Overview: In an address to the SMSF Association Conference on the Gold Coast yesterday, senator Hume said there had been a bit of heated discussion about the account balance that is required to make an SMSF a cost-efficient option.

Overview: "Important factors are now falling into place for the Australian housing market to rise this 2020. Brisbane may fulfil predictions as a top performer for the year."

Overview: "Our great city of Brisbane finally delivers on growth predictions from previous years. House affordability, rapid population growth, and other factors highlighted below, should all support an improvement in market conditions in the coming months."

The Financial Sector Reform (Hayne Royal Commission Response – Protecting Consumers [2019 Measures]) Bill 2019 was passed on Thursday, 6 February 2020.

Overview: Its a very exciting time for Australia as we get closer and closer to rolling out open banking. It is a very positive step forward for consumers in the country.

"Although you may be with a big super fund it is key to look at the information that APRA's My Super Product heatmap highlights. There is no place to hide for underperforming funds, with the Assistant Minister for Superannuation Jane Hume blatantly stating, "lift their game, or leave the field”."

"With the rest of the states suffering massive falls in housing starts, the latest data indicates that Queensland is bucking the trend. The ABS has highlighted a massive fall nationally equating to 11.7 per cent, with Australia's Sunshine State posting growth of 3 per cent in the September 2019 quarter."

Overview: The new year brings a perfect opportunity to create change. Have a look at these five pointers to get you started with caring for your finances.