However, there are ways to future-proof your finances by focusing on priorities at each life stage.

Early adulthood:

At this stage you want to make sure you are putting your income to good use.

Bad debt

The temptation to spend more than you earn is easy. Avoid a “quick fix” solution like getting a credit card that charges interest rates at around 20 per cent. Instead, do what the financially savvy do: budget. Set yourself a goal and contribute regular amounts each month. It doesn’t have to be complicated, try an app like ASIC’s Money Smart app.

Repaying your home loan

If you have a home loan, concentrate on repaying it as quickly as possible. Paying an extra $100 per month could shave three years off the loan and save thousands in interest costs.  

Invest in equities 

With returns on term deposits hovering around 2 per cent it could be worth considering a direct investment in blue chip shares, or through a low cost investment vehicle like an exchange-traded fund (ETF) or listed investment company (LIC). Realise the power of compounding returns by investing early and holding assets for the medium to long term.

Superannuation

It’s difficult to get excited about superannuation at this early age. However, small steps now will make a significant difference in the future:

·         Consolidate your accounts: to avoid paying fees on multiple accounts

·         Check your investment option: Most funds will put you into a default investment option, which is usually balanced with an even mix of growth and defensive assets. Considering your long-term investment outlook, look at a growth orientated option

Insurance

This is the best time to apply for insurance to ensure you’re protected in the event of illness, injury or death: you’re generally healthier and the cover is cheaper.

It’s important to have enough insurance cover to repay your debts but it is even more important to have enough cover to financially protect your greatest asset – your ability to generate income. Income protection insurance is often tax deductible and provides an ongoing income stream in the event you are unable to work for medical reasons.

Middle age:

You’re generally at peak earning capacity here, so make hay while the sun shines! If you have a mortgage, a plan to pay it down is the key priority.

With spare income, you may consider:

Wealth accumulation

If you have increased equity in the home, consider drawing on it for wealth creation. If you are confident the return will be greater than the interest rate on the loan you could consider an investment property or shares.

Private school fees

If you have children and plan to send them to a private school, then saving for it while they’re young should be a priority. Given the long investment timeframe, it may be appropriate to invest regular savings in growth assets like blue-chip shares.

Superannuation

Salary sacrificing can be a powerful way to boost your super balance. The tax rate on super is 15 per cent, compared to your marginal tax rate which could be up to 47 per cent.

If your super balance has more than $250,000, a self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) may be appropriate. An SMSF can provide an unprecedented level of control and flexibility over your asset base, enabling you to develop an investment strategy tailored to your individual situation.

Approaching retirement: 

Congratulations! You’ve almost made it to the point where you can enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle, but don't take your foot off the pedal just yet.

Reassess your asset base – especially the family home

While your home has provided you with many years of enjoyment it is also worth considering if its value can boost your nest egg. Downsizing can provide you with a more suitably-sized home and release a substantial amount of equity from the family home, to be directed to your nest egg.

Superannuation

Your priority here is ensuring your super balance will provide you with a steady and reliable income stream throughout retirement. Reduce volatility to aid smoother returns.

You may also consider a transition to retirement (TTR) strategy. This enables you to access your super before retirement and provides an additional income stream should you choose to scale back your participation in the workforce.

Estate Planning

Review your Will to ensure your affairs are in order, and appoint a trusted individual to act as your Power of Attorney (PoA) in the event you lose capacity to make financial or medical decisions yourself.

What should you do now?

Working with a financial adviser will set you up to maximise your financial position throughout the various life stages.

Simon Curtain is a private client adviser and director with independent wealth management firm, Hewison Private Wealth.