Build Financial Strength in 2026
Another year has come to an end and how did it stack up for you? Did you achieve what you set out to do? And are you in a stronger financial position now than you were this time last year?
With a new year ahead, it’s a great opportunity to pause, reflect, and think about how you can make the most of the months to come.
We’ve created a practical guide to help you plan the year ahead, breaking it down into manageable quarters. By focusing on a few key actions each quarter, you can build financial momentum over time while still leaving room to enjoy life along the way.
January to March: Laying the Foundations for the Year Ahead
Start the year by turning your aspirations into clear, achievable goals. Some may be long-term, such as becoming debt-free, saving for a home deposit, or preparing for retirement over the coming years. Others might be shorter-term, like building an emergency buffer or paying down a specific loan. Consider what practical actions you can take this year that will move you closer to those broader objectives. Writing your goals down and giving each one a personal, motivating name can help keep them front of mind and easier to commit to.
While it’s important to plan for the future, it’s just as important to enjoy the present. Create a realistic, month-by-month budget that covers everyday essentials while also allowing room for the things you enjoy, such as holidays, eating out, family celebrations, and hobbies. A balanced budget is more likely to be sustainable and less likely to feel restrictive.
It’s also a good time to anticipate any potential financial pressure points throughout the year. For example, if your car, home, and life insurance premiums are due around the same time, you might consider switching to monthly payments or staggering renewal dates to smooth out cash flow and reduce stress during those periods.
This quarter is ideal for establishing strong budgeting and money-management habits. Regularly track your spending against your plan to see where you’re on track and where adjustments may be needed. As March approaches, take the time to review your progress, celebrate what’s working well, and refine anything that isn’t. Small, thoughtful changes early in the year can make a meaningful difference in keeping your finances and your goals on track.
April to June: End of Financial Year Planning
As the end of the financial year approaches, this is the ideal time to focus on finalising any outstanding financial tasks. If you’re considering making additional superannuation contributions ensure these are made before 30 June and remain within the relevant contribution caps. Acting early can help avoid last-minute issues and ensure contributions are received and allocated on time. Reviewing the contribution caps is important as these are updated regularly and may have recently changed.
It’s also worth reviewing whether you can bring forward any eligible tax-deductible expenses. Bringing forward deductions can help reduce your taxable income for the current financial year.
By the end of this quarter, take the time to review your tax records and financial information to make sure everything is accurate and up to date. This includes checking income details, expenses, and any investment or superannuation statements. A little preparation now can significantly reduce stress, avoid delays, and make the tax lodgment process far smoother when tax season arrives.
July to September: Mid-Year Review and Adjustment
With the financial year behind you, it’s time to focus on your tax return. If you’re expecting a refund, consider lodging your return early to get your money sooner. Before it arrives, think carefully about how you want to use it, will it go towards paying off debt, increasing your savings, investing in a home improvement, or perhaps treating yourself? Whatever you decide, ensure your choice supports your broader financial plan and aligns with your goals for the year ahead.
This quarter is also a perfect time for a financial spring-clean. Review your superannuation, savings accounts, insurance policies, and estate planning documents. Are your accounts and policies up to date? Are your documents stored safely and easily accessible? Ensuring everything is current and well-organised gives you confidence and peace of mind, and can make future planning much simpler.
Review your loans, credit cards, and any other debts. Are there opportunities to refinance, consolidate, or switch to lower interest rates? Even small adjustments can save money and improve cash flow over time. A thorough review of your finances can uncover overlooked opportunities, streamline your strategy, and help you start the new financial year with a clearer, stronger financial position.
Taking the time now to assess, organise, and optimise your finances can set the tone for the year ahead. By finishing the financial year with clarity and control, you position yourself to make smarter decisions, seize opportunities, and stay on track toward achieving your goals.
October to December: Reflecting, Adjusting, and Finishing Strong
As the year enters its final stretch, it’s a great time to evaluate how well you’ve followed your financial plan. Are you on track, or have unexpected events shifted your course? Life rarely goes exactly as planned, so if your original goals were too ambitious, don’t hesitate to adjust your expectations and strategy. Flexibility and adaptability are essential for long-term financial success.
With the holiday season approaching, it’s easy to fall into the trap of overspending. Plan ahead by setting a realistic budget for gifts, travel, and celebrations. Consider prioritising meaningful experiences or thoughtful gestures over extravagant purchases. Sticking to your budget now can help you enjoy the festivities without carrying financial stress into the new year.
Take a moment to reflect on the past 12 months. Celebrate your achievements, even the small wins, and identify areas where you can improve. What lessons have you learned? Where did your plan work well, and where could adjustments be made? Use these insights to refine your goals and update your financial plan for the coming year. By ending the year with reflection and clarity, you set yourself up to start the new year with confidence, focus, and a clear path toward your aspirations.
Consider also using this time to review all aspects of your finances from superannuation and savings to insurance coverage and investments ensuring everything remains aligned with your evolving goals. A thorough year-end review can uncover opportunities to optimise your financial position and start the new year with a stronger foundation.
Support
Your financial adviser can be a valuable partner throughout the year. We help break your bigger goals into clear, achievable steps and provide ongoing guidance to keep you focused and on track throughout the year.
If you’re ready to make this year your strongest yet, we’re here to help. Get in touch to start planning with confidence, with advice that is tailored to your individual goals, priorities, and aspirations.
Additional Tips For Financial Success
Emergency Savings
Building an emergency fund is an important step of financial security. The amount to save will be unique to each individual but as a good starting point, we generally aim for at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses. Start by setting aside a small amount each month and gradually increase it as your budget allows. Having a financial safety net can help you handle unexpected expenses without derailing your plans.
Automate Your Savings
Take the guesswork out of saving by setting up automated transfers. This approach ensures consistent progress towards your financial goals without requiring the constant effort.
Review your Subscriptions
Track all of your subscriptions for services like streaming platforms, gym memberships, and meal delivery plans. Are you using them enough to justify the cost? Cancel any that no longer add value to your life and redirect those funds to your goals.
Invest in Yourself
Consider allocating time and money to personal development. Whether it’s taking a course to advance your career, learning a new skill, or investing in your health through fitness programs, these actions can lead to long-term benefits that go beyond finances.
Stay Educated
The financial landscape is constantly evolving. Dedicate time to improving your financial literacy by reading books, attending workshops, or following trusted financial blogs and podcasts. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions.
Plan for the Unexpected
Life is full of surprises, so it’s important to plan for the unexpected. Review your insurance policies to ensure you have adequate coverage for health, life, and income protection. Having the right protection in place can provide peace of mind and financial stability.
Engage Your Family
If you have a partner or children, consider involving them in the planning process. Teaching kids about budgeting and saving from a young age can set them up for a lifetime of financial responsibility. Regular family discussions about money can also help ensure everyone is on the same page.
Celebrate Milestones
Reward yourself for achieving significant milestones. Whether it’s paying off a debt, reaching a savings target, or sticking to your budget for several months, acknowledging your progress can boost motivation and make the journey more enjoyable.
About Us
After working as an advisor for a decade, Joel founded Unified Wealth.
Unified Wealth specialises in helping clients who are facing life’s big decisions.
Whether you’re contemplating your first property, growing your family or starting your investment journey we can help you focus on the simple steps to help you make your goals reality.
Our priority is making sure you have all the right information available to make the best possible decisions for you and those you love.
Our company values are:
Unity - We are most effective when we work together as a team
Trust - We are trustworthy and act in your best interests
Transparency - We are honest and communicate openly
Education - We are committed to lifelong education
At Unified Wealth our team is highly experienced and provides goal-based advice and solutions for a range of advice strategies.