist, broker, and/or accountant before making decisions using this information.

The best time to start planning for retirement is yesterday.

But the second-best time? Today.

About two-thirds of Australians retire earlier than they anticipated because of unexpected events such as job loss or redundancy, they need to care for a family member, have a sudden illness or injury, problems at work or a partner’s decision to retire.

But, whether you’re in your 50s, 60s, or even beyond, it’s never too late to take meaningful steps toward a more secure and fulfilling retirement.

The good news is that with the right guidance and a few smart moves, you can still build a retirement plan that reflects your values, supports your lifestyle and gives you peace of mind.

Where to begin

Before you make any changes, it’s important to understand your current financial position. This includes:

• your superannuation balance
• other savings or investments
• debts such as your mortgage, credit cards and personal loans
• expected retirement income sources including the Age Pension, rental income and part-time work

Boost your super

Even if you’re starting later, there are ways to accelerate your super growth using:

• Salary sacrifice Contributing pre-tax income into super can reduce your taxable income while boosting your retirement savings.
• Personal contributions You may be eligible for a tax deduction or government co-contribution depending on your income.
• Catch-up contributions You may be eligible to add to your super but be aware of the caps on contributions.

These strategies can be especially powerful in your 50s and 60s, when your income may be higher and retirement is on the horizon.

It’s also a good idea to regularly consider your super investment options and review your risk tolerance and time horizon.

Deal with debt

If possible, getting your debt under control before you retire is a useful strategy.

You could consider using your superannuation or other savings or downsize your home to pay off a mortgage or other loans. But first, it’s essential to carefully check the tax impact, the effect on your super and whether any potential government benefits will be affected.

Reassess your lifestyle goals

Retirement isn’t just about money, it’s about how and where you want to live, how much travel you’d like to do and if you’d continue to work part-time.

Clarifying your lifestyle goals helps shape your financial strategy. It also ensures your retirement plan reflects your values, not just your bank balance.

How much will I really need?

Aim to create a retirement budget. Estimate your future expenses including housing, food, travel and healthcare and compare them to your expected income. This helps identify any shortfalls and guides your savings strategy.

You will also need to consider the amount of time you might spend in retirement. This will depend on when you retire (planned or unexpected) and how long you live. This is called longevity risk. Given life expectancy is unpredictable, there is a possibility that your retirement savings may not last throughout retirement.

Understand your entitlements

Many Australians are eligible for government support in retirement, including:

• Age Pension Based on income and assets, available from age 67 (for those born after 1957).
• Concession cards For discounts on healthcare, transport and utilities.
• Rent assistance If you’re renting privately and receive the Age Pension.

Even if you don’t qualify now, you may be able to restructure your finances to maximise future entitlements.

Review regularly and remain flexible

Retirement planning isn’t a one-time event. Life changes and so should your strategy. Regular reviews help you:

• Adjust for market movements or legislative changes
• Update your goals and spending patterns
• Ensure your estate planning is current

Flexibility is key. Whether you retire gradually, take a sabbatical, or pivot to a new venture, your plan should evolve with you.

Next steps

Retirement planning is about taking the next step rather than chasing perfection. Whether you’re starting late or simply refining your strategy, every step you take now helps shape a more secure and meaningful future.

And remember that retirement isn’t an end point. It’s a new beginning even if you retire earlier than you anticipated. With the right plan in place, you can step into this next chapter with clarity, confidence and purpose.

We’d be happy to help you review your current retirement plan and identify any gaps in retirement goals and create a strategy should you need to retire earlier than expected.

How much tax you pay on your super contributions and withdrawals depends on:

• your total super amount
• your age
• the type of contribution or withdrawal you make

If you inherit someone’s super after they die, the person’s super fund pays you a super death benefit. You may have to pay tax on some of this benefit.

Because everyone’s situation is different, it’s always best to get advice about tax matters. Contact the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) or speak to us.

How super contributions are taxed

Money paid into your super account by your employer is taxed at 15%. So are salary-sacrificed contributions, also known as concessional contributions.

There are some exceptions to this rule:

• If you earn $37,000 or less, the tax is paid back into your super account through the low-income super tax offset (LISTO) .
• If your income and super contributions combined are more than $250,000, you pay Division 293 tax, an extra 15%.

If you make contributions from your after-tax income – known as non-concessional contributions – you don’t pay any contributions tax.

See the ATO website for more information about how much tax you’ll pay on super contributions.

Smart tip: To avoid paying extra tax on your super, make sure you give your super fund your Tax File Number.

How super investment earnings are taxed

Earnings on investments within your super fund are taxed at 15%. This includes interest and dividends, less any tax deductions or credits.

How super withdrawals are taxed

The amount of tax you pay depends on whether you withdraw your super as:

• a super income stream, or
• a lump sum

Everyone’s financial situation is unique, especially when it comes to tax. Make an informed decision. We recommend speaking to us before you decide to withdraw your super.

Super income stream

A super income stream is when you withdraw your money as small regular payments over a long period of time.

If you’re aged 60 or over, this income is usually tax-free.

If you’re under 60, you may pay tax on your super income stream.

Lump sum withdrawals

If you’re aged 60 or over and withdraw a lump sum:

• You don’t pay any tax when you withdraw from a taxed super fund.
• You may pay tax if you withdraw from an untaxed super fund, such as a public sector fund.

If you’re under age 60 and withdraw a lump sum:

• You don’t pay tax if you withdraw up to the ‘low rate cap’, currently $260,000.
• If you withdraw an amount above the low rate cap, you pay 17% tax (including the Medicare levy) or your marginal tax rate, whichever is lower.

If you have not yet reached your preservation age:

• You pay 22% (including the Medicare levy) or your marginal tax rate, whichever is lower.

When someone dies

When someone dies, their super is usually paid to their beneficiary. This is called a super death benefit.

If you’re a beneficiary, the amount of tax you pay on a death benefit depends on:

• the tax-free and taxable components of the super
• whether you’re a dependent for tax purposes
• whether you take the benefit as an income stream or a lump sum

Contact us today if you have any questions.

Reproduced with the permission of ASIC’s MoneySmart Team. This article was originally published at https://moneysmart.gov.au/how-super-works/tax-and-super

Before you retire

If you’re planning to retire, you need to consider:

• your age, including if you have reached your preservation age
• your super
• how much tax you will pay on amounts you receive
• if good leaver conditions apply if you are part of an employee share scheme
• if the retirement capital gains tax concession applies if you sell your small business.

Special rules apply if you receive an employment termination payment, genuine redundancy payment or payments from an approved early retirement scheme.

If you’re leaving your job for other reasons, such as termination, change of industry or leaving Australia, the tax on payments you receive may be different.

Payments leading into retirement

If you receive a lump sum payment from your employer for unused annual or long service leave, you may pay tax on it at a lower rate than your other income. Your employer will report any lump sum payments at either ‘Lump sum A’ or ‘Lump sum B’ on your income statement or payment summary. You will need these details when you prepare your tax return.

A genuine redundancy payment is a payment made to you usually because the job you have been doing has been abolished. These payments are tax-free to a limit depending on the number of years you worked for that employer.

Your employer may offer staff an early retirement scheme to encourage certain groups of employees to retire early or resign. You may pay less tax on payments you receive under an early retirement scheme.

After you retire

Once you retire, you can access a number of tax offsets, such as:

• seniors and pensioners tax offset
• superannuation income stream tax offset.

If you have income from an Australian superannuation income stream, you may be able to claim a tax offset if you’re:

• receiving a disability superannuation benefit
• receiving a death benefit income stream
• 60 or over.

Employee share schemes

If you are a member of an employee share scheme (ESS), you need to consider the ‘good leaver’ conditions. Good leaver conditions in an ESS may allow employees to retain ESS interests if they cease employment to retire from the workforce permanently during the forfeiture period.

Whether ESS interests acquired under an ESS with good leaver conditions are at a real risk of forfeiture will depend on the facts and circumstances. This includes how the ESS operates and the employee’s personal circumstances.

CGT retirement exemption for small business

If you are selling your small business assets, the capital gains tax retirement concession may apply. The retirement concession can exempt a capital gain on a business asset, up to a lifetime retirement exemption limit of $500,000. This concession allows you to provide for your retirement.

If you choose the retirement exemption, there is no requirement to terminate any activity or cease business.

If you are under 55 years old just before you choose to use the retirement exemption, you must make a personal contribution equal to the exempt amount to a complying superannuation fund or a retirement savings account.

Speak to us if you have any questions.

Source: ato.gov.au June 2025
Reproduced with the permission of the Australian Tax Office. This article was originally published on https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/jobs-and-employment-types/working-as-an-employee/leaving-the-workforce/planning-to-retire