Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. With over four decades of experience, we’re here to simplify the process and guide you through every step, from understanding your eligibility for grants to securing the best mortgage.

Grants and Schemes You Could Qualify For:

• First Homeowner Grant: Up to $10,000 in Metro Melbourne, $20,000 in regional Victoria.
• Stamp Duty Exemptions: For properties under $600,000.
• Stamp Duty Concession: For properties between $600,001 and $750,000.
• First Home Guarantee: Only a 5% deposit needed, with NHFIC guaranteeing up to 15%.
• Family Home Guarantee: For single parents, with just a 2% deposit and NHFIC guaranteeing up to 18%.

Expert Support, Every Step of the Way

Once we’ve assessed your eligibility, our mortgage specialists will help you navigate the application process. With access to over 50 lenders, we’ll ensure you get the most competitive mortgage deal.

Let’s Make Your Dream Home a Reality

We’re here to help you every step of the way. Book a free, no-obligation consultation 15-minute free no-obligation with one of our experts today and start your journey toward homeownership.

If you’re thinking about renting a room in a rooming house, you’re likely looking for something affordable, flexible, and practical. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or just in between living arrangements, rooming houses can be a great solution.

But what should you expect/ consider before making your move?

1. Shared Space & Amenity
Typically, you’ll have your own private room, but the rest of the house—like the kitchen, bathroom, and living areas—will be shared with other tenants. This means you’ll need to be comfortable with communal living. Most rooming houses have clear guidelines around shared responsibilities, like cleaning and being mindful of noise. It’s all about mutual respect and good communication to make sure everyone feels at home.

2. A Slightly Different Rental Arrangement
Before moving in, you’ll be asked to sign an occupancy agreement. This document is important as it outlines the details of your stay, such as the rent, the duration of your tenancy, and the rules of the house. These rules often cover things like guest policies, quiet hours, and cleaning duties. Be sure to read the agreement carefully so you understand everything upfront—this can help avoid any surprises later on.

3. A Cost-Saving Living Solution
One of the biggest advantages of rooming houses is that they’re generally more affordable than renting an entire apartment or house. In many cases, rent also includes utilities like water, electricity, and sometimes even Wi-Fi, which makes budgeting much easier. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm exactly what’s included in the rent before signing anything.

4. Safety Measures & Compliance
Safety is also a priority in rooming houses. They are required by law to meet certain safety standards, such as working smoke alarms and fire exits. Some may even offer added security features, like cameras or key access systems, to make you feel more secure.

If You Are Looking to Rent a Rooming House
The Hopkins Group is a trusted licensed rooming house operator, with an array of rooming house and co-living properties across Melbourne and Victoria for renters looking for a more flexible and affordable living solution.

Our listings are available on all major rental real estate websites, as well as on our website under ‘property’ and ‘rental property’. You can also contact us on 1300 762 136 and speak to our property team for our list of rooming house/ co-living properties currently available for rent.

If you’re looking to invest in a rooming house or need expert property management for your rooming house investment, we’d love to help.

Book a free, no-obligation 15-minute https://outlook.office365.com/book/MichaelWilliamsBookings@thehopkinsgroup.com.au/ discovery session to discuss how we can assist you in achieving your financial goals, whether for yourself, your family, or your future.

Estate planning might seem daunting, but it’s essential to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are carried out when you can no longer make decisions. Too often, people delay planning until it’s too late, leaving families to manage the aftermath during an already difficult time. By planning ahead, you make sure your family’s future is secure and your intentions are clear.

Why Estate Planning Matters

If you don’t have a plan in place, your assets may not go to the people you want them to. Without a will, your estate will be divided according to the law, which can cause confusion and stress for your family. Having a clear estate plan ensures your property and healthcare decisions are in good hands and helps prevent potential disputes between loved ones.

The Key Documents You Will Need are:

1. A Will – This is the foundation of your estate plan. It outlines who gets what and who will look after your children if they’re minors. It’s also a great way to set out your funeral wishes.
2. Power of Attorney (POA) – If something happens and you’re unable to manage your affairs, a POA lets you appoint someone to make financial and legal decisions for you. You can also set up an Enduring Power of Attorney to keep this in place if you lose the ability to make decisions.
3. Enduring Guardian or Living Will – An Enduring Guardian makes personal and healthcare decisions for you if you’re not able to. A Living Will outlines your preferences for medical care, especially if you can’t speak for yourself.
4. Trusts – A trust lets you pass assets to others in a way that can help reduce taxes and avoid long, drawn-out probate processes. It’s an effective way to protect your estate and ensure your loved ones receive what you intend.

How Can a Financial Advisor Help You Plan Ahead?

• Establish an Optimised Estate Plan– From establishing a trust to strategic allocation of your assets, a financial advisor can help you navigate the complex legal and legislative requirement needed to establish the optimise structure for your estate planning.
• Avoid Family Drama – Estate disputes are all too common, but clear instructions in a well-thought-out plan can save your family from unnecessary conflict.
• Save Your Loved Ones from Stress – Without a plan, your family may face tough decisions at a time when they’re least prepared. Having everything sorted out gives them peace of mind.
• Reduce Taxes – Planning your estate carefully can help minimise tax burdens for your beneficiaries, ensuring more of your assets go to them rather than the government.

Take Control of Your Future

Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s simply about making sure your loved ones are taken care of when you’re no longer able to do so. If you’re ready to start, book a free, no-obligation 15-minute chat The Hopkins Group – Financial Planning with one of our advisors to get the ball rolling.

Retirement is a significant milestone that requires thoughtful planning to ensure a smooth transition. Below are ten essential steps that every professional should take as they approach this next phase in life.

1. Assess Your Financial Situation – Begin by reviewing your current savings, investments, and superannuation contributions. Take stock of assets like property or valuables that may contribute to your retirement. Understanding your financial picture will help identify any gaps, enabling you to make the necessary adjustments. A conversation with a financial advisor can provide clarity and help create a plan for growing your savings.
   
2. Evaluate Pension and Superannuation Options – Your retirement fund is likely to be your primary income source in retirement. Review your superannuation or pension plans to ensure contributions are on track with your goals. Explore options like income streams or annuities, and be sure to assess your eligibility for government support, such as the Age Pension, to fill any potential income gaps.
   
3. Plan Your Retirement Budget – Estimate both essential living expenses and discretionary spending, such as travel or hobbies. Don’t forget to factor in rising healthcare costs and inflation. Creating a well-balanced budget will ensure that your savings last throughout your retirement. Revisiting your budget regularly will help keep you on track.
   
4. Review Health Insurance and Estate Planning – Take a close look at your health insurance coverage to ensure it suits your future needs, considering private options if necessary. It’s also important to update your will, power of attorney, and other estate documents to ensure your wishes are clearly documented. Consulting with an estate planning professional will help secure your assets for future generations.
   
5. Consider a Transition Plan – Easing into retirement gradually can make the shift smoother. Reducing your work hours or taking on consulting roles can help maintain a sense of purpose. Consider how you’ll spend your time, whether through hobbies, volunteering, or learning opportunities, to stay mentally and physically active in retirement.
   
6. Downsizer – explain what downsizer is and outline this strategy works well for people who have no debt or significant equity in their primary place of residence looking to downsize into smaller properties for lifestyle purposes and inject surplus into superannuation as a Downsizer contribution. Do some research on this and may want to include the same.
   
7. Optimise Contribution Strategies leading towards retirement – strategies to consider include, Salary Sacrifice, Bringing forward any Unused Concessional Contributions, arranging Non-Concessional Contributions. Do some research across these and you may want to include the same.
   
8. Tax – moving into retirement doesn’t mean you will not have tax implications. Consider your existing investments and identify if these will continue to have tax obligations into retirement, or consider how to optimise ownership structure to help offset or reduce future tax into retirement.
   
9. Debt Management – review current lending position and determine if any debt will be retained into retirement, or whether you will be expunging remaining debt and how this will be arranged.
   
10. Consult a Financial Advisor – Before making any major decisions, it is prudent to consult a qualified financial advisor. An advisor can provide personalised advice based on your specific circumstances and goals, ensuring your strategy is sound and aligned with your retirement aspirations.
    
    Ready to Plan for a Secured Retirement? Book a free no obligation 15-minute conversation The Hopkins Group – Financial Planning with one of our financial advisors to discuss your retirement goals and ensure you’re on the right path.

Purchasing a holiday home can be a rewarding investment, but it’s important to consider how to make the most financially beneficial decision. Here are five key tips to guide your purchase:

1. Clarify Your Purpose
Determine if the property will be your primary residence, a holiday home for personal use, or an investment property for rental income. This will affect your tax benefits, such as capital gains tax exemptions for primary residences or deductions for investment properties.

2. Understand Tax Implications
Tax benefits and obligations vary based on your property’s use. For investment properties, you can benefit from deductions on maintenance, management fees, and loan interest. Be sure to consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance and avoid any penalties.

3. Evaluate Financing Options
Banks may have stricter lending criteria for holiday homes or secondary properties. Shop around for the best mortgage rates and ensure your borrowing aligns with your financial goals. It’s best to contact your advisor to help guide you through the process.

4. Account for Ongoing Expenses
Holiday homes often require higher maintenance costs. Factor in utilities, insurance, management fees, and repairs, and set aside a budget for emergencies.

5. Maximise Rental Income
If your property is an investment, research the local rental market and understand any regulations around short-term rentals. Platforms like Airbnb can be lucrative but require compliance with local laws.

Key Takeaway
Whether for personal use or investment, make informed decisions by understanding the financial, tax, and legal aspects of purchasing a holiday home. Always consult with experts to avoid penalties and maximise your benefits.

If you have questions about purchasing a holiday home or need guidance on making the right financial decision, please contact your advisor or book a 15-minute free introductory meeting with one of them: https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/Gbb3a34b300e54bd69fcde3093183c30e@thehopkinsgroup.com.au/bookings/

As we approach the end of the financial year (EOFY), it’s essential to start planning now to make the most of the remaining months. By taking action early, you gain greater control over your cash flow, optimise tax-saving opportunities, and set realistic financial goals. Whether you’re managing personal finances or running a business, early preparation will help you finish the year on a strong note.

One of the main benefits of planning your EOFY now is better cash flow management. By reviewing your finances and anticipating key expenses, you can avoid last-minute financial stress. This proactive approach ensures you can cover large expenses—such as taxes, end-of-year bonuses, or any personal financial goals—without scrambling to find funds at the last minute.

Tax planning is another critical advantage of preparing for EOFY in advance. By taking the time now to assess your financial situation, you can make strategic moves to reduce your tax liabilities. Consider contributing to retirement funds or reviewing your deductions to maximise your tax benefits. Planning early allows you to make informed, strategic decisions that can positively impact your financial position.

Setting financial goals for the remainder of the year is far more effective when you plan ahead. Whether it’s saving for an upcoming expense, investing in your future, or improving your business finances, now is the time to define SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals. With a clear strategy in place, you’ll stay focused and motivated to meet your objectives before the EOFY.

Another significant advantage of planning ahead is the financial security it brings. When your finances are organised, you can approach the EOFY with confidence, knowing that you’re prepared for any surprises. With a clear plan, you can also navigate unforeseen events—such as changes in market conditions or interest rates—without derailing your financial goals.

Lastly, by planning now, you’ll be able to identify any potential risks or opportunities before it’s too late. Whether it’s investment opportunities, government incentives, or financial adjustments, early planning helps you make the most of any advantageous situation, boosting your financial health as you head into the next year.

Ready to take control of your EOFY? Contact us today at The Hopkins Group – 15 Quick Chat to discuss how we can help you achieve financial success in 2025!

When it comes to securing a mortgage, you might wonder whether it’s better to go directly to a bank or to use a mortgage broker. While both options can help you secure financing, brokers offer several key advantages that make the process easier and more efficient.

1. Broader Range of Products

Banks typically offer their own mortgage products, meaning your options are limited to what they provide. In contrast, mortgage brokers have access to a wide variety of mortgage products from multiple lenders. This flexibility allows brokers to find a deal that best suits your needs, whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for something more specialised, like a buy-to-let mortgage.

Brokers can also access exclusive deals that are not available to the public, potentially securing better interest rates or more favourable terms than a bank could offer.

2. A Stress-Free Process

Securing a mortgage involves a lot of paperwork and communication with lenders. When you go directly to a bank, you must handle most of this yourself. With a mortgage broker, however, they manage the entire process for you—from paperwork to liaising with lenders. This reduces your stress, saves you time, and ensures the application process runs smoothly.

Brokers also have a deep understanding of the requirements for different lenders, which can help avoid delays or mistakes that might arise when you’re navigating the process on your own.

3. Tailored Investment Strategies

While banks offer standard mortgage products, a mortgage broker provides personalised advice tailored to your specific financial situation and goals. Brokers can help with more than just securing a home loan—they can also assist in developing investment strategies, particularly if you’re interested in property investment. Whether you’re looking for tax-efficient options or advice on building a property portfolio, brokers bring expertise that banks simply can’t offer.

4. Independent Advice

Banks have their own products to sell, which can create a conflict of interest when advising you. A mortgage broker, however, works independently and is focused solely on finding the best deal for you. This impartial advice ensures you get the most competitive terms available based on your financial profile.

Conclusion

In short, mortgage brokers offer significant advantages over banks: access to a wider range of products, a stress-free application process, tailored investment strategies, and independent, expert advice. If you’re looking for a more personalised and efficient way to secure your mortgage or develop an investment strategy, a mortgage broker is likely your best option.

As we look to the coming year, the investment landscape presents both promising opportunities and potential challenges. At THG, we aim to provide our clients with the insights needed to make informed decisions, ensuring their portfolios are positioned for sustainable growth while effectively managing risk.

Strong Market Performance and Managing Expectations

Over the past year, markets have delivered impressive returns, with many portfolios benefiting from the post-pandemic recovery. However, this strong performance has sparked an air of optimism that may not be sustainable. While growth is expected to continue in the short term, it’s essential to recognise that volatility is inherent in the markets. Maintaining a realistic outlook is crucial, as past performance may not guarantee future results.

The Influence of Global Events and Technological Shifts

Recent political developments, such as the election of Donald Trump, have had an immediate impact on markets, with a notable boost to the US economy. Yet, these market movements, while significant, are often short-lived, and it’s vital to approach such shifts with caution.

In parallel, technological innovations—particularly in artificial intelligence—are generating excitement across industries. While the potential for growth in these sectors is substantial, returns are yet to match the high expectations that equity prices suggest. The pace of market enthusiasm may outstrip the actual capital returns, requiring a measured approach to investment in emerging technologies.

Proactive Risk Management

Given the volatile nature of the markets, risk management remains a top priority. While recent market conditions have been positive, downturns are inevitable. It’s natural for investors to feel uneasy during these times, but it’s important to remember that these fluctuations are part of the cycle.

At THG, we employ a proactive risk management strategy, focusing on building portfolios that can withstand market downturns. By carefully selecting quality assets and using active management techniques, we help minimise the impact of negative market movements on client portfolios. This approach ensures that when the market faces a correction, clients experience a less significant impact compared to the broader market.

Taking a Long-Term View

Despite the inevitable ups and downs of the market, our approach is always centred on the long-term. At THG, we prioritise sustainable growth by actively managing portfolios to minimise exposure to volatility while capitalising on market opportunities. This strategy helps ensure that, even in challenging times, our clients’ investments remain on track to achieve their long-term goals.

Looking Ahead: Stay Informed, Stay Prepared

As we move into the next 12 months, it’s essential to stay informed and prepared for the risks and rewards ahead. With a focus on strategic risk management, asset quality, and long-term growth, THG is committed to guiding clients through any uncertainties that may arise.

Contact us

If you have question about your investment portfolios, or if you’re concern about the status in currency, please contact your THG financial advisor or book a 15-minute free introductory meeting with one of them: https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/Gbb3a34b300e54bd69fcde3093183c30e@thehopkinsgroup.com.au/bookings/

We are thrilled to announce that THG’s managing director and authroised representative, Michael Williams has been appointed a judge for the the prestigious @ Excellence Awards! this year.

This is a huge accomplishment and a testament to our firm’s dedication to providing exceptional financial advice and service to our clients, and the prestige we hold as an industry leader within the financial advisory sector in Australia.

We’d like to extend our thank to @‌IFA for the opportunity to be involved in this inspiring process, and we feel privileged to help recognise other exceptional peers within the financial industry.

The awards ceremony will take place on 5 December at the Fullerton Hotel in Sydney – a night of celebration you won’t want to miss! Be sure to secure your tickets before they sell out!

About The Award

The awards are open to all businesses operating in Australia supporting the industry, from the profession’s most senior ranks through to its rising stars, and from start-ups to established to transformed businesses.

The most anticipated awards program of the year, the ifa Excellence Awards identifies the top businesses and professionals in the financial services industry across the nation.

Winning an ifa Excellence Award is a prestigious accolade; an recognition at a national level and build a reputation for excellence.

To learn more about the IFA Excellence Award and why they represents, please click the following link:

About the awards

To participate the event, you can secure your ticket via the link below:

Home

We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating the outstanding talents and professionals of our industry.

What is Centrelink Indexation?

Centrelink payments are adjusted regularly through a process called indexation. This ensures that your payments keep pace with the cost of living by aligning them with inflation rates. Typically, indexation occurs twice a year—on 1 March and 1 September—based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and other economic factors.

Payments affected by indexation include:

• JobSeeker Payment
• Disability Support Pension
• Parenting Payment
• Youth Allowance
• Age Pension

Indexation helps maintain the purchasing power of these payments, ensuring financial support remains relevant to the current economic climate.

Why You Should Update Your Circumstances

Even with regular indexation, updating your personal details with Centrelink is crucial to ensure you’re receiving the correct amount of support. Changes in your circumstances—such as income, living arrangements, or family situation—can directly affect your payments.

1. Changes in Income

If your income increases or decreases, it may affect the level of assistance you’re entitled to. Failing to report income changes could lead to overpayment (which you’ll need to repay) or underpayment.

2. Living and Family Changes

Moving house, sharing accommodation, or changes in your relationship status can also impact your payments. Similarly, having a child or changes to dependents may result in higher entitlements.

3. Health and Disability Changes

If your health condition improves or worsens, updating Centrelink is essential, especially if you’re receiving a disability support payment. Any changes could lead to an increase (or decrease) in your support.

Why It Matters

Keeping Centrelink informed about changes to your circumstances could result in higher payments, ensuring you’re not underpaid or overpaid. Regular updates also prevent unexpected issues such as having to repay overpaid funds.

When to Expect Changes

Once you update your details, Centrelink typically reviews your situation and adjusts your payments accordingly. This can take a few weeks, but you should see any increases or adjustments soon after.

How to update your details:
To keep your information current, simply log in to MyGov or contact Centrelink directly. For assistance, you can also reach them through their official website here: Phone us – Accessing our services – Services Australia