Q&A: When to increase super contributions, offset or redraw, super or property and more…

In this Q&A podcast episode, Stuart tackles timely questions on super contributions, property strategy, and how to structure wealth to optimise flexibility, returns, and tax outcomes—particularly as retirement nears.

Jack opened the episode with a practical question about offset accounts versus redraw facilities. As he approaches retirement, he's focused on maximising flexibility and wanted clarification on how each structure works, especially with salary deposits, credit card repayments, and long-term access to funds.

George, aged 58, sought guidance on how to best deploy $260,000 in spare cash after selling a Queensland investment property. Stuart explores the pros and cons of contributing to super (both concessional and non-concessional), buying property (including the impact of Melbourne’s land tax), or investing in ETFs—especially during periods of market volatility. George’s goal is to retire at 62, and Stuart offers a strategy that balances growth potential with tax efficiency.

Shan and his wife, both in their mid-30s, wanted to understand when it makes sense to increase super contributions, given they already have a mortgage-free home and neutral investment properties. Stuart outlines the questions young families should ask when weighing super versus other wealth-building paths during their peak earning years.

Pat, 32 and a company director asked when a family trust becomes more beneficial than investing personally. With a growing share portfolio, he wanted clarity on the cost-benefit tipping point for using a trust structure—especially in a down market where transferring assets might carry lower CGT.

Finally, Vanessa explored whether to use inherited funds to purchase a property within super or invest in ETFs now and contribute later. Stuart shares general insights on liquidity, long-term growth, and the trade-offs between inside and outside super environments.

If you’re weighing super, property, ETFs or trust structures—or trying to figure out when to dial up your retirement strategy—this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Read Stuart's latest book? He's only got 19 reviews on Amazon so far, if Wealth by Design helped you, leaving one would mean a lot: https://www.amazon.com.au/review/create-review?asin=192318654X

Run your own business? 

Check out Business by Design, Stuart and Mena's show on starting, growing and exiting a business, at https://www.businessbydesignpodcast.com/

Our most popular free guides:

Over the years we've written hundreds of articles. These three bring our best thinking together on the topics that matter most right now: choosing a super fund, debt recycling, and navigating the new tax changes.

Download them here

Got a question for the podcast?

Email us at [email protected]

Subscribe to my weekly blog:

Stay connected here

Important

This podcast provides general information about finance, tax and credit. It doesn't take into account your specific objectives, financial situation or needs, so you need to assess whether it's relevant to your circumstances before acting on it. If you're not sure, speak to a licensed, trustworthy professional.