Money: Faith & Finance

Key Takeaways: Yes, Capital Gains Tax has changed in Australia. Pete breaks down what they actually are, when they come into effect, and likely outcomes. This might be a helpful prompt to reconsider your own criteria for investment  Pete Burrows: "You want to get ahead, but ahead of who?" Got a question, comment or personal story to share? Send it through at hopepodcasts.com.au . Ben and Pete...

Key Takeaways: One in three Australian workers fear AI might replace them, while a similar proportion of businesses actively use AI technology. AI can perform mundane, repetitive tasks, allowing workers to focus on high-value, human-centric job aspects. The website "aicompass.com" can help individuals gauge their job's exposure to AI influence. Engaging with AI, even in small ways, can help worker...

Are retirement expectations in Australia keeping up with reality? Ben McEachen and Pete Burrows dig into the numbers — including why Australians now think they need $1.9 million to retire — and ask whether that figure is realistic for ordinary people. Pete shares what he genuinely sees with real clients, unpacks the ASFA super benchmark, and offers his three M's framework for building...

Key Takeaways: Australia experienced around $31.5 billion in gambling losses in 2022-2023, indicative of a growing nationwide concern and need for robust policy intervention. Pete Burrows emphasises the importance of understanding the opportunity cost associated with gambling, suggesting it can detrimentally affect essential household finances. The episode addresses how digital platforms have simp...

Key Takeaways: Income disparity should not define contribution value in household finances; consider all types of work and responsibilities. Establishing open, continuous financial dialogues between partners can prevent misunderstandings and foster unity. Approach household finances with a focus on cooperation and equality rather than dominance, regardless of income size. Differences in income lev...

Sara is a single mother residing in Sydney, Australia, who impressively manages the household dynamics of five children, aged 12 to 19. Additionally, Sara is a devoted foster carer, providing a nurturing environment not only for her children but also for those in need. Her life is a testament to community support, resourcefulness, and unyielding faith, offering her both challenges and a profound s...

Key Takeaways: Recent changes in Australia's federal budget could significantly affect wealth building, specifically through adjustments to capital gains tax and negative gearing. The government may aim to make property a less attractive investment over time to address broader housing affordability challenges. Small business owners and startups could be particularly impacted by these tax changes d...

About the Guest: Tim Costello is an Australian advocate known for campaigning against gambling harm. A former CEO of World Vision Australia and regular contributor to the Centre for Public Christianity, he now leads the Alliance for Gambling Reform, a leading national advocacy group working to reduce gambling-related harm. Costello has long been an outspoken critic of gambling practices and policy...

Key Takeaways: The Federal Budget 2026 primarily benefits workers and the lower middle class by targeting tax reforms over monetary handouts. Major tax reforms target capital gains and negative gearing, aiming to make housing more accessible and affordable. The budget reflects a shift towards providing benefits for earners as opposed to owners, potentially leading to long-term societal gains. Curr...

Anglicare's Rental Affordability Snapshot - National Report Anglicare's Rental Affordability Snapshot - NSW and ACT   About the Guest: Rob Stokes is the Group Executive of Housing at Anglicare Sydney. With a distinguished background as a former Member of Parliament in New South Wales, Rob has transitioned to focus on housing affordability and social welfare. At Anglicare, he oversees initiati...

Key Takeaways: Wisdom vs. Wealth : Wisdom can offer more sustainable benefits than wealth, providing a foundation for making sound financial decisions. The Biblical Perspective : Applying biblical principles, such as those found in the Book of Proverbs and the Book of James, can guide financial decision-making. Wisdom in the Workplace : The notion of "wisdom work," especially in the age of AI, emp...

Key Takeaways: Capital gains tax in Australia was established in 1985 to tax profits made from asset sales, excluding the primary residence. The current 50% discount on CGT, introduced by the Howard government in 1999, was intended to foster investment but has led to disproportionate effects on the housing market. There's ongoing speculation about potential changes to tax policy in the upcoming fe...

Rosie Kendall is the CEO of Hope Economy , formerly known as Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Australia. Originally from the UK, Rosie joined CAP Australia in 2013 after working with its parent organization in the UK. She has over 19 years of experience in financial services and community development, dedicating her career to helping churches support individuals facing financial distress. Under he...

Key Takeaways: Understanding Panic Buying: The episode unpacks panic buying behavior, analyzing its origins in consumer psychology and communal impacts. Psychological Profiles in Purchasing: Leveraging Canadian and Australian studies, Ben and Pete outline consumer types from egalitarians to agentic egoists. The Role of Governments: A thought-provoking discussion on when governmental intervention i...

Key Takeaways: Young adults should emphasise and make use of the time advantage in their 20s to build both financial literacy and savings through small, consistent steps. Building good financial habits involves setting processes that automatically allocate savings and expenses, reducing the temptation to overspend. Having a buffer in terms of savings is crucial to cover living expenses for at leas...

Is private health insurance actually worth it in Australia? Ben McEachen and Pete Burrows dig into one of the most common financial headaches Aussies face — weighing up the cost of private cover against what Medicare already provides. They break down the Medicare levy surcharge, what private policies often leave out, and how to figure out if going private makes financial sense for your stage...

About the Guest(s): Kat Halliday is a vital member of the Ethical Fashion team at Baptist World Aid, an organization dedicated to international aid and development with a strong focus on promoting ethical and sustainable fashion. Through her role, Kat spearheads efforts in creating the Ethical Fashion Guide, which engages with fashion brands to enhance transparency about their environmental and la...

Key Points: Budgeting Strategies : Break down your income using frameworks like the 50/30/20 rule to allocate money efficiently for bills, living expenses, and savings. Zero-Based Budgeting : Allocate every dollar of your income each month to optimise your financial planning and ensure all funds are accounted for. Automation and Consistency : Automate your savings and payments to maintain financia...

Key  Points: Loud Budgeting vs. Quiet Luxury : Discusses the origins and contrasts of 'loud budgeting' and 'quiet luxury,' and how these paradigms influence personal financial conversations and transparency. Cultural Resistance to Money Talk : Explores the traditional reluctance of Australians to discuss finances and how embracing open conversations can lead to healthier financial practices....

Key Points : Understanding product release cycles and market trends can help consumers save significantly on tech purchases. The concept of "planned obsolescence" impacts tech-related spending; consumers need to be aware of software updates and support timelines. Buying pre-owned or refurbished gadgets can be financially wise, provided the right questions are asked to ensure quality and usability....

Key Points: Generosity Redefined: Generosity transcends money; consider giving time, skills, and effort to make a genuine impact. Plan for Generosity: Reflect on free time and personal skills that can be offered to communities and causes, enhancing your giving strategy. Consistent Giving Matters: Even small, regular contributions can build significant support over time, creating a sustainable patt...

That 50 Free, Fun Ideas? Download it here! Key Points: Exploration of Cost-Free Activities : Discover how opting for free or low-cost activities can still deliver fun and satisfaction amidst budget constraints. Cultural Influences on Spending : Learn about the role cultural practices play in our spending habits and the overlooked opportunities for free social engagement. Community and Relationship...

Key Takeaways: Embrace intentional spending to achieve a meaningful and budget-conscious Christmas celebration, focusing on experiences rather than material gifts. Inflation and cost of living challenges require strategic financial planning to maintain the joy of the holiday season. Get creative with gift-giving by exploring second-hand markets, homemade items, or shared family activities to save...

Key Takeaways: Rental Market Dynamics : Prices in capital cities are excessively high, leading to rental stress among Australians; creative strategies are needed to navigate these challenges. Financial Strategies : Look at managing the remaining 70% of your budget after rent rather than focusing solely on the rental costs. Adapting to Change : Consider regional moves to more affordable areas, leve...

Have a 'rent crisis' suggestion to make? Send it through to us at this form here Key Takeaways: Rental stress is a critical issue in many Australian cities, with residents spending a significant portion of their income on housing. Suggestions to combat rental unaffordability include supporting the YIMBY movement , promoting zoning reforms, and increasing housing supply. Listener contributions ment...