Knowing your retirement choices

IF you have retired or are thinking about retiring, it’s time to stay informed about what is best for you and your nest egg.
With increasing uncertainty about government rules relating to superannuation, AIR believes it is important for all retires to be informed about the current political and financial situation.
Becoming a member of Noosa Branch of the Association of Independent Retirees (AIR) is one way of keeping up-to-date on the latest developments in the retirement sector as AIR is the peak body representing the views of all self-funded retirees to government at all levels, while remaining non-political.
As well as providing a united voice, AIR also holds regular retirement planning seminars with the latest held on Saturday 2 May with keynote speaker Noel Whittaker encouraging retirees to “maintain a strong voice”.
Mr Whittaker stressed the importance for all retirees to have financial knowledge whether their money is in a Self-Managed Super Fund or in a commercial fund.
Both members of a couple need to understand how their retirement is financed or where to get expert help.
Whether retirees are a couple or single it is vital to have the correct legal documents (will, power of attorney, health directives) in order and that these are easily accessible when needed.
AIR Noosa president Bernie Treston said that as baby boomers approached their retirement they were faced with some of the most important financial decisions of their life.
“A wrong decision could lead to a retiree paying tax they could otherwise avoid or not being aware that they are eligible for a part pension,” he said.
“Such mistakes can have a catastrophic effect on their long-term retirement finances.”
The other specialist speakers were Greg Barrie from Centrelink, who outlined what the government offers retirees. The final speaker, Rob McGregor from Holman McGregor Financial Services, spoke about how to deal with a professional, independent financial planner. He stressed the importance of seeking advice or information even if your money is in a commercial super fund.
AIR has over 7000 members in 60 branches across Australia. The Noosa branch has served the local community for 22 years and is one of the largest branches in Queensland with over 250 members.
The group’s next general meeting will be at the South Pacific Resort, 179 Weyba Road, Noosaville, at 9.45am for a 10am start, on Thursday 14 May. Visitors are very welcome to come and see us in action.
Email airnoosacommunications@gmail.com or phone 0488 252 543 for details.