About Intellichoice  ( 13 items )

       About Financial Planning  ( 7 items )

       About Superannuation  ( 25 items )

       About Investing  ( 11 items )

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About Intellichoice

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Are there any additional costs involved or ongoing fees

Updated: 12.04.10

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No. The fee payable to Intellichoice Financial Planning is included in the original quote provided to you. There will be additional fees payable should you wish to use our financial services for other services not included in the original quote, for example, another loan for investmentpurposes.

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Can I have a written statement of advice

Updated: 12.04.10

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Your financial planner should provide you with a written financial planor Statement of Advice (SoA) whenever giving personal financial advice. This written financial plan should set out the basis for the financial advice and the reasons for the particular recommendations.

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How can a financial planner help me

Updated: 12.04.10

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A Financial planner will be able to assist you in all matters financial. There are many benefits to getting professional financial advice from a financial planner including:

• Provides you with direction on how to achieve your financial goals

• Helps you to understand how each decision you make affects other areas of your finances. For example, buying a particular investmentproduct might help pay off your mortgage faster or provide you with an income

• Making the most of your superannuation

• Maximising your income in retirement

• Investmentgearing strategies and risk protection

• Most importantly, a financial planner has the skills and training to guide you in the right direction

Speak to an Intellichoice financial planner today on 1300 55 10 45 and let us help you achieve your financial goals and grow your wealth in a safe way.

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How does Intellichoice charge me for the financial service I use

Updated: 01.06.10

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Intellichoice Financial Planning will charge the client a mandate fee, based on the complexity of the financial servicerequired. These fees will be quoted to the client.

Your financial planner will be able to provide you with more details during the initial interview. Please call 1300 55 10 45 now to request an obligation free appointment with our financial planner.

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I am not in a position to do anything is there any point in talking to a financial planner now

Updated: 02.02.10

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Many of our clients often feel this way, but as professionals, we can often help you find ways to improve your personal circumstances, or provide you with some insights and tips on achieving your financial goals. Even if you are not in a position to invest, we still recommend that you meet with one of our financial planners so you have a better understanding of your options.

Call 1300 55 10 45 for an obligation free appointment with one of our financial planners now and how we can help you achieve your financial dreams.

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What are the advantages of using Intellichoice as opposed to doing it myself

Updated: 01.06.10

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You will be working with financial experts who practice what they preach. Our financial plannershave over 30 years experience in the banking and finance industry and are fully qualified and accredited in their areas of expertise. Just as you would visit a Doctor, Dentist or Mechanic to do regular 'health checks,' the same should also apply to your finances.

There are many advantages to using Intellichoice financial planners including:

• Our financial planners takes the time to educate and provide a clear direction for you to move towards, in a hassle-free and jargon-removed manner

• We pride ourselves in providing personalised and exceptional quality service starting from the initial interview and beyond the final approval of the application

• We ensure that your needs are addressed and most importantly, you are fully informed every step of the way

• Our financial planners will keep you informed with the current trends in the financial industry

• New products are continuously being released; we provide the opportunity for you to learn about these to make an informed selection

Please call 1300 55 10 45 and speak to one of our financial planners now to find out more about our financial servicesand how we can help you grow your wealth.

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What do I need to prepare when meeting a financial planner

Updated: 12.04.10

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The Initial Consultation

The personal financial planningprocess is one that begins with defining your needs, objectives and your current situation. Once these are established, your financial planner is able to devise a plan to meet your financial goals.

A financial planner will typically tell you what you need to bring with you to your first meeting. You will also need to fill in a fact finding questionnaire about your current situation and personal details before this meeting takes place.

Pre-meeting Preparation

To assist you in preparing for your first visit to a financial planner, you will need to have the following details on hand:

• Income – your salary details, as well as any dividends or interest

• Expenses – consider annual payments like insurance, groceries, rent, electricity, gas, water, rates etc

• Assets – existing investments, including property, vehicles and shares

• Liabilities – details of outgoings other, including principal residence mortgage and other property mortgages, motor vehicle debt, investment loans, credit card debt and personal loans

A document checklist will be provided to you by an Intellichoice financial planner, so that you are clear on what you need to bring with you to the meeting. Even though you will not require copies of the documentation that details this information (eg. mortgage documents or title deeds), you will still need to provide an indication of the current value of all your assets.

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What financial services do you offer

Updated: 15.03.10

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Intellichoice Financial Planning offers the following financial services:

• Cash flow management and budgetingadvice

• Financial Planning

• Investment planning advice

• Tax effective investment planning

• Savings and wealth creationstrategies

• Retirement planningadvice

• Risk management and insuranceadvice

• Estate planningadvice

• Debt management, budgeting, savings plans and debt consolidation loans

• Insurancefor you, your loved ones and your assets

• Superannuation, self managed super funds, salary packagingand salary sacrifice

Please be assured that our experienced financial planners will only recommend an investment to you after considering its suitability for your individual investment objectives, financial situation and needs. Call 1300 55 10 45 and let one of our financial planners help you achieve your financial goals.

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What information do you maintain on my file and can I examine my file

Updated: 12.04.10

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Intellichoice Financial Planning maintains a record of your personal profile which includes details of your investment objectives, financial situation and needs. We also maintain records of any recommendations made to you.

We are committed to implementing and promoting a Privacy Policy, which will ensure the privacy and security of your personal information.

If you wish to examine your file please ask one of our financial planners by calling 1300 55 10 45. We will be happy to make arrangements for you to do so.

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What should I do if I have a complaint

Updated: 02.02.10

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If you have any complaint about the financial service provided to you, please take the following steps:

1. Contact your financial planner and tell your financial planner about your complaint

2. If your complaint is not satisfactorily resolved within seven business days, please lodge your complaint in writing addressed to:

The Complaints Manager
Intellichoice Financial Planning
PO Box 232 Wilston QLD 4051

We will endeavour to resolve your complaint quickly and fairly.

3. If the complaint cannot be resolved to your satisfaction within 45 days of your complaint, you have the right to refer the matter to the relevant complaints body. They can be contacted as follows:

All financial products (excluding General Insurance)

Financial Industry Complaints Service
PO Box 579
Collins Street West
Melbourne, Victoria 8007
Telephone: 1300 780 808

Please download a FICS Complaint Form from www.fics.asn.au and complete it according to the instructions and the information outlined in the document Important Information About Lodging a Complaint.

General Insurance Only

Insurance Ombudsman Service Ltd.
PO Box 561
Collins Street West
Melbourne, Victoria 8007
Telephone: 1300 780 808

4. The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) also has a freecall Infoline on 1300 300 630.

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Who is my financial planner

Updated: 01.06.10

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Your financial planner is:

• An Authorised Representative who holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL)

• Accredited with two of the largest licensees in Australia, which regulate ethical and professional codes of conduct in the finance industry

• Trained to offer you a wide range of financial services and products

• Kept up-to-date through continuing professional development days and ongoing training videos and workbooks

• Able to access both internal and external research and technical resources.

If you would like more information about our financial planners, our financial servicesand how we can help you achieve your financial dreams, call 1300 55 10 45.

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Why should I use Intellichoice

Updated: 12.04.10

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Intellichoice Financial Planning provides a range of financial services, including financial plans, investments, superannuation, salary sacrifice, salary packaging, retirement planning, debt managementand more. We aim to make a difference in the lives of everyday individuals by providing an opportunity for everyone to participate in building their wealth through home ownership and other investments. 

The financial planners at Intellichoice have over 30 years experience in providing exceptional and professional quality customer service. We take the time to educate and provide a clear direction for the client to move towards, in a hassle-free and jargon-removed manner. Intellichoice ensures that the needs of the client are addressed and most importantly, clients are fully informed, every step of the way.

If you would like more information about Intellichoice and the financial serviceswe offer, please call 1300 55 10 45 now and let us help you get back on track to achieving your financial dreams.

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will you give me financial advice suitable to my investment needs and financial circumstances

Updated: 12.04.10

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Yes! But to do so, our financial planners will first need to find out your individual investment objectives, financial situation and needs before recommending any investmentto you. You have the right not to divulge this information to us if you do not wish to do so. However, if you do not, we wish to stress that the financial advice you receive may not be appropriate to your needs, objectives and financial situation.

To find out how one of our financial planners can help you have a financially secure future, call 1300 55 10 45 now.

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About Financial Planning

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I am going to take a full pension do I still need to see a financial planner

Updated: 12.04.10

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A pension can form an invaluable foundation to your retirement income. However, financial planning looks at more than just your superannuationentitlements. A financial planner will look at your partner's situation, your other resources and assets, your future work plans, your retirement plans and whether all these combined will enable you lead a comfortable lifestyle.

Together you and your financial planner will develop a strategy that will manage your retirement lifestyle.

To find out more about how our financial planner can help you in your retirement, call 1300 55 10 45 today.

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My pension will exceed my income requirement is there any reason to see a financial planner

Updated: 12.04.10

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A financial planner will review your total situation, including of course your need for income in retirement. For most people, however, decisions also have to be made about other money, such as unused leave payments and savings. Taxation and social security rules may also affect your retirementstrategy.

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What are some effective strategies to reduce debt

Updated: 12.04.10

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The first step is usually to identify the two types of debt you have – Good and Bad or Inefficient and Efficient Debt.

Basically, efficient debt is used to acquire assets that generate assessable income and will grow in value, the interest is tax deductible and income generated by the asset is used to offset the debt.

Consolidating debtis usually the best way to reduce the interest payable, or pay off your inefficient debt sooner. Keeping it simple is the key! Set yourself a budget, stick to it and harness your cashflow to reduce your 'bad' debt as soon as possible.

For more information on how to manage debt, please speak with one of our financial planners on 1300 55 10 45.

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What is financial planning

Updated: 12.04.10

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Financial planningis the process of meeting your life goals through the proper management of your finances, for example, buying a home, managing debt, planning for retirementor having an insurance planin place to look after your family in the event of your death.

For more information about financial planningand how it can be used to grow your wealth or help you to meet your short, medium and long-term goals, speak to our financial planners on 1300 55 10 45.

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When should I see a financial planner

Updated: 12.04.10

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You should consider meeting with a Financial Planner at major events that occur in life which may result in a review of your financial or personal situation. For example:

• When you have just paid off your home

• When you have equity in your property to invest

• When you have a job change or receive a redundancy payment

• When you are pending retirement

• When you have just retired

• If you are looking to increase your investmentportfolio

• If you are starting or running a business

Our financial planners will be able to work with you your financial goals and achieving them in light of your current situation. Call 1300 55 10 45 now and let us help you achieve your financial goals.

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Why do i need to see a financial planner

Updated: 12.04.10

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Constant changes in superannuation, taxation and social security legislation means that even simple decisions can have unforeseen consequences over the long term and ultimately on your retirement. A financial planner can help you plan for your future and to avoid some of the pitfalls and traps along the way. For example, your financial planner can assist you with salary sacrificing, salary packaging, reducing tax, investments, wealth creation, generating retirement income streams, setting up a self managed super fundand putting insurance plansin place to protect you, your family and family home.

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Why should I take out insurance

Updated: 12.04.10

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Intellichoice Financial Planning offers a wide range of insuranceoptions designed to help protect you and your family in the event that you have a serious injury or illness and will not be able to work. If you died, your partner and family could be faced with the burden of making home/personal loan repayments.

You can be assured that Intellichoice has the appropriate insurance plan, to offer you peace of mind should the unexpected happen, ranging from life insurance to car insurance:

• Life Insurance
• Trauma Insurance
• Total and Permanent Disability
• Income Protection
• Business Insurance
• Travel insurance
• Car, boat and caravan
• Home and Contents insurance

Call 1300 55 10 45 to speak to one of our financial planners about an appropriate insurance planthat suits your needs and circumstances.

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About Superannuation

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Am I eligible for a super co contribution

Updated: 12.04.10

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From 1 July 2007, both employees and self-employed people may be eligible for a superco-contribution. If you can answer YES to all of these questions, in relation to a financial year, then you will be entitled to a super co-contribution from the Government.

• Have you made, or are you prepared to make, personal (after tax) contributions to your super for which you will not claim a tax deduction?¹

• Do you earn² less than $58,980 a year before tax (individual income, not household)?

• Do you earn more than 10% of your total income as an employee³ or from carrying on a business?

• Are you under 71 years of age?

• Have you or will you lodge an income tax return?

• Are you a permanent resident, or citizen of Australia?⁴

NOTES

1 Contributions made by your spouse and employer do not count.
2 Assessable income and reportable fringe benefits less business deductions (except for super contributions or work-related expenses)
3 Eligible employment includes any arrangement where an employer is required to treat you as an employee for the superannuation guarantee rules (which entitles you to 9% super contributions). Excludes fully retired people.
4 You cannot hold an eligible temporary resident visa.

To find out more about superand whether you are eligible for the super co-contribution from Government, speak to a financial planner from Intellichoice today on 1300 55 10 45.

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Are there any tax benefits to spouse contributions

Updated: 12.04.10

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Yes. If your spouse earns an income of less than $10,800 per annum, the first $3,000 of any spouse contribution entitles you to an 18% tax offset. Even if your spouse earns up to $13,800, you may still get a tax offset.

Please speak with one of our qualified financial planners on 1300 55 10 45 and they will be able to provide you with more information about super.

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Can my employer tell me which super fund I should choose

Updated: 12.04.10

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No, unless your employer is licensed to give financial advice. It is against the law for a person or company to give personal financial advice if they do not hold an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) or are an authorised representative of one. Only the holder of an AFSL has the training, skills and experience to consider your personal situation and recommend a superannuation fundthat is best suited to meet your needs.

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How can I check if I have any lost super

Updated: 12.04.10

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To see whether you have any unclaimed superyou can access the Australian Taxation Office website and use the free SuperSeeker tool. The website address is www.ato.gov.au/super. You can then consider whether you should consolidate it into one super account. Alternatively, an Intellichoice financial planner can assist to find your lost super for you. Call 1300 55 10 45 today and let our financial planner do the legwork for you.

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How do I choose a super fund

Updated: 12.04.10

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Prior to making a new super fundchoice, you should gather information about the superannuationoptions that are available to you. It is essential you compare the features and benefits of each super fund, including investment choice, performance and fees is vital.

If you are thinking about moving super funds, you should consider the impact on the level and cost of insurance cover, as well as the amount of health evidence you may need to provide to obtain insurance cover through another superannuation arrangement. The financial planners at Intellichoice can assist you with this.

If you cease to be a member of your employer super plan, your cover will cease (unless you have the option of moving to the personal division of your super fund, where the same or similar coverage can often be maintained). To establish cover within an entirely new super fund, you should be aware that you may be required to go through an application process to obtain the same level of cover. This may involve providing health evidence prior to cover being issued. If you have a health condition that you are not aware of, you could be ineligible for insurance cover or may have to pay an increased premium.

Your employer must contribute any Superannuation Guarantee benefit that becomes payable to your chosen super fund after two months from when you provide them notice of your chosen super fund. Your employer may choose to contribute to your chosen super fund before the expiration of this two month period.

For more information about making an informed superannuationfund choice, please contact the financial planners at Intellichoice on 1300 55 10 45 and we can assist you in finding a super fund that suits your needs. In addition, read the 'Super Choice' booklet available from www.superchoice.gov.au for more details.

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how do I choose my super fund

Updated: 12.04.10

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You can change your super fundin two ways:

1. By completing a choice form given to you by your employer or

2. By providing written notice to your employer requesting that contributions are made to your chosen super fund.

In both cases you need to provide your employer with:

• Details of your chosen super fund – fund name, fund manager ABN, their telephone contact details and super product identification number (if available)

• Your account details - account name, and account or membership number if you have one

• A letter from the fund trustee confirming that it is a complying super fund

• If you are choosing a self managed super fund(SMSF), written evidence from the ATO that the fund is regulated

• Written evidence from the super fund that it will accept your employer's contributions

• Details from the super fund about how contributions can be made (ie payment methods)

Your employer will then process the information provided and has two months to start making contributions to your chosen super fund.

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How do you classify it as a self managed super fund

Updated: 12.04.10

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A super fund is a self managed super fundif:

• It has a trust deed that meets the requirements of the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (SIS Act)

• It has four or less members

• Each member of the fund is a trustee

• No member of the fund is an employee of another member of the fund, unless they are related

• No trustee of the fund receives any remuneration for their service as trustee

For more information about SMSF and whether this is the best option for you, speak to one of our financial planners today on 1300 55 10 45.

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How much super will I need for retirement

Updated: 12.04.10

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You need to consider the age you want to retire, the income you would like in retirementand how long you might need that income to last. However, how much superyou require in retirement will depend on your chosen lifestyle. Obviously, if you have grand plans you will need to save substantially more than if you plan to live modestly.

According to the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia Limited (ASFA)'s research, to have a 'comfortable' retirement lifestyle requires approximately $36,000 for a single person and $48,000 for a couple. A 'comfortable' budget allows you to maintain more aspects of your lifestyle that you currently enjoy. This could include up to 10 domestic trips each year and one overseas trip every five years. A comfortable budget could also allow you to purchase items such as a computer, mobile phone and entertainment system and eat out up to three times a week.

Please do not hesitate to contact Intellichoice on 1300 55 10 45 and one of our financial planners will be able to provide you with more details on planning for retirementand how much money you will need in order to live 'comfortably.'

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I want to find out more about salary sacrifice Should I see a financial planner

Updated: 12.04.10

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It may be necessary to speak to a financial planner however there are a number of avenues you should explore first. Initially, discuss your situation with your Human Resources area. Many departments have a remuneration consultant that they can suggest you contact. Then, if you are considering salary sacrificeinto superannuation, speak to our financial planner on 1300 55 10 45 to get more details on the various options available.

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Is a smsf suitable for me

Updated: 12.04.10

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There are certain regulatory responsibilities placed on the trustees for a self managed super fund(SMSF). When setting up your super fund, it is important to consider the various issues including:

• Will I have the time to manage and administer the SMSF?

• Will there be sufficient funds in the SMSF to make the administrative costs worthwhile?

• Will the other trustees of the fund be suitable co-investors?

For more information about self managed super fundsand whether this is the best option for you, speak to a financial planner at Intellichoice on 1300 55 10 45.

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Should I get insurance within the super fund

Updated: 12.04.10

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Many superannuationfunds offer insurance, for example, death, disability and income protection insurance. Obtaining insurance in this manner may also carry tax advantages, as insurance premiums deducted from your super account can be paid with pre-tax dollars via salary sacrifice contributions.

Please speak with your super fundor a financial planner from Intellichoice on 1300 55 10 45 for more information and which option suits your specific needs.

916

Should I look for a super fund that includes life insurance

Updated: 12.04.10

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Whether you need life insurance or not is a question you should discuss with your financial planner. However, if you do need life insurance, accessing it through your superannuation fundshould definitely be considered as it is quite often cheaper and tax-effective.

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What are spouse contributions

Updated: 12.04.10

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A spouse contribution is money you contribute into superfor your spouse.

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What are the benefits of a self managed super fund

Updated: 12.04.10

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Benefits of operating a self managed super fund(SMSF) include:

• Control and flexibility: SMSF's provides you with the opportunity to make your own decisions on how your funds are invested and how the super fund is operated.

• Investment choice: your super fund can invest in a large range of investments, such as shares, bonds, residential property, commercial property, rural property, cashor any other assets you feel suits the investment objectives of the super fund and provided it meets the sole purpose test

• Taxation: tax concessions are available for SMSF's. Self managed super funds are a powerful wealth creation vehicle which enables Australians to maximise their income and lifestyle in retirement

• Protection: assets of an SMSF are protected from bankruptcy and other legal claims up to a certain threshold.

For more information about the benefits of a self managed super fund, speak to the financial planners at Intellichoice on 1300 55 10 45 and whether this is the best option for you.

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What are the responsibilities of establishing a self managed super fund

Updated: 12.04.10

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Some of the responsibilities of establishing and maintaining a self managed super fund(SMSF) include:

• Managing the investments prudently

• Ensuring (in conjunction with your administrator) that the fund complies with all the relevant laws at all times of the year

• Keeping your super fund's records, including bank accounts, separate to those for your other personal or business interests

• Ensuring your super fund's investments are held in the correct names

• Investing the fund assets in a way that meets your funds investment strategy, is prudent, and will provide for the members' retirement or death

For more details about self managed super fundsand whether this is the best option for you, speak to one of our financial planners today on 1300 55 10 45.

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What are the tax advantages of a SMSF

Updated: 12.04.10

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Some of the tax benefits of a self managed super fund(SMSF) include:

• Contributions made to the SMSF are taxed at 15%

• Maximum of 10% capital gains tax on the sale of any property purchased through a SMSF if it's held for at least 12 months and potentially nil if sold in pension phase

• Maximum of 15% tax on rental income

• You may receive a tax deduction (via salary sacrificing) for loan repayments of the principal - which you normally cannot do

• The interest costs are tax deductible and can potentially reduce the 15% contributions tax to nil

• If you are a small business owner, you may receive additional tax concessions and asset protection from creditors

• Unlike other property investments, as a business owner, you can 'sell' the business premises you own into your SMSF - and rent it back to your business

For more information about self managed super fundsand whether this is the best option for you, speak to one of the financial planners at Intellichoice today on 1300 55 10 45. Through Intellichoice Financial Services, we can also assist with a SMSF home loanif you are thinking of buying property through your self managed super fund.

944

What contributions does super choice cover

Updated: 12.04.10

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Super choice only applies to the compulsory superannuationyour employer is required to contribute for you. Generally, compulsory super is 9% of a person's salary. Some employers may choose to pay salary sacrifice or voluntary employer contributions to the fund you choose, while others may pay these 'non-compulsory' contributions to a default fund of their choosing.

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what investments can the smsf invest in

Updated: 12.04.10

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There are a wide range of investmentsthat a self managed super fund(SMSF) can invest in, including listed shares, cashand fixed interest securities, managed investments, private unit trusts, direct property(residential, commercial or rural), artwork and other collectable's. However, there are certain regulatory limitations placed on SMSF.

For example,

• A diy super fund cannot borrow money to invest in assets such as property or shares unless the funds are provided through an Instalment Warrant arrangement

• A super fund cannot acquire assets from related parties of the fund or invest in in-house assets; for example the fund could not purchase your assets (such as your house) from you.

• Other restrictions placed on the super fund include the inability to lend funds to members or their relatives or to provide the assets of the fund as security for personal borrowing.

As part of our financial planningservice, Intellichoice can provide you with access to a huge range of investmentsfor your SMSF. For more information about SMSFs and how we can help you with your investment strategy, speak to a financial planner on 1300 55 10 45.

973

What is a self managed super fund

Updated: 12.04.10

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A self managed super fund(SMSF) performs the same role as other super funds, by investing contributions and making them available to members on retirement. The key difference is that the members of self managed super funds are also the trustees, who therefore control where their contributions are invested and the payment of their benefits. A SMSF allows you to decide what you invest in and when your benefits are paid, as long as you comply with superannuation laws.

We recommend that you speak with a qualified financial planner on 1300 55 10 45 to work out whether setting up a self managed super fundis ideal for your situation.

982

What is choice of fund

Updated: 12.04.10

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On 1 July 2005, the Federal Government introduced the Superannuation Choice of Funds legislation, which allows eligible employees to choose an eligible superannuation fundinto which their employer Superannuation Guarantee (SG) contributions are paid.

Choice of Fund was introduced to provide employees with the freedom to select their own superannuation fund and encourage them to take control of, what for many will be, their biggest source of retirement savings.

Under Choice of Fund, you can do one of two things:

• Do nothing. This means you will remain in the super fund your employer has chosen for its employees (called the nominated default super fund).

• Choose an alternative super fund into which your employer will need to commence paying Superannuation Guarantee contributions. To make this choice, you will need to complete a 'Standard Choice form', which your employer will be able to provide.

The legislation only applies to those making or receiving Superannuation Guarantee contributions after 1 July 2005 and does not affect contributions paid before this time, existing super account balances or other super contributions. Choice of Fund applies to your ongoing Superannuation Guarantee payments, so please consult your existing super provider or a financial planner at Intellichoice on 1300 55 10 45 should you wish to roll over your existing super benefits into your chosen super fund.

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What is super choice

Updated: 01.06.10

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The Super choice legislation took effect from 1 July 2005 and allows you to select which super fundyou would like your compulsory super contributions paid into.

Please note that not all employees are able to choose their super fund of choice, although more employees are being included over time.

The laws governing choice of fund specifically exclude:

• Employees whose super is paid under a state award or industrial agreement

•Employees whose super is paid under a Federal workplace agreement (eg. a collective agreement or Australian Workplace Agreement)

•Certain Australian Government employees who are members of the CSS or PSS who have their contributions paid under the Superannuation (Productivity Benefit) Act 1988

•Employees covered by an employment agreement in force under the Victorian Employee Relations Act 1992

•Employees who are members of a defined benefit fund that is in surplus or who have accrued their maximum benefit

Even if you do not qualify for choice of fund under the new laws, your employment agreement, contract or award allows you to negotiate a choice with your employer. Contact your employer to find out if this applies to you.

If you are not sure if you qualify for choice of super fund, or if you need more information on eligibility, please speak with a financial plannerat Intellichoice on 1300 55 10 45. Alternatively speak with your employer or visit www.superchoice.gov.au for more information.

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What should I consider before making a choice about my super fund

Updated: 02.02.10

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Look at a range of super funds available to you. Consider the super fund's investment options, insurance offering, fee information, service offering, website and performance history – although you should bear in mind that past performance is no indication of future performance.

Check that you can get the insurance cover you need just as cost-effectively and easily in the new super fund. This is something you should look into carefully, as you may not be eligible for the same insurance benefit if you opt out of your current super fund, and then back into the same super fund later on.

Super choice is designed to let you select the super fund that best suits your individual situation and needs. We strongly suggest that you seek professional financial advice prior to making a super choice decision. You can speak to one of our financial planners first on 1300 55 10 45 for more information about the various super funds available.

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When can I access my superannuation benefit

Updated: 12.04.10

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Superannuation investors are encouraged to maintain a long term perspective and will not be able to access their superannuationuntil they have:

• Permanently retired from the workforce

• Reached the minimum age set by law, called your 'preservation age'. See the table below.

However, you may access your super once you reach the age of 65, regardless whether you have retired or not. A person may now retain their superannuation funds (in the accumulation phase) on an indefinite basis until death.

Please contact your super fund or one of the financial planners at Intellichoice for more information.

If you have not reached the minimum age set by law, you may get part of your super earlier only if the following occurs:

• if you suffer permanent incapacity for work; or

• in cases of severe financial hardship, (the Trustee must follow approved guidelines to determine severe financial hardship); or

• on 'compassionate grounds' (there are strict guidelines for release on compassionate grounds and both APRA and the Trustee must approve the release); or

• if you are an eligible temporary resident of Australia, who has the option of accessing their super benefits after permanently leaving Australia; or

• upon termination of gainful employment on or after 1 July 1997 where your preserved benefits at the time of the termination are less than $200.

Special access rules apply to any restricted and unrestricted non-preserved benefits you may have. Please speak with your super fundor speak to a financial planner at Intellichoice on 1300 55 10 45 for more information.

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Which super funds can I choose under Super Choice

Updated: 12.04.10

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You can choose any complying superannuationfund or retirement savings account. The only requirement is that it must be willing and able to accept contributions from your employer.

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Why would I want to contribute to my spouses super account

Updated: 12.04.10

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Sometimes, factors, such as interrupted work patterns and changes in occupation can make it difficult for one partner to accumulate enough superfor retirement. Also, if your spouse is not working, or is a low-income earner, as the contributing partner, you may be able to claim a tax rebate.

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About Investing

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Are shares or property a better form of investment

Updated: 15.03.10

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We believe that a mix of both investmentclasses can and will provide for a fulfilling retirement. Speak with a financial planner from Intellichoice for more details and they will be able to work with you a strategy for wealth management that suits your needs and goals. Call 1300 55 10 45 to find out how our financial planner can help you achieve your financial dreams.

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Historically what happens investment wise with residential real estate

Updated: 12.04.10

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It is the compounding effect of propertyvalue increases which is so powerful. As each year passes, growth occurs on top of growth. If a property is worth $100,000 today and next year it increases in value to $110,000, then the year after that if it increases at 10% again the value will be $121,000, that is $110,000 plus 10% (or $11,000) and on goes the escalation. Its exponential growth accelerating at a faster rate as each year passes.

With prudent property investment all that you need is the right information, time and patience. We strongly suggest that you speak with a financial planner from Intellichoice by calling 1300 55 10 45 and they will work with you on an investmentstrategy that meets your objectives, needs and current circumstances.

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I thought property investment was for high income earners or the wealthy

Updated: 12.04.10

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Statistically in Australia, over 70% of propertyinvestors are on incomes between $35,000 and $40,000 per annum. Over 90% of all millionaires become so through investment in real estate.

We strongly suggest that you speak with one of our experienced financial planners on 1300 55 10 45 and they will work with you on an investmentstrategy that suits your goals and financial circumstances.

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We were brought up to believe that we should not borrow money were mum and dad wrong

Updated: 12.04.10

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Yes and no! The golden rule of borrowing money is to borrow for appreciating assets such as property, not for consumables that depreciate in value. Our parents were right in deterring us from borrowing money for clothes, shoes etc, which over time can become worthless. However, when using debt for appreciating assets such as property, it is the most important tool to building wealth.

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What are warrants

Updated: 12.04.10

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A warrant is a financial instrument issued by banks and other institutions and is traded on the Australian Stock Exchange's equity market. Warrants may be issued over securities such as sharesin a company, a currency, an index or a commodity.

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What is a growth fund

Updated: 12.04.10

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An investmentportfolio typically comprising a portfolio of equities, fixed interest, property and cash but with more emphasis on equities and property. Designed to achieve an above average rate of income and capital growth over the mid to long term, whilst maintaining a medium risk profile.

Call 1300 55 10 45 to speak to one of our financial planners about growth fundsand whether this is the best option for you to grow your wealth.

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What is a term deposit

Updated: 02.02.10

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A deposit with a financial institution for a fixed period, with a fixed interest rate for the duration of the deposit.

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What is margin lending or gearing all about

Updated: 12.04.10

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Once your inefficient debt is under control, you can consider borrowing money to invest. This is the wealth creation strategy known as 'gearing' or margin lending.

You have the potential to magnify your investment value as you have more money invested than you would otherwise, and you can reduce taxable income by claiming the interest on the loan. However, there are some risks to also take into consideration. For example, margin lending magnifies the potential for both gains and losses and if the market declines, so does your portfolio. If this happens, you will need to inject more cash or buy more shares to raise the portfolio's value.

It is strongly recommended that you seek professional financial advice before borrowing to invest, to ensure that you understand the tax implications, as well as the legal and financial ramifications of margin lending. Speak to one of our financial planners at Intellichoice on 1300 55 10 45 to find out more about margin lendingand whether this is the best option for you.

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What is negative gearing

Updated: 12.04.10

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The purchase of an investmenteg. shares, managed investment, or property, where the interest on the loan exceeds the income received from the investment. The negative net income is then offset against income received from other sources for tax purposes.

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What is wealth creation

Updated: 12.04.10

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Wealth creationis an umbrella term used to mean the investment strategies you put in place to create a better financial situation for yourself in the future – these can include superannuation, investments, propertyownership and a raft of other ways to achieve your end goals, including making sure you have an appropriate level of insurance.

For example, salary sacrificeinto super is a very tax-efficient way to save. In some cases borrowing to invest can allow your interest to be tax-deductible, and there may be other efficiencies like paying interest in advance.

Call 1300 55 10 45 to speak to an Intellichoice financial planner and which is the most tax-efficient ways to save and invest.

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Why has my accountant not told me everything about investing in property

Updated: 01.06.10

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Accountants are usually specialists in their area of expertise – accounting. They will expertly complete the tax forms for you after you have provided them with all the figures, but they are usually not specialists in property investmentand should not be relied on as such. You should speak with a financial planner for more details on wealth managementby calling 1300 55 10 45.

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