Financial Planning

Financial independence is often portrayed as a finish line — a moment when you no longer need to work, worry, or compromise. But in reality, it’s not a single destination. It’s a series of intentional steps that build confidence, security, and choice over time. For women navigating career transitions, caregiving roles, or midlife planning, financial independence is not just possible — it’s strategic.

With the end of the year just two months away, the holiday season is fast approaching — bringing joy, connection, and often, financial pressure. Australians are expected to spend nearly $800 each on gifts, travel, and celebrations this Christmas. Yet ASIC’s Moneysmart research shows that while most people set a budget, nearly half regret their spending afterwards. At Prosper Financial Planning, we believe generosity should never come at the cost of financial stress.

Economic abuse is a form of control that strips away a person’s financial autonomy, often quietly and insidiously. It can involve restricting access to money, sabotaging employment, or coercing financial decisions — and it disproportionately affects women. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2.3% of women have experienced economic abuse in the past 12 months, with many more facing long-term financial consequences.

As the financial year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to pause and take stock of your financial wellbeing. Whether you're building wealth, managing family finances, or preparing for retirement, a midyear financial health check helps you stay aligned with your goals and adapt to changing conditions. This year’s review is especially important, with updates to superannuation rules, insurance trends, and cost-of-living pressures shaping the financial landscape for women a

For many women, especially those in midlife or navigating motherhood, the decision to return to work after having children is layered with financial, emotional, and career considerations. With paid childcare use rising and new superannuation reforms now supporting parental leave, it’s time to reframe the conversation: how can women balance the cost of childcare with long-term career growth and financial wellbeing?

Housing is more than bricks and mortar — it’s about safety, stability, and dignity. Yet for many women, especially those in midlife, the path to secure housing is riddled with financial stress, rising costs, and systemic barriers. Whether you’re renting, owning, or somewhere in between, this guide offers practical strategies to help you navigate housing decisions with confidence.

Midlife is a powerful turning point. You’ve built experience, resilience, and wisdom — and now is the time to make sure your money reflects that. Whether you're juggling career, caregiving, or planning for retirement, your financial decisions in your 40s and early 50s can shape the next 30 years.

For many women, motherhood brings profound joy — and complex financial decisions. Whether you're preparing for parental leave, stepping back from full-time work, or considering a longer career break, it's natural to worry about the impact on your financial future. Will your superannuation suffer? Can you stay on track with your goals? How do you protect your long-term security while prioritising your family?

Divorce or separation can feel like a seismic shift — emotionally, socially, and financially. For many women, especially those who’ve stepped back from paid work to raise children or support a partner’s career, the end of a relationship marks not just the loss of a shared life, but the beginning of a daunting financial journey. But here’s the truth: your financial voice is still yours. And it’s time to reclaim it.

Superannuation is designed to support you in retirement—but life doesn’t always wait. For women facing financial hardship or serious medical conditions, early access to super may feel like the only option. While it’s possible under strict conditions, it’s important to understand the rules, risks, and alternatives before making a decision.

Raising children in Australia has never been more financially demanding. From childcare and education to extracurriculars and everyday expenses, the cost of parenting continues to climb. Yet, despite these pressures, many Australian families are taking proactive steps to secure their children’s financial future. According to the Finder Parenting Report 2023, 57% of Australian parents have opened savings accounts for their children under age 12 (Godfrey 2023).

Motherhood is a beautiful, life-altering journey. It’s filled with love, sacrifice, and growth. But there’s one cost that often goes unnoticed—until it’s too late. It’s not the sleepless nights or the endless laundry. It’s the financial toll on your superannuation. In Australia, the average woman can lose over $47,000 in retirement savings simply because she became a mother. That’s not just a number—it’s a wake-up call.