Your Financial Check-Up: Take Control of Your Money
In Australia, while the quality of life continues to improve in many ways, the financial pressures on everyday households are increasing. Rising living costs, stagnant wages, high property prices, and economic uncertainty are pushing more and more Australians into financial stress.
This stress can creep into all areas of life. From restless nights spent worrying about the next bill, to strained relationships at home, to feeling overwhelmed and unsure about your future, financial pressure can take a serious toll on your wellbeing.
But here’s the good news, you don’t have to stay stuck. Just like your health, your finances can benefit from a check-up. Whether you're doing fine and want to stay that way, or you're feeling like things could be improved, a quick review can help you get clarity, control, and confidence back in your financial life.
Why a Financial Check-Up Matters
Many people avoid dealing with their finances because it feels too complicated, time-consuming, or stressful. Life gets busy with work, family commitments, and finances get pushed to the bottom of the to-do list.
But ignoring your financial health can lead to bigger problems later on.
A financial check-up helps you:
Identify areas that need attention
Set or review your goals
Reduce money stress
Understand your financial position
Feel empowered to take action
And it doesn’t need to take long. In just a few minutes, you can take stock of where you're at and decide if it’s time to reach out for support.
Common Signs You Might Need a Financial Check-Up
A proactive financial check-up can benefit anyone, not just those with money concerns. Sometimes the signs are subtle but important:
You're unsure how much you spend each month
You rely on credit cards to get through to payday
You don’t know how much super you’ve saved
You’ve got insurance but aren’t sure what it covers
You’ve never set a clear financial goal
You and your partner disagree about money
You avoid looking at your bank account
If any of this sounds familiar, it’s a good idea to do a financial check-up.
Try This: Your Financial Check-Up
This simple self-assessment can help highlight gaps or opportunities in your finances. It acts as a quick snapshot of how in control you feel.
Tick “Yes” or “No” to each of the following:
If you answered "No" to one or more of these, it’s a sign that a financial review with a professional could make a big difference.
What If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed?
For some, the biggest barrier to improving their financial situation is emotional. Uncertainty and confusion are common feelings and they can stop you from taking the first step.
But here’s the truth: there’s no judgment. Financial planners work with people in different stages of life, including many who are just trying start out by getting clarity and support. Whether you’re trying to build wealth, reduce debt, or simply to stop worrying about money, you don’t need to go it alone.
In fact, reaching out for help is often the most empowering step you can take. The earlier you act, the more options you’ll have and the more confident you’ll feel moving forward.
Getting Started: What to Expect When You See a Financial Planner
A good planner will start by listening and understanding where you’re at, what’s important to you, and what concerns you might have.
Typically, the first meeting will cover:
Your financial goals and lifestyle
Your income and expenses
Any assets or liabilities
Your superannuation and insurance
Any financial worries or questions
From there, they can help you create a financial plan tailored to your needs. That might include small changes now, medium-term adjustments, or long-term strategies depending on your goals.
Practical Tips to Improve Your Position
If you're not ready to meet with a planner just yet, here are a few simple steps you can take today:
Track your spending – Use a budgeting tool or check your recent bank statements to see where your money goes
Automate savings – Set up a regular transfer to a separate savings account, even if it’s a small amount each week to start
Review your subscriptions – Cancel unused memberships or services you don’t need or are not using
Check your super – Log in to your super account, check your balance, investments, and make sure your contact details and beneficiaries are up to date
Review your insurance – Ensure you have the right level of cover and understand what’s included
Have a money chat with your partner – Get on the same page about goals, budgeting, and priorities
FAQs – Financial Check-Up
Q: What if I’m not in financial stress do I still need a check-up?
A: A check-up isn’t just for emergencies. It can help you stay on track, optimise what’s working, and plan for the future.
Q: How often should I review my finances?
A: Ideally once or twice a year, and when there are major changes in your life (like a new job, having a child, or buying a property).
Q: What should I bring to a financial planning meeting?
A: Basic details like income, expenses, assets, debts, super statements, and any insurance policies.
Q: Is it expensive to see a financial planner?
A: Many planners offer a free initial consultation. Fees then vary depending on the service, but getting advice can often save you money in the long run and put you in a better financial position.
Q: I feel embarrassed about my finances, what if I’ve made mistakes?
A: Planners are there to help, not judge. Everyone starts somewhere, and taking action is the first step.
Taking just a few minutes to check in with yourself can make a big difference in how you feel and where you’re headed financially.
If you answered “no” to any of the check-up questions above, or just feel like you could be doing better, consider speaking to a financial planner.
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 are highly experienced and provide goal-based advice and solutions for a range of advice strategies.