Core Independent Financial Advice

15/06/2026

Starting a conversation with:

"What are your thoughts on the latest Federal Budget?" is rarely a usual dinner table talk. However, this year it is different.

The recent Federal Budget, handed down in May 2026, made headlines across the country. It was, and is, the talk of the town.

It's also become the most common topic in my client conversations lately, so I thought it was worth sharing a broader update.

Read about it here:

02/04/2026

Markets are falling, headlines are negative, petrol is soaring and your portfolio balance is shrinking. You might be wondering, would exiting the market and have cash be a better option right now?

Read more in my latest blog.

As usual, if you are unsure what to do, please get in touch and I will work with you on a tailored plan that aligns with your financial goals.

/Simon Duigan, Core IFA

Markets are falling, headlines are negative, petrol is soaring and your portfolio balance is shrinking. In times like these, I often hear the question: Should I move to cash and wait for things to settle? But that instinct, while understandable, can be a damaging decision for long-term investors. Th...

22/12/2025

-How did this year feel for you financially?
-Did you make progress toward your financial goals?
-Are you comfortable with your current financial plan and understand what may need adjustment?
-What would you like to focus on or improve next year?

It's that time of the year again when we look back and wonder, where did the year go?

As we approach the end of the year, I always encourage you to use the time to reflect on the year that has been.

A financial plan should never go stale, it is a strategy that must adapt to your life's changes. And life changes all the time.
An annual check-in is a wise investment in yourself.

Start 2026 right, I am here to help.

If you are unsure what to do, please get in touch and I will work with you to ensure your financial plan is set up right.

Until then, I wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

/Simon Duigan, Core IFA

01/12/2025

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The temptation to time the market is strong, but history shows it’s incredibly challenging, even for professionals. In this blog, I provide a case study to explain how easily this strategy can backfire.

Discover why market timing often fails and how disciplined asset allocation and rebalancing can build stronger long-term investment outcomes.

22/09/2025

In my latest blog I covered the topic of the recent super collapses and how to make sure your fund is safe and secure for your future retirement.

Here is another article from the ABC on the same topic.

If you are unsure what to do or think this might affect you, please get in touch and I will work with you and your unique circumstances.

/Simon Duigan, Core IFA

The failed First Guardian and Shield schemes have cost about 12,000 Australians more than $1 billion in retirement savings and exposed deep flaws in how Australia's $4.3 trillion superannuation sector is regulated.

18/09/2025

Could Your Super Fund Be at Risk of Collapsing?

In my recent blog, I break down what happened with First Guardian and Shield, the risks of poorly managed super funds, and the key steps you can take to ensure your superannuation is secure and working in your best interests.

As usual, if you are unsure what to do, please get in touch and I will work with you on a tailored plan that aligns with your financial goals.

/Simon Duigan, Core IFA

Learn from the First Guardian and Shield collapse why choosing a strong superannuation fund with governance, diversification & transparency protects your retirement.

28/05/2025

~Updated figures for 2025~

Since July 1, 2022, the work test for post-tax contributions after the age of 67 has been removed. This change opened up the possibility of using a re-contribution strategy for your super.

This might be a strategy that can come in handy this EOFY.

With this in mind, I have updated the FAQ blog with current figures relevant for 2025 to help you gain a better understanding of the strategy and how it may be used:

https://coreifa.com.au/what-is-a-super-re-contribution-strategy-and-who-needs-one/

*If you’re wondering what applies to your personal situation, I’m always happy to help with tailored advice.

/Simon, Core IFA

*Note: This article was updated May 2025 to reflect current figures. Below is a summary of a set of common frequently asked questions (FAQs) in relation to superannuation re-contribution. What is it? Superannuation re-contribution refers to withdrawing money from your superannuation account and cont...

10/04/2025

We can all agree it’s been a fast-moving start to the year, with plenty of changes across both our national and global economies.

Just look at this week alone!

It can make financial planning feel overwhelming.

As an independent financial advisor, I am here to help you find the path that best suits your circumstances.

In this blog I share my EOFY checklist and the key changes coming into effect as of 1 July 2025:

We can all agree that it has been an interesting start of the year with many changes and updates to stay across regarding our national and global economy. At times it can be hard to know what you should or should not do as we try to navigate the ever-changing…

21/12/2024

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Core Independent Financial Advice will be closed December 24-January 5.

Thank you to everyone I have worked with and supported this year.

It's been my pleasure helping you get on top of your future finances, so you can enjoy the things that make you happy today.

I wish you a very relaxing and enjoyable Christmas and best wishes for 2025.

/Simon, Core IFA

09/12/2024

As we approach the end of the year, it's the perfect time to reflect on your financial journey and look ahead to 2025.

Why not start 2025 on the right financial footing? Together, we can overcome procrastination, set clear goals, and take control of your finances. Whether it’s improving investments, planning for your future, or addressing financial concerns, small steps today can lead to big achievements tomorrow.

Start 2025 on the right financial footing. Discover how to overcome procrastination, set clear goals, and take control of your finances. Whether it’s improving investments, planning for your future, or addressing financial concerns, small steps today can lead to big achievements tomorrow. Let’s ...